My 99'4runner has a bad engine. Was going to swap out a low milage used engine. I'm told that by the serial numbers it has California style emissions and these engines are rare. ($). Was told that only difference was in the size of the exhaust manifolds.
My question is could I use any 3.4 engine in my truck and use my manifolds? Anyone ever do an engine replacement on this style truck?
Any help would be appreciated!

 

Could always just swap over the manifolds. There has to be more than just the manifolds that make is "California emissions"

 

Has anyone replaced 3.4 in a 4runner? I've never experienced anything so near to impossible! Can't get to all bolts on the access plate on the automatic tranny. Does the transmission come out with the engine? Anyone know of any tricks? Would like to leave the trans in.

 

Hey man,

The 3.4 really isn't that bad of an engine to pull... even with 4x4 (when compared to some front wheel drive V6 cars). It sounds like it could just be over your head. Find someone with a good toolbox and ask them for help. Even if they just come guide you with what has to be disconnected and how.

If you can get to some of the bolts on the access plate of the tranny than just put a socket and breaker bar on the crank pulley bolt on the front of the engine and turn it till you can get to the next bolt. I can't remember if there are 6 or 8 but if you take each out and then you spin it and see empty holes than you got 'em all. You will need some long extensions and at least one universal joint to get to the bolts holding the transmission to the engine. There is one at the 12:00 position that you pretty much won't see but can get to it with about 30" of extensions.

Good luck and do some searches to find more information. There are whole sections for what you are asking.

 

Thanks! What a nightmare!! Finally got swap finished. I connected the battery and will not turn over. Idiot lights go on but won't turn over. Its like its not in park. I moved gear selector (automatic) back and forth and put back into park but nothing. I even tried to push in the little white tab on the console to bypass it but still nothing.
Any suggestions?