I just finished a head gasket repair on my 88 4Runner, 3.0. It's the biggest repair I have ever done, but now it won't start. It turns over, I have fuel, and I know I have spark since it has back fired a few times and shot flames out the tail pipe. I think I might not be putting the distributor on correctly. Anyone had this problem? Any tips?

 

Backfiring would indicate the timing is off. Start there first.

 

[URL="https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f128/timing-adjustment-1988-1995-3-0l-v6-80332/"]just because you have spark doesnt mean it will start. i agree with 8083 make sure your timing is correct. also a quick search wouldnt hurt...... https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f128...3-0l-v6-80332/ check that page out.

 

i agree too, timing problem. sounds like the spark is retarded so it wants to fire when the exhaust valves are open. also be sure you got those cams lined up right, when i did my rebuild my passanger side cam was off 4 degrees, the whole bank wouldn't fire and it wouldn't start.