The head gasket problem on the 3.0 is multi-faceted. First, the expansion/contraction differences between the cast iron block and the aluminum heads causes movement between the mating surfaces,resulting in gasket abrasion. Second, torque values were incorrect for the heads. The heads are supposed to be installed using the torque/turn method, meaning the head bolts are sequentially torqued to a certain value,then torqued an additonal 90 degrees in sequence, then torqued an additional 90 degrees a second time. Apparently, the second torque turn was not done when these engines were (re)assembled. Third, the factory gaskets were faulty. Add those three items up, and it's amazing they ran long enough to get them off the ship.

Additionally, the heads will warp badly if they are not unbolted sequentially when replacing bad head gaskets. Even if they are unbolted properly, they will still warp .002"-.003" due to molecular changes. Once the heads are off, cleaning them with a buzz wheel will destroy them. The heads can only be cut .010" maximum to clean them up if the surface has been damaged.

Suggestions for anyone replacing head gaskets:
1.make sure the engine is torn down correctly.
2.make sure heads are not damaged while cleaning.
3.DO NOT reinstall heads without resurfacing.
4.make sure block deck is not damaged.
5.use quality gaskets. Fel-Pro suggested.
6.use new head bolts.
7.make sure heads are torqued correctly.

I obtained most of this information from a professional engine rebuilder specializing in Toyota engines. Hope it helps.

 

Hi and Welcome to the forum

Thanks for that info as every little bit helps out

 

Excellent write up Kerry and welcome.

All the things you mentioned are why I opted not to have mine repaired. Way to many stars to get in proper alignment. It was easier and provides more peace of mind to buy a new one.

 

Hey, that's some really helpful information! Does anybody know how much that would cost? For parts at least.

 

yup... those ol' 3.0 motors have an issue with blowin head gaskets
thats why toyota has a campaign for head gasket replacement

 

What about the 3.4L V6? Those are reliable aren't they? Or are they just as bad as the 3.0?

 

the 3.4L is waaaayyyyy better...
but we're getting off-topic...
all the info provided above is tremendously helpful

 

okay thanks, I just wanted to be sure the 3.4 was better than the 3.0. But back to the 3.0 is it just some of them or does every Toyota 3.0 have these problems?

 

Yes, some great points here. Good find Too bad its now in the wrong section.

 

Good point, maybe we need to start a new topic like 3.0 vs 3.4 or something, or just 3.0 troubleshooting if they don't already have one, I'm really new here, its cool to find all this info people share.

 

I am doin one now and lbr is bout 12.5 hours. It is usually cheaper to by the kit for this one. And not a bad idea to replace the timing belt and waterpump since ur in there pending on mielage toyota recomends there timimg belts every 90k up to u it is a little spendy but toyotas to me r worth it. and ty Kerry your imformation was very helpfull.

 

Doing one now. Ty for the very helpfull imo!..

 

Ummm...yeah..so I marked all the incorrect/inaccurate information in red.

Fair warning...I am the leading authority on this subject here. So if you would please RESPECT MY AUTHORITY!!!! Don't make me flood this thread with proof of the truth regarding these fallacies. I have it...TRUST ME I do!!!

This thread is BS...for the most part!

 

Holy zombie thread!

This thread has also been necroposted to TWICE. Thread went nowhere in 2003, big-time necropost in spring 2009 that went nowhere and now some hippy is all fired up about its accuracy in late 2011.

This thread won't die! Somebody please resurrect it in 2016 or so!

 

Does it matter which head goes on which side when doing a hg replacement after heads have been resurfaced

 

I am looking for some help. I have a bad valve or head gasket on number 3 in a 3.0.
I am going to put a set of heads I have from another motor just setting around on it what gaskets are the best to use Toyota,Fel-Pro,Mr Gasket?? I just want to do this one time if you know what I mean.I did this with a 22re and had to go back and get a Toyota one to fix it right didnt know if the 3.0 would be the same.

 

Just figured I would keep this thread going!

In my opinion if you're gonna replace one side you might as well replace both sides and always always always have the heads machined before you reinstall them, unless you just enjoy replacing head gaskets every 10,000 miles!!!!!

 

Here it is 2016 and yes my HG went. Just keeping the tread alive. Have to decide. Fix or drop rebuilt in. decisions decisions.