I am in the need of a new motor for my 97 Tacoma. Currently, it has a 4 cylinder 2.7 3rz in it. I will be replacing it with the same motor and have never performed a repair this extensive. I will have some help from friends that have all the necessary tools, and are competent mechanics but have limited practice with a repair to this scale. I am looking for any and all helpful information for this undertaking. I have 1 year left in school, unfortunately, the $3500 quote to have it done professionally just isn't in the budget. Any recommendations on helpful literature, videos or areas that I should research in better detail are appreciated.

 

While this is a large and daunting project, broken down into individuals steps makes it completely doable. There is a link in the Stickies above for the factory service manual. Read that. Many times. It will have the project broken down and every bracket, hose, and plug that needs disconnected listed.

 

I would pick up the Haynes manual aswell so you can look up the procedure and specifications, its nice to have the book on hand in a shop, you'll need a good quality ft/lb and maybe a in/lb torque wrench, and if its like the 4runner 3.4L you'll need 4' or more of 1/2" extensions to reach the bell housing to engine bolts, besides that and the exhaust bolts always breaking, everything is pretty self explanatory. If your AC still works, you can unbolt them from the block and tie it aside so you don't need to replace refrigerant and the receiver/dryer.