idyota

My buddy just lost the motor in his 97 4x4 Tacoma, it’s the 4 cylinder. So he’s doing the should he have it rebuilt or try to find another one dance. My question is could he use the V-6 instead of the 4 cylinder? Would it match up to his transmission?

Thanks

fierohink

IIRC they bolt straight up. However you’ll need the harness and ECU as well.

idyota

I figured you would need the harness and ecu. Those easy swaps? That will help when looking for motors if he goes that route.

Thanks

fierohink

I don’t know your skill set or access to specialized tools like an engine hoist. So my assessment of whether something is easy or hard is irrelevant.

Even a straight forward like for like engine R&R is a 12+ hour service. Doing a swap to a different engine architecture involves intake and exhaust design, routing, and fabricating if you don’t have a complete donor vehicle. The fuel system and likely some custom hoses will be needed to convert 4cyl routing to 6cyl routing. As I mentioned before the ecu and harness will need to switch over. Motor mount location is the same, but shape is different. Most junkyard pulls don’t come with the starter and accessories since they can be sold separately.

In either case, a shade tree mechanic has their work cut out for them. It isn’t incredibly difficult, per se, it’s all just removing nuts and bolts. Staying focused, keeping notes and pictures of what went where, knowing what has to be removed in what order, etc. can make or break your success. Also allot more time than you think it will take.