I have an exhaust leak on the pipe behind the manifold (1990 4Runner 3.0 SR5)that has a heat shield on it. Toyota say it will cost $900 to fix because they have to pull the engine to replace the pipe. I can't afford that, so I was thinkin of gettin headers instead. But after all is said and done it comes to about the same price w/ installation and the extra modifications req'd for V6's with auto tranny (Downey headers). I think this leak is affecting my mileage and would like to get it fixed in the CHEAPEST way possible. Anybody have any ideas? Should I just ignore it? Anyone know of any VERY cheap headers for sale? Or a better idea?

 

How handy are you with tools? The majority of that cost is labor, and unless I'm confused about how your motor is laid out, it doesn't require pulling the engine.

Other folks with the 3.0 will know more for sure.

 

$900!!
Sounds like a line of crap.

You didnt happen to have a Rolex on your wrist when you asked for a quote?

 

Well, it might not be a load of crap. If the 3.0 crossover pipe is anything like the 3.4, then you would have to pull the engine to get to it (assuming that is where the leak is). Even with a 1" BL, I could not get my crossover pipe off during my header install. So I just cut it like everyone said to do.

If this is indeed the problem, definitely go with a header system. You can just sawzall off the crossover piece.

I would get a second opinion. I don't think I have ever heard of a leak in a crossover pipe on a 2nd gen.

 

I would just get the header and install it yourself. Where are you located? If you live near any other members you might be able to get one of them to come and help you with putting it in.

 

Thats what I want is headers, but all the headers I've seen (Downey etc.)advertised talk about buying some kind of modification/adapter for 4Runners with auto tranny. Did any of you guys need this adapter? How much did it cost you guys to install your headers?

 

Did you actually see the hole or just hear it? I had what I thought was an exhaust leak in the manifold but it turned out to just be a little plate on the back of the engine (passenger side) that came loose. It ended up causing a sound like there was a leak until the engine warmed up.

 

I'm not too good at hearing exhaust leaks, especially when the truck sounds the same as when I bought it. Two different mechanics (one from the dealership and one from a "mom and pop" garage) said I had a leak at the rear of the engine. I had to have the truck on the lift and peer up under it to see the component they were pointing to. I don't have too many options, cuz I'm in a small town (Altus, Oklahoma) temporarily going to school (I live in Washington) and there is not too many shops. I want to get it fixed before I drive it back to Washington, but it looks like (because of the price) thats not gonna happen. I can't believe its so expensive to replace the stock setup, and going with an aftermarket is just as bad.

 

How much did the mom/pop place quote you?

 

The mom/pop place wouldn't touch it. They said that they are not getting into something like that. (I guess they were aprehensive about pulling the engine.)

 

I would think that a normal exhaust shop would be able to do something that does not intail pulling the motor.

If its just a small hole/leak a good shop should be able to weld something without having to replace everything.

Did you tell the mom/pop place what the stealership told you or did they come up with the same solution.

 

Holy Cow!!! There isn't a doubt that it is a PITA! Especially w/an Auto trans!!! With a manual, you could get away with it, but, here's your options:
1. Pull the engine
2. Lower the rear of the trans, meaning you will have to unbolt everything and angle everything down!
3. Grab a saws-all like mentioned!
There really is no easy way around it!
To pin point your leak if it is the x-over, grab yourself a spray bottle filled w/soapy water and start spraying, you'll find it!

Good Luck! You'll need it!

* Harry *

 

How bad is the actual sound? If it isn't bad enough to make you fail some sort of inspection (assuming you have some kind of annual inspection like we do here in MA) I would just drive it...

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it.. If it is broke and you are broke, don't fix it either.. "

 

The auto part store by my house sells(only $8) this tube of epoxy like material that is ment for filling cracks in manifolds(I dont have the name of it now but i will find out). So if your able to see the hole try to find this stuff and try it out. I've been meaning to get some for my rad.

 

I have a set of spare stock 3vze exhaust manifolds with the crossover pipe if you need it. I'll let you have them for cheap.
You can change it you don't have to pull the engine however I have a 1.4" body-lift it's alot easier to do with a body-lift.

 

Not a good idea...Carbon monoxide will probably leak into the passenger compartment. Of course, if enough leaked in, you wouldn't have to worry about getting any leak fixed. and then die.

I'm thinkin' there is an easier way...do at least a 1 inch body lift. Saw the old crossover off. Remove the manifolds if necessary. Remove the ends of the crossover. Have a custom muffler shop make you a new crossover that would NOT flow into the left exhaust manifold but would flow into a collection tube downstream. Bolt a cover plate over the old crossover opening in the left manifold. Maybe net a few ponies in the process. I've been considering this myself.