I read all about the Head Gasket campaigns and thats the only thing holding me back from buying this 4runner. I already had the VIN ran and it wasn't one of the recalled head gaskets BUT Ive read that alot of the non VINS recalls still had head gasket failure.

This 4runner only has 115k miles so toyota wouldn't do the head gasket campaign free anyways. My question is should I just get the 4runner anyways and chance it? I really don't want the head gasket to take a on right after I get it. Whats my chances I'll be o.k.? The 4runner is in great condition. I just don't want to shell out $2-4k for an engine swap or replace head gasket. This would be my main transportation.

I'd really appreciate your guys and gals opinions. TIA!

 

well, it really comes down to how the truck was treated. If it was taken care of and not abused, I doubt you would have a problem...

If its an auto, I would pass..

 

Timing belt has been changed and all fluids have been flushed. It is a 4x4 auto. Is there something up with the autos?

 

The autos where not so good in these trucks. They where undergeared from the factory with an extremly tall OD gear..

They tend to be worked harder and their engines tend to pop hg faster... They say the autos will take up to 30hp off the top...

 

Thats to bad. I wanted to find something my wife can drive also. Its hard to find such a low milage 95 4runner.

 

yeah definatly find one with a 5spd. the swap is a little annoying to do. plus mpg is a bit better with the 5spd. my .02

 

Well you could try it out. Go take a test drive, see if its too sluggish for you.

Most will agree if you gear the differentials lower, the auto is fine. Say 5.29 gears for 31" tires... That way you can actually get up to OD

 

PM me if you want to buy mine. I will tell you the detail. I did a swap a year ago and no 4x4 hi but work on 4x4 Lo. Also ebrake line snap so I use the gear to hold. I can get it replace. Damage on the rear driver side and tail gate, but got it fixed.

 

The autos are fine. It's just personal preference manual or auto.

I doubt if the auto's blow HG's faster.

 

It makes sence... A 4,000lb 4runner with a 150crank hp motor, sluggish autotragic and undergeared diffs...

Motor has to work harder to push it..

 

sure it makes sense...

 

Not to deter you phillie, but my 95 4runner AT blew it's HG at 115k....

 

I was thinking the re-gearing would be a good thing to do to help it out.

Marc did you do the new Head gasket install or did you pay? How miles do you have now?

 

I have about 70,000 km on both since HG replacement. Never had a problem before or after replacement.

Check this out https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f116...es-3vze-91607/

Also, many engines from different manufactures will blow head gaskets if their owners let them overheat.