Hey Guys,

I just had my R150 trans rebuilt and now I am debating on what to do about my motor, should I rebuild the 3VZE (is it worth it, where do I buy the parts?) Should I swap it? What should I swap with and where can I find one.

 

if you can find a good price donor or 5vz i would go with the swap, but if you cannot then rebuild the 3vz.

 

It all depends on how much the truck is worth to you.

 

A lot depends on the condition of the engine. If you are only doing the top end of the 3VZE and doing everything but the machining work yourself then your probably looking at $500-$800 depending on what quality parts you use and what you replace. If you are doing a full rebuild expect to pay $2000 and up for parts and machining. The 3VZE is not a motor to learn how to take a engine apart on (leave that to the SBC and 6 banger jeeps). If you can find a strong 3.4 swap for a good deal that's a good way to go IMOP.

 

3.4 donor its the way to go

 

Do you guys know of any reputable suppliers that I can purchase a 3VZE or 3.4 from?

 

What's your budget?

 

I know ill be in quite a bit but budget isn't a huge problem just yet, id like to be under 3k if possible, I do have a brand new 5 speed transmission in it and really didnt want to have to get rid of it after the hours spent on the rebuild.

 

You can use your current tranny. It will bolt up to the 3.4

 

Yeah I would find a junk yard 3.4 for $1000-$1500 with a warranty. To do a full top to bottom rebuild on a 3VZE your going to be in it close to 3K.

 

Will the uear of the 3.4 make a difference at all? I found one from a 98 Tacoma 5spd 4x4 for 800 but I was unsure if the year would make a difference at all.

 

If you want to do a 3.4 swap you need to start reading the swap threads. There is a lot more to it than putting one engine in the place of a different one.

You need a matching ECU, harness, and accessories. It is easier if you can buy a half-cut so you have all the parts.

 

You're right, I went through a few threads and videos on this swap and got a little taste of what I needed which also answered a lot of my questions, I've already started looking for a 3.4 that isn't trashed but im having an interesting time finiding one with a matching ECU.

 

start looking on craigslist for a beat up 4runner, t100 or Taco, Also its rare to find a great deal at a junkyard, they will almost never sell you the front clip or the whole vehicle and if they do the price would be ridiculous.

 

Not doubting anyones skills rebuilding a motor, but in my opinion it is usually a better idea to find a low mileage used motor that has not been rebuilt. Of course, low mileage and mechanically sound isnt always easy to find. This is even more so my opinion when it is in regards to a 3VZE. Id buy a used one in good shape, take care of all the little stuff while its still pulled, throw it in and forget about it. (Unless you can swap the the 3.4).

 

I agree. The 3VZE is a pain to rebuild and if not done correctly it will have a short life.Another reason why a low milage 3.4 may be the way to go.