97 Tacoma 3rz, 4 cylinder 4wd. 280k







so I’ve had great luck with old 22res, but bought this lemon Tacoma basically for too cheap and it’s got problems. Basically need it to run now to get home then sell cheap. :/


Firstly safety check found block sealer in the oil. I haven’t gotten it to overheat, but weepy or blown head gasket could be culprit. Drove the last 600 miles with no issues.

CEL has been throwing out codes for misfire on pistons 1&3. I changed spark plugs and wires before this dying issue, CEL still on.

Trying to drive back to Denver from LA (where bought) on second day it just died on a hill? I lost power in 4th then downshifted and by the top of the hill it was off. Didn’t shake or change noises, turn on dash lights like crazy. The CEL turned off when it died and now battery light is on?

I can get it to turn and all electronics are on, I just can’t get it to start.

I hear an inconsistent arcing sound on right side of motor. I reconnected the ground from the battery because it was poor, but no use. I thought the ticking could mean fuel injectors are bad (and also part of misfire code, no mechanic has felt it misfire).

fuel pump possibly? It’s hot as hell where I am (Cisco, Utah).

If anyone has suggestions on fixes that aren’t a head gasket fix or engine swap, I’m not gonna do on this rusty frame.. please let me know. Thank you for yr knowledge