Seems like everyone gets a better deal than my experience. I bought a 2002, that had the check engine light removed, which of course I did not notice, that had a cracked head. yes I am an idiot. There was no coolant in the oil and it seemed to run OK.

I paid $3800 for rebuilt heads installed at a local Japanese specific shop. They said the bottom end looked pretty good when they opened it up. It had not been using any oil.

OP - I don't mind resurrecting my own post lol.

I still have my beloved 4R. I've had to put it on the back burner of decisions since I couldn't make one.
Although no decision has been made I can say that I've got a possible solution.
I also have a 99 SR5 that runs really well and may just pull the engine from it and drop it in my 01 Limited and install a SC.
I've considered engine swaps, diesel, rebuilds. Really a lot to consider so I think I'm going to do first thing first.
*Get the truck off the frame and take a clear overview to ensure the frame is in really good shape before committing to any engine work.
I've made this my priority since some light frame rust is visible and I want to be able to fix/restore and protect from any further damage if possible. If I find that the level of outcome doesn't meet my desire then I'll likely sell both to someone more committed and/or willing.

To be continued...https://t4r-1351852ontarioin.netdna-...ies/frusty.gif

OP - Back on the road!

I found a local guy who was willing to pull the 99 engine and drop it in my 01 for $1k.
Discovered the frame had been replaced by recall and is in better shape than I thought!

Bad News:
My left front Bilstein coilover has prematurely failed. So I'm shopping for new front coilovers to maintain the lift. Very dissapointed so hopefully I can find a brand alternative that will provide the same lift.

You know that an engine for these are 500 bucks, not really expensive at all

Congrats on getting back on the road and having a new frame. I'd be pretty pumped if my front shock blew but I got a new frame.

Nice!. I'm in Ohio and lost my 2001 to frame rust at 265k. So that's great news about your frame! That alone makes the repairs worthwhile IMO.

How did that person get a new frame under the recall? I live in Ohio and there is no recall for the 4Runner frame but the other trucks did get it.........

I can't speak to where the frame may had been replaced unfortunately.
I've listed both the 99 and 01 for sale.
I had the coilovers replaced with ICON and replaced the tires but due to other events... failed ac compressor and actuator motor, I'm done.
The frame must had been just well preserved for the year and possibly was owned somewhere south. As of now the rust has VERY quickly gotten worse as well.