So i picked up a 88 4runner but the engine is locked up. The head or head gasket went out on it and it was parked for 7ish years with water and coolant in the oil pan and i have a few questions. I want to keep cost down and it will mainly be used for going to work in the snow and maybe so light off roading

1. Rebuild current motor it would be the first engine i have rebuilt

2. Swap it do i stick to a 22re or a different engine like the 3.4 or maybe a diesel someone suggested a tdi swap i like the idea of better fuel mileage

3. The windows on the removable top are they replaceable or do you have to replace the entire too one of mine is rusted badly

4. Good places to look for parts for them i need some odd ball stuff like rear seat belts mine were shredded by mice and i cant seem to fine a rear window track and motor assembly my is not working just clicks but wont move

Im sure there is more but thats all i can think of right now

First of all, congrats on scoring a 1st Gen! I have an '88 myself, just finished restoring it. I've had mine for 14 years, and I work for Auburn Toyota as a parts back-counterman. Been there for 18 years, so here's my two cents...

1 & 2) Stick with the 22RE. For the uses you described, the 22RE will be more than adequate, and a 3.4 swap can be VERY expensive. The 22RE, when properly maintained, is near bullet-proof. Just be sure to use metal timing chain guides when you rebuild. I'd also hope you know to avoid the 3VZE 3.0 V6 at all costs, lol...

3) The rear windows are replaceable. Mine was stolen back in 2010, and they broke one of those windows. I bought the entire left side window assembly from a wrecking yard for $50.

4) 90% of parts for these are discontinued, so wrecking yards and EBay are good sources. There's an Ebay seller called The 4Runner House who has different stuff in & out. You can try Yota Yard - Toyota and Lexus Salvage Yard as well.

Hope this helps...

Voltan is right, ALLOT of the neccessary parts are discontinued. I really needed all the weatherstripping and was only able to find the doors. The rest is discontinued, good luck

ok thank you for the information so now i have a little direction lol i can start saving how hard is it to rebuild a 22re can someone who has never done it before pull it off if so are there any cant do it with out tools other than a torque wrench.