I finally ended buying a used running engine for $1000. Truck salvage border patrol drug seizure (I live in San Diego). These 2.7L 4cyl are sooooo hard to find. Did not take mill block route as I'm too much of a noob. Even swaping this engine should be entertaining enough.
"Noob engine swap...
The original problem was intermittent overheating.
Bought car at 96k and ran SUPER no issues til 124k.
I changed the coolant once around 110k. I live in SoCal.
Then i noticed coolant missing. Noticed white smoke at start. Car ran rough at start then white smoke went away after 10-15min...
I've pulled engines before 3 times - lonnnnng ago -- 68 Mustang, 67 Chevy truck, and lastly a VW bug (ok that doesnt count), and a I agree I'm a bit sheepish to do again.
If I do this again, I'd go with same 2.7L 3RZ as easier.
Someone suggested pulling *with* the trans attached.
Very sad story. Apparently not all Toyota's are "bullet proof."
My friends are shocked. I really loved this car and want to keep it.
I bought a 98 4Runner 2.7L with 96k.
I replaced oil and coolant regularly.
Ran great for for 25k then blew head gasket.
Mechanic found that engine block (not...
