1993 3.0 3VZE 4runner Head Gasket HELP!

[manzach123]

Hi,

I'm looking at changing the head gasket on my 4runner by my self. Is it really that hard to do? What should I look out for? Also Do I need to buy a head gasket kit like this one:

88-95 3.0 L Toyota T100 4Runner V6 3VZE Head Gasket Set on eBay.ca (item 360159038790 end time 25-Mar-10 17:21:27 EDT)

or do I only need to buy a head gasket alone.


Thanks!

 

[jam864runner]

first and foremost why are u changing it i know stupid question but u need to check for warpage on the head and block, just stop and ask urself if u have the mechanical skills and tools to do this if u have done a headgasket successfully before then you shouldnt have a problem i always mark,mark,mark take pics when im doin somthing unfamiliar that away u always have somthing to lean on when putting everything back together, good luck man not too hard to do

 

[90toytruck.]

this can take time and there is alot that needs to come off then go back on make sure you get your heads machined and get a chilton book for all the proper torque specs .make sure you get a complete head gasket set that comes with everything you will need . head gaskets, plunum gasket,intake and exhaust , valve seals , make sure it has all and while your in there check the wiring going to the knock sensor .

 

[manzach123]

Thanks guys. I don't think I'm going to do the job. I'm selling the truck. Its just not worth the money, as well as the time and tools. I would put the 3.4 swap into it but the money is not there for it.

Thanks guys

 

[fishrod]

Does the Chilton book tell you to re-torque the heads after 500-1000 miles???

I just had my head gasket done and dont want it blowing up again in a years time!!!

 

[90toytruck.]

Does the Chilton book tell you to re-torque the heads after 500-1000 miles???

I just had my head gasket done and dont want it blowing up again in a years time!!!

yep it do

 

[Joehert]

I had a shop near by my house do the head gasket and they used spring bolts. You should check to see if your shop used these, because they don't require any retorquing.:nerd:

 

[bshinn]

Nothing in my FSM, about re-torquing. The factory bolts are "torque to yeild", meaning they strech when they are torqued properly, & shouldn't need to be touched.

 

[Csmithbass]

Hooray head gaskets

I’m tearing into my 95 3.0 V6 now for a head gasket... looking at doing water pump/timing belt along with it

Any and all advice appreciates this feels like a big step after replacing the Starter motor last month or two

 

[kc15842]

I’m tearing into my 95 3.0 V6 now for a head gasket... looking at doing water pump/timing belt along with it

Any and all advice appreciates this feels like a big step after replacing the Starter motor last month or two

Do you have any CEL codes?
Lots to check when you're in there. Did you do a compression check? It would be nice to know the condition of the cylinders and valves. The electrical connectors will be in tough shape and are now brittle from years in the heated engine compartment, take your time removing or you'll be replacing, the good news most are available.
Hopefully you said no to CEL but you still may want to replace the knock sensor cable when your in there.
Get ready its a pain in the but motor to work on (IMO). all kinds of fun, one item is the timing gears. Look carefully at the cm shaft there is a tool flat for a wrench to hold the shaft when loosening the bolt to remove the gear.

When removing the valve covers be careful, there are little bushings for each bolt. Don't lose them.
Remember to chase all threads especially the aluminum heads. You'll most likely need lots of helicoils to fix the prior owners stuff. Use Toyota gaskets

Have fun

 

[Brother.Seht]

Be prepared to spend 20-24 hrs on it if it's your first time doing anything like this. Second time I did it it only took 16 hrs but still a long time. Also, I had an issue with my water pump leaking after the repair because although I did drain the radiator, there was still antifreeze in the block that ruined the gasket as I was reassembling. Overall a fun project though!