3VZ engine what should be done at the 250K point?

[AKcharger]

Hi guys

I recently bought a '88 runner witht he 3.0 V-6. It runs well but has 256K miles on the clock, what are some recommendations for the engine (or trans) at this point. I don't mind putting $$ in the truck just want to be smart.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

Hi guys

I recently bought a '88 runner witht he 3.0 V-6. It runs well but has 256K miles on the clock, what are some recommendations for the engine (or trans) at this point. I don't mind putting $$ in the truck just want to be smart.

Wow, that's some miles. I'd certainly verify or change all the fluids and I mean all. If it's a liquid change it except for the windshield washer fluid If you can find evidence of when they were done well then just stick with the interval. I'd also be interested in when the t-belt was replaced. Due to age I'd look for the electrical grounding points and make sure they are clean and tight. I'd want a fresh fuel filter too. Make sure the fan clutch is in good shape. A loose or frozen clutch will cause trouble.

I'd inspect brakes and suspension looking for excessive wear and anything that might be dangerous.

T4R's of that vintage need starter contacts occasionally too.

If you DIY none of that is super expensive. High mileage formulas for the fluids won't hurt you at this point either.

Other than that enjoy!

 

[AKcharger]

Copy Sir, Thanks

I was going to follow you're plan as well as swap out the timing belt...cheap insurance! Does that V-6 have any known "weak points" to be concerned about? ( I guess I answered this my self since it has 250K)

 

[CJ3Flyr]

Head gaskets... At 250k it's very likely that it's on it's 2nd or 3rd set.

:cheers:

 

[AKcharger]

Head gaskets? I thought that was a 22R problem...copy I'll be on the look out for that.

You guys hear anything about the valves neededing adjustment?

 

[Indy4Runner]

I would have a compression test and then an engine oil analysis. These two things are going to tell you the condition of the engine better than anything else. Then I'd change the belt just in case and flush the transmission. Who knows when the last time the tranny fluid was changed.

 

[Uneek]

Head gaskets? I thought that was a 22R problem...copy I'll be on the look out for that.

You guys hear anything about the valves neededing adjustment?

Sadly, it's a 3VZ problem (too)... Toyota issued a service campaign in '96 or 97 for our '90 truck. The problem was the engine had an aluminum head and cast iron block. The two different materials had different thermo expansion rates and thus head gasket problems. Toyota sent our heads and block to a machine shop to make sure the surfaces were flat.

There's another thread where member(s) mentioned there are aftermarket gaskets which are either copper or contain some amount of copper so they're more durable.