'92 blown engine? Plz help!

[m_meadows]

My husband said the engine is blown and that it's junk (yes, he hates 4Runners). I wanted to get some other owner's take on it before I try and sell it as I LOVE my truck and do not wanna get rid of it...

Here's the thing: three years ago when I bought it, the valve lifter was tapping. I never got around to it, so when my boat slammed into the back of my truck in May, the lifter stopped tapping! I drove it a few more months (it was REALLY, REALLY, rough riding, too) until I noticed the oil gauge wasn't really moving too much. I then saw and smelt that there is now gas into the oil. Unfortunately I could not get a hold of my husband at the time and just went on my merry way to where I was going...160 miles later!
My husband told me the engine was blown, the oil rings are shot and all that jazz. So it's been sitting for a few months and he wants it gone.
Anyone have any suggestions? Possible "easy" fixes?
I'm pretty sure it's not the head gasket (replaced last year with the re-call) but I'm not a mechanic and neither is my husband.
DOES NOT SMOKE
does not overheat
Please help!

 

[turboSR5]

I'm afraid there is not going to be a quick fix for this problem. The easiest thing to do would be new rings/bearings. But since you have to take the whole thing apart to do that it just makes sense to get the block machined and rebuilt.

 

[SUBTEGRAL]

Complete re-build baby ... sorry.

I think she might want to look into buying a new small block (or one with very little CERTIFIED mileage on it) and having it installed ... anyone have a cheaper idea?

 

[SjamesT4R]

Best bet would be to say goodbye unless you or your husband is a mechanic that can take on an engine rebuild or replace.. because the cost of having a new motor replaced plus labor is going to run you more than just getting a new vehicle.. If it was myself I would pull it all apart and rebuild it if you loved it so much.. another option would be to part it out on craigslist and sell the windows/glass ,alternator, doors, tail gate, roof rack, starter, hoses, clutch fan, radiator, power steering pump, ac until all together, running boards, wheels and tires if good, interior pices, seats, carpet, steering box, intake w/injectors and the cylinder heads

 

[SUBTEGRAL]

Yeah! tear it up and sell it for every cent you can get!

the cost of having a new motor replaced plus labor is going to run you more than just getting a new vehicle.

You sure? seems like it could get done (by getting a small block installed) for not much more than maybe $2,000 if she finds the RIGHT shop.