'95 4 runner gasket

[psp]

Well my first post here...hoping that somone can offer some insight or suggestions. My '95 4 runner with 214,000km was recently in to the Toyota dealership for some diagnostic tests as my vehicle when in drive at low speeds and at stoplights would rattle. The oil gage would drop to a very low level then when driving at higher speeds the oil level idicator would be back to normal range again and no rattling.

Oil levels were fine! after many checks and days! Diagnositic test seemed fine at the dealershiop but some coolant was noticed on plug #6 apparently giving the indication of a gasket problem; however, coolent levels are fine and have never been a problem!

The dealership is recommending that i replace the gasket as that is "likely" the issue they said ...for an estimated $1700cdn labour + parts+ tax.....i simply cant afford that! having just re done the brakes.

Any suggestions comments experience with this issue? I kno w nothing about replacing anything like this myself so that it out of the question.
Is this a type of problem that can be monitored by just checking oil levels and coolant levels periodically or does it need to be done asap to save the engine????

thanks
psp

 

[mikes4runner]

Was the recall done to this truck.....there was a head gasket recall.


call the dealer with your VIN #


Mike

 

[Junior]

If I were you I would not listen to them and just keep checking the levels. Get a second, third and fourth opinion. In my experience service and costs and diagnostic is different at EVERY dealership in the Northbay area so its probably that way in your area too if you don't live around here. If it ain't broken down, don't worry about it! Its a 95, be lucky its still getting you from point A to B and still an enjoyable vehicle to have.

I also have a 95 and if someone told me that rediculous price I'd be letting them eat my dust from the rearview.