build project

[MacGyver1979]

I just acquired a 95 4runner, power windows sunroof leather and all that, the guy that sold it to me said that he thinks that the thermostat is bad, being that he lived 5 miles away I told him to bring it to me and keep it cool.
well now the top of the radiator is split wide open.
I plan to do all the work on this project myself, and was looking for opinions on what I should do or check before proceeding with the thermostat and radiator change?

 

[KidVermicious]

The V6s are known for blowing head gaskets. I wouldn't surprised if that's the cause of the overheating instead of a thermostat.

In any case, once it's overheated that badly, it's safe to assume that the gaskets and the thermostat are both shot. If you actually have decent compression and the bearings in the bottom are ok, I'd plan on new head gaskets on each side, and do the timing belt/water pump/etc on your way. If it overheated bad enough that the bearings are damaged or the compression is marginal, look into a 5VZE 3.4l swap before you spend any money - a motor upgrade might actually save you some coin in the long run.

 

[MacGyver1979]

is their any way to tell if the head gaskets and bearings are shot. before changing the thremostat radiator and waterpump? it still runs, oil looks fine, and only has 140k miles on it.

 

[KidVermicious]

is their any way to tell if the head gaskets and bearings are shot. before changing the thremostat radiator and waterpump? it still runs, oil looks fine, and only has 140k miles on it.

A compression test would be a good idea. A leakdown test would be better. You'll have to pull the oil pan to check the bearings though.