Interference Engine?

[MacLaddy]

Hello all,

I'm curious if the 3.4 v6 in my 99 Limited is a non-interference engine? i am guessing that it is, but I am not seeing any definite answers in my searches.

I just picked this 4Runner up a couple of weeks ago with 120,000 miles. No maintenance records so I am not sure if it has been done or not, and I do not know if there is a way to tell.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Mac

 

[BrianSD_42]

not knowing what an interference engine is myself, I decided to look it up in the Book-of-Knowledge.

An interference engine is a type of 4-stroke internal combustion piston engine. Depending on the design of an engine, piston and valve paths may "interfere" with one another as a result of incorrect timing in their movements. (Such designs are also called "interference head" or "non-freewheeling", and include virtually all diesel engines. Conversely, non-interfering engines, such as the Mazda B engine, are called "free-wheeling" or "non-interference" engines.)

Interference engine - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Based on this, I don't think you have an interference engine since you have a v6.


This T4R thread talks about the topic as well.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/maintenance/232-interference-vs-non-interference-engine.html


:bat:

 

[MacLaddy]

Thanks for the reply, brianemc2_42, and for the link. I am familiar with what an interference engine is, I'm just not sure if my v6 falls into that category.

One of the main reasons for this post is I am considering taking my new toy for a six hour drive in two weekends, and I want to make sure it is roadworthy. It really is in great condition, and I have had no problems with it, but I would rather be cautious than shoot a valve through one of my pistons.

 

[02SE]

The 5VZFE (3.4 V6) is a non-interference engine. But the fact that it's a V6 is not what makes it non-interference.

You can have an interference or non-interference engine in any cylinder layout configuration, be it V, in-line, etc.

Since your engine is non-interference, you won't have pistons hitting valves, if the timing belt were to break. But the engine will stop running wherever you happen to be, which could be at a bad time or place.

If it's due for replacement, I'd do it just for the peace of mind of knowing it won't break at an inconvenient time or place.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

I agree with everything 02SE said. Dead on my friend.

 

[the great him]

the 3.4l 5vze motor is a non interference motor