Leaky/Cracked Head, Considering Engine Replacement

[Slice]

Hi All,

I have a 2002 4Runner with 234k mi with either a cracked head or leak in gasket, I’m just assuming a cracked head.

The truck is in great shape inside and out otherwise so I would hate to put it up for a cheap sale.

I’m estimating it would cost me around $500 to fix myself if I don’t find any other problems and that would get me back to a motor with 234k mi.

Now I see these JDM motors on ebay from $900-1300 and I’m intrigued. From what I read I can ‘replace’ my California engine with one, 5VZ-FE with a 5VZ-FE. From the posts I have read it looks fairly straightforward, what other costs should I be anticipating? How much tougher is it to replace the motor vs change the head gasket/repair the crack (or replace the head)?

I also see a local motor for $1450 out of a 4runner with 136k mi. Local motors seem to be more money with higher miles than a JDM, this one seems more reasonable than others I have seen. Is there a benefit to a local motor over a JDM with fewer miles?

This whole thing seems like a big task for me but my neighbor has done it on a 1st gen and a buddy of mine is a great mechanic and will help. What do you guys with experience think?

 

[ILRunner98]

I would plan on buying a cylinder head and head gasket kit and do that for $500. Way easier than pulling the motor imo. If this happens to mine (i have 213K) i plan on getting two new heads and fixing it because you never know what your getting when buying things online. To me its too risky to spend that much on an engine you have little to no history on it.

 

[MONTYMTB]

If the heads are cracked - FYI: Japan Engines
Not cheap, but they're new. Just had a pair put on mine with 382k, running great so far.

 

[Slice]

Probably good advice, thanks guys. Im still curious about JDM engines, I've searched but only come up with people who have put them in and then run great, and the thread dies after a few k mi. I haven't seen one where someone says it blew up after X mi or got screwed, nor have I seen one where someone has posted an update after 100k mi.

If I do go the head route I don't think I will spend money on something new, but I very much appreciate that link.

 

[Slice]

If the heads are cracked - FYI: Japan Engines
Not cheap, but they're new. Just had a pair put on mine with 382k, running great so far.

That's an awesome number of miles by the way. For the past 80k or so I have told everyone I want to see my runner hit 300k. Thanks for the link.

 

[BrianSD_42]

I have the JE heads (actually made or at least distributed in USA) and they are running strong. It has been 3 years and 31K miles so far.

Be sure to use REAL Toyota/OEM head gasket and materials. I have heard that the Toyota gaskets are the only ones that will stand up over time and not fail.

You can buy the heads by calling them on the website. You can get the gaskets, new bolts and other parts you will need from a Toyota dealer at 25% off here:

Camelback Toyota Online Parts (call them and write down part #s, then order online)
Camelback Toyota Parts - Genuine OEM Parts - Free Shipping


JE Heads -----> Japan Engines


:lookout: