Looking for Shop, new to WA (Whidbey Island)

[Enduro414]

I was wondering if anyone had any shops they recommend for basic maintenance to potentially tear down and rebuild the motor on my 4R. Recently moved to Whidbey Island, WA from South Texas in the beginning of June (never been to the PNW before). I am okay with driving a little ways for a good recommendation.

I was hoping to have some time and space to take a look at whats going on myself before my PCS orders but in typical military fashion that never works out. Plus half my stuff is still in storage and I don't have a garage to dig into it and store stuff I pull off.

 

[ch1966]

30+ years ago, NAS Whidbey Special Services had a nice auto hobby shop on base complete with lifts and a tool room.
You might look into that for basic maintenance.

 

[Enduro414]

Definitely looked into it. With all the covid protocols now. MWR has really restricted a ton of services. I really wish that stuff could still be utilized. -_-

 

[Devbot]

I'll ask around and try and find something. I live in the area - work in Everett and live in Monroe. Though I personally don't know of any shop specializing in Japanese, drifting is huge around here so there's bound to be a couple. Couple coworkers of mine used to be pretty involved in the JDM scene so I'll ask them come monday.

 

[Devbot]

So I asked a couple coworkers and they all told me they just take their cars to various importers or whatever import/specialty auto shops were close if they ever needed an inspection or to have serious work done. They didn't give me any names of places to go to, but did make a point to mention avoiding RHD Specialties in Seattle as they're very hit-and-miss. If you're looking for a new motor I think this would be a wise choice to look into as many shops will import crate motors alongside entire cars and you might find that a new motor from overseas might be a more economical opportunity than a full teardown/rebuild. If you're REALLY lucky you might find a shop with one or two in stock

 

[Kenrunner]

Shame you weren’t in the Bellingham area. My go-to guy is Steve Knowlton. He owns SK Auto on Iowa St. He likes Volkswagens, Audis, BMW’s, but he has a guy there that’s into 4Runners. I cannot speak highly enough of there honesty, knowledge and top-drawer workmanship. If you’re ever up here, maybe look them up.