Need a new engine for my 97 V6 4Runner...who can I trust? (Asheville, NC)

[Blakebo]

Hi everyone, my '97 3.4 V6 4Runner 220k has serious head gasket issues and I'm looking for a new engine. I don't know much about cars myself, but I've received some good counsel from a combination of local mechanics, a dealer, and this forum.

The dealer/mechanics want to charge me $5-6k for a Jasper engine installed. I like the idea of Jasper's 100k/3yr warranty, but that's just too much money.

Based on advice from members of this forum, I could grab an eBay engine (like this) for $1200 and then pay a shop to switch it in for $750.

My question is: How do I vet a trustworthy eBay dealer? And a trustworthy mechanic/shop? What are the right questions to ask?

Any advice or guidance would be much appreciated.

Blake in Asheville, NC

 

[LittleCaesar]

Hi Blake,

I cannot help you out directly but I do know that fellow member 93Toy lives in or near Asheville (he is a state trooper as well) and he may be able to aid you with someone local who can do the work, etc.

Just PM him.

I'd want a 6 month warranty from a junkyard for a used engine. Most are 90 days.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Blake, when you say "serious head gasket issue" what exactly happened? I have 3 3rd Gen 4Runners right now, 2 of them were suppose to have had bad engines when I bought them. It's not looking that way though as I dig into them. If the heads aren't cracked, it's probably worth it just to do the head gasket job. Or, if you want to show her a little extra love, do a top end rebuild.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Most shops will tell you new engine just because you have a lot of miles on your truck. Doesnt necessarily mean the bottom end is bad though. You'd be surprised easily you might be able to fix your 4Runner.

 

[zgensler31]

I was just in flat rock just outside of hendersonville over the weekend. My grandparents live there. Never thought to see if there were any members down there.

 

[Brilliant]

my brother bought a jasper engine and it was a mess. Had to send it back after installed and reinstall new one.

 

[93toy]

Blakebo- PM sent.