New poster here with a question please!!...

[blackjackdavey09]

Hi, I'm new to this forum and was suggested by a friend that I join because I have a question about a repair/fix on my 97 4runner. Any advice or knowledge is greatly appreciated, thanks!

I recently experienced a loud metallic 'clunking' noise when turning over the engine when the engine is cold, along with white smoke coming out of the tailpipe. Also my coolant gets low but didn't notice any moisture on the pavement.

Long story short, took it in to get diagnosed and they found a coolant leak and oil leak on the head gasket. They said they would recommend removing the head and have machined at a cost of $2600 not including tax/shop fees.

So...I don't know a lot about cars/repair costs. Has anyone here experienced something similar and does that quote seem legit? Would this be a warped head issue or a cracked head?
TIA!

 

[Singtoe]

Sounds like piston slap or valve tap.

I think your best bet is to find a used motor and have an Indie repair shop swap it out for you.

Rebuilding will cost more money if the connecting rods are bad.

The key to not spending a lot of money is to get as many quotes as you can get.

 

[coinball]

I think your best bet is to find a used motor and have an Indie repair shop swap it out for you.

+1

In my history of rebuilding Toyota engines, I'll put money on a rod bearing giving up the ghost (or maybe already has). Same thing happened on the 89 MR2 SC I restored and the 87 Supra T I had before that. BHG contaminated the oil which fubar'd the bearings. I built new bottom ends in both cases...but, that's overkill for a daily driver. Find a known good used motor and pay someone to swap it in for you.