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1988 4Runner Engine Problem

Discussion in '1st Gen 4Runners (1984-1989)' started by jampard, Jan 7, 2023.

  1. Jan 7, 2023 at 10:27 AM
    #1
    jampard

    jampard [OP] New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 6, 2023
    Member:
    #30474
    Messages:
    1
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Jim
    Vehicle:
    1988 Red 4Runner SR5
    I've got a 1988 SR5 V-6 automatic trans 4Runner with a diagnosed head gasket leaking problem.

    It wouldn't pass the California Smog Test, and 2 shops couldn't figure out why.
    The 3rd Smog & Repair shop said their test determined that there is HC gas in the coolant which indicates a leaking head gasket.

    The repair shop labor cost around here is kind of high ($120/hr), so I'm trying to decide what to do.

    I guess that I could sell it as-is.
    I could have the heads replaced (rebuilt or new).
    I could replace the engine with a good used engine. Maybe a later compatible engine?
    I could have the engine rebuilt.
    I could replace the engine with a rebuilt engine.

    I would appreciate any advise to help me decide what to do.
    I've got about $2800 invested in it so far.
     
  2. Jan 7, 2023 at 10:42 AM
    #2
    2Toys

    2Toys Imperial Star Cruiser

    Joined:
    Jul 6, 2020
    Member:
    #15337
    Messages:
    1,080
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Gordon
    NorCal
    Vehicle:
    2019 4Runner TRDORP
    a few goodies
    How many miles on the vehicle? Is it the original engine?

    Depending on mileage, you could just have the heads redone. If you disassemble it yourself and take the heads to a machine shop, they will disassemble the valve train, measure for wear on those components, hot tank the heads to clean them and inspect for cracks. They also will make sure that the head to engine surface is perfectly flat, which is necessary for a good seal.

    Most likely, your valve seats and or valve guides are worn and will need to be dealt with (again, depending on mileage).

    Gas in the coolant is consistent with head gasket failure, but also be caused by a crack in the head.

    I'm sure that other members will chime in with expertise on your generation of 4 Runner.
     
    RumHamRunner73 likes this.
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