Need Toyota Help/Head Gasket?

Hi.. Well, to begin with the registration process asked what type of vehicles we had. We have a '90 4Runner & a '81 CORONA, I didn't have the option to pick this, so I chose the closest/Corolla. Which BTW, has 240.000 miles on it, and still going. However the real problem is my 4Runner,(154,000) about 3 months ago it went on a over-heating fit (as I call it) and then after 3 days, it stopped and has been fine since until this last Friday, and it started overheating again! :( So, this time I decided I needed to take it to the shop and they did a "Chemical Block Test" which tested positive for exhaust gases in the cooling system. Possible head gasket and or cracked cylinder head issue.
Well, unfortunately there is no recall related to this vehicle. So, the shop told me just to do the "Head Gasket" it's $1450.00. and there could be a problem underneath. But of course they can't tell me for sure until they tear it apart..

Anyways, is it more cost efficient/easy? to do this at home? What does it take? etc?

Thanks,

Kelly & Jimmy

Is it 3VZ-E 3.0 V6?
If it is don't do it at home.
When the head gaskets are removed sometimes there is no way to tell is one of them broken or not, and then you have to check the heads. Test is rather complicated. One thing is sure - do not drive that car - take it to the tech you trust, and pay but not 1500$ it is to much.

I'd be sure and double check that recall thing. The original headgaskets in the 3vze engine were known to fail too frequently and toyota did a recall on them. Not sure exactly what model years it covered, but they were doing a one time, free of charge repalcement. Call a dealer and have them run the VIN to see if the recall applies to your vehicle. Also, if you bought it used, they can tell you if it has already been done, as long as it was done under that recall. Also, don't be surprised if you get in there and find that the head gaskets are on the wrong sides...that happened with mine. They look just alike, but have different ports. Some "Joe Blow" did a head gasket job on that engine and got them on wrong before I ever got the truck. Didn't start overheating until the weather got warm.

Hi.. Well, to begin with the registration process asked what type of vehicles we had. We have a '90 4Runner & a '81 CORONA, I didn't have the option to pick this, so I chose the closest/Corolla. Which BTW, has 240.000 miles on it, and still going. However the real problem is my 4Runner,(154,000) about 3 months ago it went on a over-heating fit (as I call it) and then after 3 days, it stopped and has been fine since until this last Friday, and it started overheating again! :( So, this time I decided I needed to take it to the shop and they did a "Chemical Block Test" which tested positive for exhaust gases in the cooling system. Possible head gasket and or cracked cylinder head issue.
Well, unfortunately there is no recall related to this vehicle. So, the shop told me just to do the "Head Gasket" it's $1450.00. and there could be a problem underneath. But of course they can't tell me for sure until they tear it apart..

Anyways, is it more cost efficient/easy? to do this at home? What does it take? etc?

Thanks,

Kelly & Jimmy




For sure call dealer with VIN if V6 model and if it hasn't been replaced yet under Toyota's Headgasget/Head gasket replacement CAMPAIN then they will replace head gaskets free of charge....either way it is done I would strongly advise new timing belt,thermostat,water pump and any other hard to get to hoses that are easily replaced at time as well as knock sensor harness....best of luck and happy holidays

Sad to say those (some) 3.0 motors are time bombs. I had mine replaced (had no problem at the time) at 60,000 for free & at 120,000 it KABLUIED. The WHOLE motor had to be rebuilt at 120,000!!

180,000 miles ought to be interesting eh lol

Hi & thanks for your replies. My 4 runner had the water pump & timing belt (and a few other things) replaced in April/2004. And my vehicle hasn't moved since I found this info out at the Toyota Only Service place, it's been a week now. But I did check all the fluid levels the other day and started it and let it run for about 5 minutes so I don't lose the battery. But in that amount of time It didn't even warm up all the way.

Another shop that my mom goes to, told her $2200.00 and then a friend says that the shop he works at will do it for $450.00 PLUS parts? Does that sound more resonable? I wish this had happened at a different time of year that's for sure. I've got 2 or 3 more inquiries out with some people I know.

But, I just want it done soon and correctly. Right now I'm driving my mom's car to work 88' Honda Accord and my 4Runner is a little more roomier for me & my 3 sons :) That and my mom will want her vehicle back in 2 or so weeks...

I did check with Toyota with my VIN# and my 4 runner doesn't apply to the recall. BTW, it is a V6 also.


Thanks again..

Kelly

$450 plus parts sounds like a good deal to me.

To me 450 sounds too cheap and 2200 a bit too high considering it's not completly blown!

BE AWARE - Once apart the head might have to be sent to a machine shop & checked for cracks and warpage. Usually there are a few surprizes like that.

Mine (on a 94) cost me 3000.00 from Toyota but when it went it filled the crank case up with water (antifreeze) ruining just about everything.

The whole motor was rebuilt, head shaved, new bearings, a couple new pistons and on & on.......

I probably could have got it done a bit cheaper but the mechanic that did it, DID TONS OF THEM and at one time had 7 (so he says) in the garage at once......thats just how bad these things were when they all started getting some miles on.

I'd rather spend a few hundred more at Toyota then have something go wrong that was worked on by Joe Smoe that did one or two of them.

+ when I go to sell it, it sounds much more reassuring saying that Toyota did it rather then Malcom Yocum that lives down the road a bit.

Good Luck!!

-Huffa

180,000 miles ought to be interesting eh lol

:lol: For sure, that is if I keep it that long. Just hit 140,000 and I'm starting to get burned out on the wimpiness of the motor. Ashame because otherwise it's been a good SUV to me and still looks great!

http://www.alldata.com/TSB/60/90600850.html


Bulletins for 1990 Toyota Truck 4 Runner 4WD V6-180.5 2959cc 3.0L SOHC (3VZ-E)

General Recalls

TSB Number Issue Date TSB Title

1. SSCV06 DEC 97 Campaign - Cylinder Head Gaskets
2. SPAP9610 OCT 96 Campaign - Head Gasket Repair
3. SSCP01 JUN 93 Campaign - A/C Expansion Valve

Service Bulletins

TSB Number Issue Date TSB Title

1. EL008R-02 FEB 03 Keyless Entry - Transmitter Programming & Identification
2. PG027-02 DEC 02 Steering/Suspension - Ball Joint Inspection
3. BO010-02 MAY 02 Child Restraint - Seat Top Strap Installation
4. ST001-01 FEB 01 Steering Wheel Nut - Torque Standardization
5. BR004-00 OCT 00 Brakes - Pad Clicking Noise
6. AC002-00 JUL 00 A/C Compressor - Maintenance for Stored Vehicles
7. PG032-99 DEC 99 Year 2000 Readiness Disclosure
8. TC003-99 MAY 99 A/T - Fluid Interchangeability
9. AX006-99 APR 99 Antitheft - Changes For GBS Glass Breakage System
10. AX005-99 APR 99 Antitheft - Programing the Remote Control
11. AX004-99 MAR 99 Vehicle - Towing Guide
12. SS003-98 DEC 98 Accessories - Rivet Nut Tool
13. AC002R-98 JUL 98 A/C - R-12 Air Conditioner System Retrofit.
14. TC003-98 JUN 98 A/T - Fluid Type T-IV Replaces Type T-II
15. ST002-98 MAY 98 Steering - Gearbox Removal Precautions
16. EL002-98 APR 98 Interior - Cigarette Lighter Service
17. AC002-98 APR 98 A/C - R-12 Air Conditioner System Retrofit
18. EG003-98 APR 98 MIL ON - DTC P0441, P0446 (EVAP Control System)
19. EG002-98 FEB 98 Engine - Cylinder Head Installation
20. SS002-97 SEP 97 Brakes - Booster Push Rod Gauge
21. PG004-97 JUL 97 Body - Replacement Certification Labels
22. PG005-97 JUL 97 Body - Replacement VIN Plates
23. AC00297 MAY 97 A/C - Evaporator Odor
24. TC00496 DEC 96 A/T - Serial Numbers/Identification
25. BO01196 DEC 96 Interior - Carpet Cleaning Precautions
26. AC00396 NOV 96 A/C - Alternative Refrigerants and Retrofits
27. SU00296R SEP 96 Wheels - Balance Adapter Kit Update
28. AC00296 MAY 96 A/C - Compressor Maintenance for Stored Vehicles
29. ST00196 MAY 96 Steering - Gear/Wheel Removal With SRS
30. SU00296 MAR 96 Wheels - Balance Adapter Kit
31. ATRATB351 JAN 96 A/T - A340E/H Intermittent Engagement of Overdrive
32. ATRATB345 JAN 96 A/T - Checkball Wear
33. B095012 NOV 95 Seat Belts - Front and Rear Extenders
34. EL95004 NOV 95 Instruments - Wiper Motor Circuit Breaker Inspection
35. SS95-003 OCT 95 Engine - Tripod Support Bar
36. PA95001 SEP 95 Paint - Repairs On Polyurethane Bumper
37. BR95003 AUG 95 Brakes - Introduction of Shim/Fitting Kits
38. PG95006 JUL 95 Bolts - Standard Torque Specifications
39. PG95005 JUN 95 Emissions - Control Label Order Form
40. AC95001 MAR 95 A/C - Refrigerant Leak Detection Service Hints
41. POL9501 JAN 95 Emissions - Replacement Of Oxygen Sensor Under Warranty
42. DL94001 OCT 94 Steering - Spindle Bushing Noise When Cold
43. POL9418 OCT 94 Warranty - Brake Repair
44. AX94002 AUG 94 Body - Mud Guard Installation
45. SS94003 AUG 94 Tools - Toyota Checker Applications
46. SS94002 AUG 94 Wiring - New Harness Repair Kit Available
47. BR94004 JUN 94 Brakes - Pad Kits Now Available Without Hardware
48. PG94002 JUN 94 Emissions - Control Labels Ordering Form
49. BO94006 APR 94 Seat Belts - Extension Availability.
50. AC94001 MAR 94 A/C - Replacement Refrigerants Damage System
51. BR94002 FEB 94 Brakes - Cause and Repair of Vibration and Pulsation
52. ATRATB197 DEC 93 A/T - A40 Series O/D Won't Cancel Fourth Gear
53. ATRATB192 NOV 93 A/T - A40 Series O/D No Fourth Gear
54. AC93005 OCT 93 A/C - Compressor Oil Application & Quantity
55. AU93001 SEP 93 Cellular - Equipment Installation Precautions
56. BO93006 JUN 93 Seat Belts - Extenders Availablity
57. PG93002 APR 93 ID - Replacement VIN Plates and Certification Labels
58. ATRATB162 APR 93 A/T - RWD 4 Speed Rough 1-2 Upshift
59. AC93003 MAR 93 A/C - System Service/Inspection/Diagnosis
60. EG93002 MAR 93 Engine Control - New ECM Improves Driveability
61. SS93001 MAR 93 Suspension - Coil Spring Compressor Warnings
62. PI92008 OCT 92 Repair Manual Corrections - Ball Joint Specifications
63. PG92008 OCT 92 Suspension - Ball Joint Specification Correction
64. ATRATB130 SEP 92 A/T - A340H Slip/Chatter On Acceleration
65. TM92002R APR 92 A/T - Intermittent Loss of Overdrive
66. TC92001 FEB 92 Repair Manual Corrections - A/T Clutch Drum Clearance
67. EN91015 NOV 91 Fuel - Torque Revised For Fuel Line
68. PI91008 NOV 91 Emissions - California Emissions Information Labels
69. ATRATB078 NOV 91 A/T - How To Use A Pressure Gauge
70. POL9201 NOV 91 Emissions - Oxygen Sensor Replacement
71. EL91005 AUG 91 Wiring - Double Locking Type Connector 305 & 250 Series
72. EN91007 JUN 91 Ignition - Revised Signal Generator Resistance Specs
73. BO91014 MAY 91 Instrument Panel - Center Instrument Cluster Panel Paint
74. TM91009 MAY 91 A/T - New (C1) Accumulator Improves Shift Feel N to D
75. TM91010 MAY 91 A/T - Transfer Direct Clutch (C3) 'O' Ring Modification
76. EN91005 MAY 91 Engine - Oil Cooler Reduces Engine Temperatures
77. BO91005 MAR 91 Seat Belts - Extender Availability
78. WARR9118 JAN 91 Warranty - Discontinuation of Radio Questionnaire
79. PGI034R DEC 90 Ignition Lock - Key Code & Key Cutter Information
80. TRANS041 DEC 90 A/T - Column Shift Lever Binding
81. BRAK012 DEC 90 Brakes - New Drums Reduce Vibration
82. DRIV005 NOV 90 Drivetrain - High Pitched Noise From Propeller Shaft
83. TRANS039 OCT 90 A/T - Improved O/D Clutch Drum Oil Seal Ring
84. ATRATB028 OCT 90 A/T - Engine Vacuum Testing
85. WARR9053 SEP 90 Warranty - Bulletin Index
86. WARR9050 SEP 90 Warranty - Critical Parts Freight Reimbursement
87. WARR9051 SEP 90 Warranty - Parts Return Freight Charges
88. WARR9049 SEP 90 Warranty - Reimbursement For Specific System Checkers
89. WARR9052 SEP 90 Warranty - Tire Policy
90. BODY038 SEP 90 Interior - Creaking Noise From Rear Cab Mount
91. TRANS036 SEP 90 A/T - Torque Converter Mounting Bolt Caution
92. TRANS038 SEP 90 A/T - Valve Body Modifications
93. WARR9047 SEP 90 Warranty - PDS Claim Returns
94. WARR9046 SEP 90 Warranty - Original Part Number Information
95. WARR9045 AUG 90 Warranty - Labor Time Review Request Procedure
96. WARR9044 AUG 90 Warranty - Clarification of (PDS) Claim Information
97. WARR9042 AUG 90 Warranty - Guidelines For 800 Number Usage
98. WARR9041 JUL 90 Index For Dealer Support Materials
99. AUDO011 JUN 90 Antenna - Mast Replacement Procedure
100. ELEC005 JUN 90 Antitheft - Adjustment of Security System Sensitivity
101. WARR9035 JUN 90 Warranty - Canadian VIN Verification
102. WARR9037 JUN 90 Warranty - Claim Procedures for Floor Mats
103. BODY017R MAY 90 Seat Belts - Extender Availabilty
104. WARR9031 MAY 90 Warranty - Correction to Pocket Handbook
105. WARR9029 MAY 90 Warranty - Flat Rate Manual
106. WARR9030 MAY 90 Warranty - Parts Return and Retention
107. WARR9027 MAY 90 Warranty - Calrification of Powertrain Coverage
108. TRANS032 APR 90 M/T - Clutch Release Bearing Squeal
109. STR002 MAR 90 P/S - Pump Flow Control Valve Modified
110. WARR9026 MAR 90 Warranty - Pocket Handbook Available
111. TRANS030R MAR 90 A/T - Reduced Engagement Time Lag From N to R
112. WARR9023 MAR 90 Warranty - Coverage Wall Chart
113. WARR9019 FEB 90 Warranty - Special Operation Code Flat Rate Manual
114. WARR9018 FEB 90 Warranty - Date of First Use Update Form Required
115. ENG019 FEB 90 Engine - Connecting Rod Tightening Precaution
116. WARR9017 FEB 90 Warranty - Revised Vehicle Identification Number Adds
117. ATRATB9002006 FEB 90 A/T - Choosing the Right ATF
118. WARR9016 JAN 90 Warranty - PDS Expense Policy Change
119. BODY027 JAN 90 Exterior Trim - Running Boards Bent
120. PGI014R DEC 89 Vehicle - Specifications
121. WARR9015 DEC 89 Warranty - Policy and Procedures Manual
122. WARR9011 DEC 89 Warranty - Mufflers, Shocks, Struts & Strut Inserts
123. WARR9013 DEC 89 Warranty - Activity Report
124. WARR9012 DEC 89 A/C - Remanufactured Compressor Serial Numbers
125. WARR9010 DEC 89 Warranty - Flat Rate Manual Video
126. HEAT008 NOV 89 A/C - Condenser Damage Warning
127. PNT001 NOV 89 Paint - Codes & Cross References
128. BODY024 NOV 89 Windows - Servicing Solar Energy Reflecting Glass
129. TRANS022 NOV 89 Transfer Case - Transfer Chain Case Seals
130. WARR9005 OCT 89 Warranty - History Available Over TDN System
131. WARR9004 OCT 89 Warranty - Radio Debits
132. PGI018 OCT 89 Vehicle - Maintenance Schedule
133. ATRATB8930 OCT 89 A/T - Math Part II
134. TRANS016 SEP 89 A/T - Torque Converter Mounting Bolt Procedure
135. WARR9001 SEP 89 Warranty - Flat Rate Manual Operation Codes Update
136. ATRATB8927 SEP 89 A/T - Twenty Steps To Successful Repairs
137. PGI016 SEP 89 Igniton Lock - New Key Cutter Information
138. AU006 AUG 89 Audio - Unit Identification Number
139. ATRATB8923 AUG 89 A/T - Math Formulas Part I
140. TRANS006 JUN 89 A/T - Transmission Oil Cooler Flushing
141. PGI015 JUN 89 ID - VIN Plates and Certification Labels Replacement
142. WARR8918 JUN 89 Warranty - Flat Rate Manual Available
143. SUSP003 MAY 89 Suspension - Rear Leaf Spring Squeaking
144. WARR8916 APR 89 Warranty - Genuine Toyota Motor Oil Available
145. ENG002 FEB 89 Emissions - Auxiliary Air Valve Modification
146. ATRATB8754 SEP 87 A/T - Front Bushing Wear
147. ATRATB8748 AUG 87 A/T - Slipping or No-Shift/Metal Sealing Rings

Hey, I'm just wondering what the outcome on this was. I'm going through some similar issues with my truck right now.

Do NOT drive it if you even think the head gasket is compromised! This just happened to me on my birthday!
I am just now getting my motor back together. It was old and tired even though it had a "head gasket replacement" somewhere in its life time; it looked like a complete engine but no proof.
No problems other than an ominous clack of a rod bearing.
So here's how it happened:
Went into Safeway shopped for about a half hour came out to start the truck, nothing just a click of the starter, long story short the cylinder was in a vacuum state and sucked water into the cylinder, causing a hard hydraulic block, no symptoms prior, finally got it started but there were HUGE white clouds of steam out the exhaust then the #1 rod broke into three pieces and knocked a 4 inch hole through the side of the block. :confused:
Doing the work myself machine shop was $2200 for a short block and one junk yard head and other parts, gasket kit and everything will be just under $4000!
Knock sensor, Knock sensor wire, Spark plugs, Oil pump, Thermostat, Timing belt adjuster pulley, Timing belt idler pulley, Water pump, 16 Head bolts, Timing belt, Timing belt adjuster pulley spring, Injector cleaning, don’t even think about putting that nasty plugged up #1 valve cover on your new motor, and those fuel rails that have been rusting while you’ve been talking to the machinist and the Toyota parts personnel, who BTW know you and your family members on a first name basis. :screwy:
Did I mention that the knock sensor is a $165 peizo electric device that will turn your V6 into a gutless wonder if it’s bad. Then the stripped threads in three of the holes on the head from the junk yard. Oh yeah if your adventurous and bored do it yourself I can GAURUNTEE you will learn a lot. Oh have you priced all the SST’s you will need, hint if you can weld make them yourself.
Anyway the design of the head vs. block leaves this motor with a propensity to scuff the gasket into oblivion quite often.
Toyota never did a recall they called it a “service campaign” and they stopped doing them a few years ago.
Sell it now and pick up that big block 427 Chevy Nomad your grandpa tells you about all the time.
Good luck

Quote - "Did I mention that the knock sensor is a $165 peizo electric device that will turn your V6 into a gutless wonder if it’s bad."

Could that be why mine pings all the time (very, very lightly) even using high test & different brands of gas? It's always been that way though - from new.

Not likely. Knock sensors don't usually fail. It is the wiring or connectors if the knock sensor isn't functioning. Alot of pinging is more likely due to carbon build-up in the combustion chambers. Put in some top end cleaner or the equivalent and see if that solves your problem.

http://www.superhonda.com/tech/carbon_cleaner_treatment_how-to.html