96 head gasket

[toylover]

3.4 V6 unfortunately head gasket appears to be blown after only 115K miles.... sucks. Still need to do compression check but she blows a ton of white smoke, goes thru coolant and vibrates alot ( I think the one cylinder is now dead ie no spark b/c plug is fouled). Shall I research this recall I hear about or is it not worth it?

I am going to attempt the work myself and I am searching for a good step by step guide with lots of pics for my engine. Anyone know where one is? Thanks

[Brian R.]

There is a 2003 Tacoma FSM in the sticky thread at the top of this forum. It has a detailed procedure for removing and installing a head for your engine.

I suggest you contact a Toyota Dealer and attempt to get them to do the work and absorb the cost. See the following post regarding the TSBs that pertain to your situation, particularly TC99005.

If you do end up doing the work yourself, make sure you use Toyota head gaskets (I would replace both head gaskets at this time).

[Brian R.]

Make : TOYOTA
Model : 4 RUNNER
Year : 1996
Manufacturer : TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Service Bulletin Num : TC01031
Date of Bulletin: NOV 19, 2001
NHTSA Item Number: 627389
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary:

SUBJECT REGARDING HEAD GASKET REPLACEMENT.

Make : TOYOTA
Model : 4 RUNNER
Year : 1996
Manufacturer : TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Service Bulletin Num : TC99005
Date of Bulletin: MAR 17, 1999
NHTSA Item Number: 604869
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary:

SPECIAL SERVICE CAMPAIGN X01 INVOLVING REPLACEMENT OF THE CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS INSTALLED ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 3.4 LITER V6 ENGINE.

Make : TOYOTA
Model : 4 RUNNER
Year : 1996
Manufacturer : TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Service Bulletin Num : TC99002
Date of Bulletin: JAN 25, 1999
NHTSA Item Number: 603966
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary:

SUBJECT ON SPECIAL SERVICE CAMPAIGN X01 TO REPLACE THE CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS.