2000 Tacoma: JDM Engine VS Head Gasket Replacement

Greetings,
Non-mechanic here. Follow up to earlier post. Have a 2000 Tacoma 4cyl 4WD with about 260k miles. Been talking with local mechanic re coolant loss issue =head gasket or cracked head. I've put a ton of work into the truck over the years including rebuilt transmission, front end work, and regular maintenance. Solid besides head issue.

Mechanic says engine replacement probably better option. JDM engine only option in my area. I've read mixed opinions on these: unknown true # of miles, unknown history/maintenance.
Also concerned about emissions. Do they produce more emissions than current original engine?
Estimate for total job: $7000

Estimate for head gasket job: $1600

Trying to avoid buying new/different truck.
What would you do?
Any thoughts greatly appreciated.

 

$1600 for a headgasket job sounds cheep to me.
I was under the impression that was a $3000 - $4000 job.
If you can get it done for $1600 and your motor has a good maintenance history, that's the route I'd go.

 

Toyota 2.7/2.4 L4L Remanufactured Cylinder Head - 8/96-8/00 2/3RZFE - Powertrain Products


Toyota 3RZF-E 2.7L L4 Remanufactured Engine - 8/99-9/04 - Powertrain Products

 

Much thanks O'Silver Taco; those look like a good option.

 

If you go the route of replacing the head gasket I would plan on the cost of a new head to be safe.