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2000 Tacoma: JDM Engine VS Head Gasket Replacement

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by jessejsalmon, Jan 9, 2024.

  1. Jan 9, 2024 at 12:15 PM
    #1
    jessejsalmon

    jessejsalmon [OP] Active Member

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    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.
    A1FFA892-C31C-4EE9-936F-137733D91530.jpg
     
  2. Jan 9, 2024 at 4:33 PM
    #2
    Cucvfan

    Cucvfan Well-Known Member

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    $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.
     
    Jakerou likes this.
  3. Jan 9, 2024 at 11:58 PM
    #3
    O'Silver_Taco

    O'Silver_Taco Well-Known Member

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    3rz to 2Rz bebuilt block and new heads
  4. Jan 10, 2024 at 9:13 AM
    #4
    jessejsalmon

    jessejsalmon [OP] Active Member

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  5. Jan 10, 2024 at 5:34 PM
    #5
    tacoman2001$

    tacoman2001$ Well-Known Member

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

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