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Engine problems - input please (long)

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by 2toys, May 16, 2009.

  1. May 16, 2009 at 6:45 PM
    #1
    2toys

    2toys [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I've been having a problem with a misfire. Been getting 300, 301 and now 303 codes. I've had a Toyota authorized mechanic tell me that it appears to be a bum valve. Compression test showed Cyl#1 120 (iirc) with the others 170-180. (#1 went up to 135 or so with oil added.) The problem is deteriorating and now the engine is stumbling noticeably. I've done the seafoam trick a couple times, and the problem continues.

    Vehicle is 01 with about 130k, I'm the 2nd owner.

    So, it seems my choices are:

    a) valve job and hope for the best ($2k est from above mechanic, 10 hrs work).

    b) replace the head ($500 ebay + labor).

    c) whole new engine (Recycler $1200 rebuilt & installed, price yet to be verified).

    Also note that I have a warrenty (amerigard) on power train, but I will likely only be re-imbursed at best and the work will likely have to be done by dealer.

    I can also likely get a valve job done for much less (the garage around the corner deal). And I might even be able to replace the head myself if I could get a friend or two to lend me a hand (which I get do with some pizza/beer), but I've never ventured beyond replacing a clutch in the past.

    I'd like input on my problem and maybe a choice I've missed.

    Frankly I'm leaning to swap out head.

    PS, I'll likely get another opinion Monday and take it to another Toyota dealer.
     
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    #1
  2. May 17, 2009 at 9:47 AM
    #2
    EnolaGaia

    EnolaGaia Well-Known Member

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    Which engine - 3RZ or 5VZ?

    I tend to think you should be good with a lower-priced valve job, assuming you have no other reason to suspect anything worse than a burnt valve. Just my 02 ...
     
  3. May 17, 2009 at 1:34 PM
    #3
    2toys

    2toys [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Sorry, 3rz. Thanks.
     
  4. May 17, 2009 at 2:34 PM
    #4
    TRD4x4858

    TRD4x4858 Taco Traitor!

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    BONE STOCK! lol
    Check out how your warranty covers you, is it a reimburse deal or is it a deductible?
     
  5. May 17, 2009 at 3:09 PM
    #5
    2toys

    2toys [OP] Well-Known Member

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    0 deductible, they say they will pay or reimburse. I'm thinking the latter at best...
     
  6. May 17, 2009 at 3:13 PM
    #6
    TRD4x4858

    TRD4x4858 Taco Traitor!

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    BONE STOCK! lol
    That sucks, Being that your from L.A there should be alot of reputable toyota shops that will give you a better quote than the dealer
     
  7. May 17, 2009 at 3:17 PM
    #7
    2toys

    2toys [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Exactly. Best case scenario, I get reimbursed for a minimal amount of work (valve job). Worst case, I don't get reimbursed (due to insurance loop-hole) and pay thru the nose for minimal work when I could have a whole new engine for the same amount of money!!!
     

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