Connecting Rod Failure

The shop got back to me. I was floored by the estimate. Labor between $2700 and $3200 while the engine is between $5k and $8k. Estimate doesn't even say what type of engine (new/re-manufactured/used junkyard). This shop is giving off BAD vibes. I'm going elsewhere.

For the hell of it, I checked with the stealership and they offered an engine with 100k+ miles for $5k + $3k labor.

I found Colorado Engine and they had re-manufactured for a lot less (labor and parts). It was only a few hundred more than a used. Probably worth spending the extra $400 for re-manufactured.

I had grease monkey change my oil about 3-weeks ago. I checked the dipstick and the level looked normal. Oil looked really clean. It was 5-30 conventional oil.

I just gotta get it towed to the other shop.

 

They said after inspection #2 cylinder rod failing. I'm not liking this shop, communication is poor.

I didn't get a CEL.

 

Those are insane prices.

 

The engine looks like it burned a bit of oil. Or is that normal?

I say that because I've opened up motors of similar mileage and some were absolutely clean inside. The brown spots indicate to me maybe this truck wasn't taken care of before...

 

The op hasent posted any pics yet

 

If you're referring to the pictures that I posted, that staining is due to regular usage of Royal Purple, way back when.

 

Interesting...

 

Anyone know the value of 05 Tacoma with dead motor?

Exploring all options, as the best price I could find is using an ATK remanufactured motor (labor & engine $6354). Plus parts for thermostat, water pump, etc that need replacing.

A used engine with 100k would be $4745 (labor + engine). Plus parts for thermostat, water pump, etc.

They use Napa and carquest parts for replacement of thermostat, water pump, radiator, etc. If needed.

 

Source your own used engine. You can find them for cheaper than that. Gadget at URD even sells them. I have purchased used engines for roughly $1500.

Do the swap yourself with some help, and save yourself a lot more money. It is very easy. Done it PLENTY of times.

Labeled ziplock baggies FTW.

 

You should check with @foampile. He can rebuild it for you....

 

That is a disastrous idea. Lol

 

There's 1grfe long blocks all over, even look on eBay you can get one with under 90k with a 90 day warranty shipped for less the 2,000.

 

No doubt about those quotes being in the stratosphere......can get this motor for 2 grand new. Find a local shop or get a friend with an engine hoist and research the replacement procedure. It shouldn't be that difficult at all. Especially considering it wasnt wrecked so everything should be intact. Some have had a wire harness or two break during this process. The internet is your friend. So is a Haynes manual. I find it sad that shops try to rape people that don't know any better with prices like these. Where's the humanity?

 

^epic post!

 

Op, I don't know your mechanical abilities or if you have a garage or even a driveway to DIY it. If you are comfortable with performing most mechanical repair, and have the time, get an engine and replace it yourself. Engine hoists are cheap at Harbor Freight and we have plenty around here in CT. I'd seriously look at a rebuilt long block or complete engine as they typically come with a decent warranty. Call a few wrecking yards and price out used too so that you can get a sense of the price difference. The fact that you have a stick does make a swap a little more difficult as you have to align the clutch up with the input shaft. Honestly, it's not overly hard to do, just a lot of work. Where in CT are you?

 

Good luck OP, that sucks.

 

I do work on the taco and the BMW, however if it's something I can't get done in a day or two I have to outsource the labor, due to my work schedule.

My BMW has over 185k miles and I really need a reliable car, which was the taco. Getting a used or remanufactured engine at this point doesn't give me a warm feeling of reliability in the mountains of Colorado.

I'm looking to sell the truck as-is and get something else.

 

In the middle of moving and I think the best choice is to get rid of the '05 Tacoma, what do you think its worth if I craigslist it stating it has a blown engine?
2005 Tacoma 4x4, TRD, manual transmission, crew cab, and 165,314miles.
Bought in California, moved to Colorado shortly after purchase.