Bought T-100, got screwed?

so it looks like I’ve been dealt a crap hand. I just bought a 97 Toyota t100 for $5900 with 100k on it. I’ve had my truck at Toyota for maintenance for the last few days and get a call this morning with an update. Looks like the 3rd cylinder isn’t firing strong could be compression. Changed the spark plugs and swapped working ignition coil for the bad and same result. They think it could be a bad cylinder head or blown piston. Starter went out and gonna have to replace to do compression for solid answer. However looks like it’s getting fuel via video probe put down cylinder.

They quoted me $1800 Just for labor. In addition I’m looking at all new belts and a new radiator (current one has a leak). With the cylinder head ($1k) and labor plus everything else I’m estimating $4-4500 for everything (that’s roughly $11k into this thing). NOW WHAT THE HELL DO I DO?!? Is it worth it, do I sell it. Am I better off swapping out the entire engine. I’m stuck!

Thanks everyone

 

Probably swap in a new motor. Id bump up to the 4.7 tundra V8 Iforce ! 3.4 direct swap would be easier of course

 

sorry to hear the bad news. 11k that is crazy, have you already looked into the cost of swapping the motor?

 

Take it to an independent shop and save money.

@jberry813 is in your area, maybe he knows a place to recommend.

 

I thought that the 3.4L had a semi common problem of blowing spark-plugs out of their threads. That being said if the plug was outside its home the truck would have been running very poorly and very well could have ruined the coil. Did you notice this work needed to be done prior to buying it?

 

I noticed it idling weird when cold and figured it could use some new plugs. Really wasn't too noticeable after warming up. The mechanic told me the wrong plugs were in it. those were replaced, but did not resolve the misfire.

 

Curious, have you ever swapped an engine? wondering what labor hours to expect. I found an engine with a 60 day warranty in california for 1100.

thanks!

 

Swapping the engine is a weekend job, as long as there is not other issues like broken bolts etc.

 

I have never done it alone, but have helped a buddy out. Its not horrible if you stay organized, maybe find a friend that has experience to help.

 

ziploc bags and large magic markers are king. even better, have a friend who's sole duty is to take pictures while you pull out every bolt. then just work backwards from the pictures. if it's not your daily driver, this gives you an opportunity to pick up new parts to replace anything that's not 100% kosher.

 

Check engineworld.com. out of Emeryville. Got a 3.0 Acura motor, certified less than 40k, with warranty for $650.00 delivered.

 

Or recycle row up by Sacramento

 

Thanks for those suggestions!