1999 Toyota Tacoma V6 4wd Owner 20 years with 315K needing advice

Hi All,
I'm Jamie, owner of a beloved 1999 v6 4wd Toyota Tacoma truck. I need to make a decision on repairs. The Check engine light revealed misfire on cylinder #3. Compression test found 150psi while adjusted cylinders are 180psi. Cylinder leak test showed excessive leakage of 40psi to exhaust valve. If I had less miles they would suggest valve replacement. Due to mileage they suggest engine replacement. I've gotten quotes for valve job for 1.5k to 2.5k. A local toyota focused garage said they'd build me an engine & install for 3.5k. My regular garage found a toyota engine with 100k on it and they'd install for 3.9k. All other engine installation quotes have been between 4-5.5k.

One mechanic warned me if I just do the valve job, they would nickel & dime me for all the stuff found once the engine is opened up. A brand new engine is out of the question for me if I go the route of engine replacement (so choices would be the used one, or built one out of used parts).

Given Toyota's longevity reputation, would you just do the valve job and hope for the best? I'm open for other suggestions as well. It would be an easier decision if I was not un-employed (affected by shelter in place order).

 

Welcome to TW Jamie
Repost here

https://www.tacomaworld.com/forums/1st-gen-tacomas-1995-2004.4/

 

Thankyou....just did.

 

Welcome to TW!