Coolant Problem on 2.7L Tacoma

The latest statement leads me more towards headgasket.

You can pull the spark plugs and inspect them. Sometimes there will be obvious signs.

Be thorough. You'll find the problem.

 

I'm confused. Why did you replace the thermostat? What was it doing before that?

 

Hi Andrew, sorry for the confusion. The first time it overheated the thermostat was not replaced. After it overheated as I described we replaced the thermostat. But as it turns out it wasn’t the thermostat because my truck still overheats after driving for at least an hour and then coming to a stop and idling for a minute or less. I just dropped the truck off at auto repair shop. I’ll let you guys know what they say.

 

Cool. Good to know that you're still around to update. Keep us posted!

 

Hi guys! So as it turns out the head gasket is worn out. We had a reputable shop look at it and for them to replace the head gasket, timing chain, belts, hoses, main seals, etc. would cost $4500 to $5500. My dad went to another shop that said they would charge around $1500 to replace the head gasket/timing chain and also check the block for cracks using the magnuflux method. They also stated that they would resurface the cylinder heads if needed. We have been looking for a good used engine but it seems that when they come up they sell fast at least for the price I would like to pay which is around $2000 or so. My dad found one with 100,000 miles or so for only $1600 but it sold quickly. Do you guys think I should just have the current engine fixed up or just find a good used motor? I realize that my engine has 290,000 miles on it and can have more issues but if the shop determines everything else is in good shape then I suppose it would be best to just fix up the engine already in the truck.

Thanks,
Matthew

 

I wouldn’t put big money into any engine with 290K miles on it.

 

What method did they use determine, for sure, it was a head gasket?