Engine Swap Questions

Is this the end of the line for my '03? I've got some rot in the engine block right where the oil pressure sending unit connects. Leaking oil pretty good. My mechanic is going to try to weld it, but isn't confident that it's going to work out. Either way, that probably isn't a permanent fix.

I just hit 250K miles, the frame was replaced just a couple years ago, and overall the truck is in pretty amazing condition for going for a quarter million miles and 19 Upstate NY winters. I also have a warranty through GEICO (long story, the warranty doesn't expire as long as I own the vehicle. $250 deductible, but the one thing it doesn't cover is damage from rust), and thanks to that, pretty much all other mechanical issues are covered.

I love this truck, and with the new frame, warranty, and general condition, I'm considering putting in a new engine. There are some out there on eBay and elsewhere on the internet, but this is brand new to me. I'm handy, but not this handy. My mechanic would be doing the work for me.

There are a few available from lowmilejdm.com at what seems like a reasonable price. Some of the reviews there are less than glowing, though. Anyone have any recommendations on where to get one? Ebay? Is this whole JDM/Japan motor thing legit? Thanks for any input or guidance.

 

Please get some good pictures!!

I could see a poor casting defect that cracked after all this time. sending unit screwed in to tight cracking the block.

Cast steel does not suffer from more then surface rust in most cases. A casting defect is not rust!!

Your talking brand new refreshed engine or new to you used engine?

JDM engines are for the most legit imported from Japan it comes down to some shady sellers.

The bad part is your dealing with a mechanic who is not going to swap a bad JDM engine for free. Plus your also dealing with shipping . Maybe discuss this with your mechanic get there input.

I would look for a running engine in a part out on the Toyota Forums.

 

What engine?

 

I repowered my 2006. It made to 242,000. 100,000 with head gasket issue on #5 cylinder. Spent the money on a “good” reman with warranty. It runs well but burns oil on the freeway on long hauls

I love my truck like you and am locked in for life on this rig. That said Toyota motors are no longer like the legendary 22r on my first truck. Compared to competition they are ok/good but it’s a roll of the dice. These new motors don’t seem very durable compared to the older versions

 

The 22R& Re engines had there issues as well eating timing chain guides head gasket failures.

Horse power was built in the head and so very expensive per horse power.

I have far to many in vehicles do you want a few?

 

I am starting to part my v6 02 taco out and the engine is still in good running shape. Needs a few sensors but ran super strong. Mobil one from day one. I don’t have enough posts to list things for sale yet but will be parting her out in the next month or so.

 

You can message people looking for goodies your selling!!

 

3.4 L V6

 

Where are you located?

 

I’d trust taco critter more then jdm import. Not trnna stir up some shit or get chewed out but I’d seriously look into those jdm engines before pulling the trigger on one. Rather pick up one from a junk yard.

 

If I had the money I would buy it in a second!!

 

OP, I am having similar issues on my 2000 3.4L 5VZFE with 255k miles. A mechanic friend checked it out for me, and pointed me to JDM replacement motors.
There are complete rebuilt engines from Yota1, but they cost around $4500.
Anyone have any experience with these engines?

 

I’d second @Bivouac and say to try and get it covered as a casting defect/crack in the block, should be easy enough to clean the area, chip away what you can with a screwdriver, soak it with some penetrating fluid to loosen the rust, then power wash the area, you just might find a crack there…..sometimes trace dye works well for this if it’s a slow leak.

 

07827

 

I know just harder to find people wanting things vs saying hey I’m selling this entire truck as a part out. But thanks I’m now 2 posts closer to posting in for sale.

 

Is it an extended cab?

 

Yes

 

I hate to see one be put out to pasture but, I need a couple interior pieces.

 

she lived a very good life. What are you looking for? It’s a grey interior and has some wear.

 

Small items, the driver’s seat back adjuster trim piece and the passenger side seat release pad on the foot step. (The little black thing you step on when your in the backseat and it flips the passenger seat back forward and allows the seat to slide to let you out.