Replace a headgasket???

Ok, here's a question. Since my '96 is rusted out and leaking all over the place, I'm looking for a replacement. There's a '96 in really good condition that runs for sale ($3500) but needs a headgasket. What do people think the general cost of that is? I have $5500 to spend, I'm wondering if getting this one and getting a new headgasket is worth it.

https://abbotsford.craigslist.org/cto/d/chilliwack-central-1996-tacoma/7203680831.html

 

Great deal if the frames not rusted out.
Go for it.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

unless ur able to do the work urself, expect to spend 2-3k for the job to be done by a shop. I just did HG and head for my 2rz

 

I would be wary. Inspect it closely. If there is coolant in the oil, then it may have bearing issues, which would mean the bottom end would need rebuilt. If it has been overheated, the head could be cracked, so the leak may not be resolved by replacing the head gasket. It would be prudent to have the head checked for flat, and probably resurfaced. If you can do the work yourself, it may be better to buy it and swap engines with the one in your current truck. Without knowing how long the person ran it with a leaky head, if they just changed the oil so you wouldn't see coolant in it, etc, I would go into it assuming the engine needs rebuilt and make the offer accordingly.

 

460k??

If it really is clean I'd say get it and replace the headgasket.

But with that many miles he's gotta come down on the price a little bit..

 

What he said. A blown gasket often results in extreme heating and serious internal damage.