Seeking a central California Toyota expert

I previously posted this to reddit, and I want to throw my line out again. I need help. Don't have the skills or the tools.

A little about my truck; its a 2002 extra cab, 2wd, has the big 4 cyl. 3rzfe (I don't recall the litres), 220,000 miles and clean as a whistle.

It has what I believe is a piston slap when its cold, it soft knocks a bit over 2000 rpm. I am betting it needs an engine replacement or rebuild, or at the very least a deep exploration of issues. I love this truck and I want to drive it long distance again. Right now can only manage a slow gentle commute to avoid the noises. I live in California presently, but if there is a Toyota savant, or an exceptional shop that I can consult with I am willing to go a reasonable distance. I have posted the cold start noise before, so look in my post history if you are curious.

Thank you

 

Yota1 Performance and Machine shop is in Modesto. They specialize in Toyota off-road pickups. That's where I got my 3rz rebuild engine.
https://209yota1.com/

 

I am in San Luis Obispo. Modesto is a long haul, and my truck is pretty stock and tame. But if they are really worth their salt I will put them on my list. Thank you for the replies, guys, keep em coming.

 

Actually they are in Riverbank.

But yes @DalesKeeper Yota1 is a VERY good shop that specializes in Toyota.

San Luis Obispo is a bit of a haul though. I would definately call them before making a trip. They currently have a bit of a wait on engine work.

 

My bad. Yeah, I should've known that seeing is I had to send them my core.

 

Modesto is close enough to get the general location though

Just down the road.