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Where to buy new engine? 2.7

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by gravgrip, Aug 21, 2021.

  1. Aug 21, 2021 at 11:01 AM
    #1
    gravgrip

    gravgrip [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Hello everyone. My engine needs to be replaced, unfortunately. My Gen 1 is in amazing condition so I will be doing the work to get her running right again. What's the best source place to buy a new engine? Any links would be very much appreciated.

    I was quoted $1800 for the install. Anything else I should replace when this is completed? I will replace the clutch while I'm at it
     
  2. Aug 21, 2021 at 12:13 PM
    #2
    JudoJohn

    JudoJohn Well-Known Member

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    I would look into getting a used good condition JDM engine.
     
  3. Aug 21, 2021 at 12:16 PM
    #3
    JudoJohn

    JudoJohn Well-Known Member

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    I'm not sure they make new 2.7 engines anymore. The best you may be able to do is a remanufactured or rebuilt from a reputable company. Or, rebuild it yourself with new bearings, rings, etc.
     
  4. Aug 21, 2021 at 12:33 PM
    #4
    gravgrip

    gravgrip [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Thank you, this is what I'm thinking. Any recommendations of reputable companies to purchase from?
     
  5. Aug 21, 2021 at 12:39 PM
    #5
    eon_blue

    eon_blue Okayest Member

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    I'd rather get a low mileage replacement than a rebuild. No one makes them better than Toyota after all. JDM sells used engines from Japan, usually with pretty low mileage. Due to emissions regulations in Japan, people get rid of their cars when the mileage is still pretty low. JDM then sells the engines over here.
     
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  6. Aug 21, 2021 at 12:51 PM
    #6
    gravgrip

    gravgrip [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Great to know, I've been looking for JDM. Is $2-3k to be expected? Here is one option I found https://jdmofsandiego.com/product/1...r-2-7l-engine-jdm-3rz-moto-3rzfe-distributor/
     
  7. Aug 21, 2021 at 12:56 PM
    #7
    stevesnj

    stevesnj Well-Known Member

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    Is the bottom end bad? Maybe Toyota sells the shortblock still and just use your current cyl head. Dunno what your budget is.
     
  8. Aug 21, 2021 at 12:59 PM
    #8
    gravgrip

    gravgrip [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Yea, the bottom end is bad. I'll look into this option, thank you. I just really don't have much knowledge when it comes to the engine
     
  9. Aug 21, 2021 at 1:13 PM
    #9
    US Marine

    US Marine Semper Fi

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    I would have your engine rebuilt by a reputable machine shop . This way you have a new engine with 0 miles on it . I wouldn't trust a used engine as there is just way to many unseen variables . I just don't understand why so many people here like used engines and the risk involved with them


    Places like this build performance crate motors

    https://www.yotashop.com/3rz-40/
     
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  10. Aug 21, 2021 at 1:18 PM
    #10
    gravgrip

    gravgrip [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Thanks for the info. Maybe a stupid question, but if I purchased this: https://www.yotashop.com/toyota-4runner-tacoma-2-7l-3rz-engine-short-block-3rz-sb-9504/ would my mechanic install the block using existing components from my current engine?

    Thanks
     
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  11. Aug 21, 2021 at 1:18 PM
    #11
    US Marine

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    They even make stroker kits and H beam rods for 3RZ motors
     
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  12. Aug 21, 2021 at 1:24 PM
    #12
    US Marine

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  13. Aug 21, 2021 at 1:26 PM
    #13
    gravgrip

    gravgrip [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Good to know, thanks. Will plug my vin in later on!
     
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  14. Aug 21, 2021 at 1:35 PM
    #14
    Dirty Dude

    Dirty Dude Well-Known Member

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    A stock-spec rebuilt naked shortblock for $3300? Have 3RZs become that expensive? :eek:

    What is actually wrong with the bottom end? I find it hard to believe the block and crank are trash unless something very serious happened. It will likely be less expensive to get a rebuild if that's possible.

    Also not unheard of for those engines to be very poorly maintained partly for that reason. I'd still rather take my chances with one though. You just have to go into it knowing the engine could be full of sludge and abnormal wear for the mileage.
     
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  15. Aug 21, 2021 at 2:32 PM
    #15
    Potomus Pete

    Potomus Pete Love my little truck

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    Whats wrong with a junk yard motor...They all last forever.
     
  16. Aug 22, 2021 at 9:46 AM
    #16
    JudoJohn

    JudoJohn Well-Known Member

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    Yes, I agree, that's a lot for a short block! I think it was 4800 for a long block form them, too.

    I think either a used engine or rebuild it yourself or have your mech do it.
     
  17. Aug 22, 2021 at 10:00 AM
    #17
    JudoJohn

    JudoJohn Well-Known Member

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    If you do it yourself, parts would cost about $302 from Rock Auto

    rod bearings- 30
    main bearings 45
    head bolts- 30
    gasket set -72
    rings-50
    chain set -75
    Then you have the machine shop charges- valve job- 300-500
    clean block
    hone cylinders
    polish or grind crank
    not sure of cost- est $400 + -

    Rock auto also has a long block for $2489.
     
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  18. Aug 22, 2021 at 10:25 AM
    #18
    US Marine

    US Marine Semper Fi

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    Most auto part stores and other mfgs that sell very cheaply priced long blocks and short blocks will have cheap quality parts installed . Yes the price is very cheap and easy on your wallet but I've seen many of the cheap remanned engines with catastrophic failures

    Most of these engines use hypereutectic pistons which are made from a silicone alloy and are very fragile . They don't work well with boosted applications and also can be damaged from excessive spark knock . They literally shatter like glass


    This is why I like using Forged pistons from well known mfg's
     
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  19. Aug 22, 2021 at 11:29 AM
    #19
    se7enine

    se7enine MCMLXXIX

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    If you get a rebuild from YotaShop or Yota1 at least you know you're getting quality parts from a quality Toyota builder. Toyota engines don't like cheap exterior engine parts so I imagine cheap internals can be just as bad. Even JDM motors should be opened up to see what condition everything is in and if it needs a quick rebuild or not. Could end up in the same boat as before if you're not cautious.
     
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  20. Aug 22, 2021 at 11:44 AM
    #20
    gravgrip

    gravgrip [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I need to find out exactly what is wrong with the bottom end. My knowledge of engine terminology is pretty poor, but my mechanic said the problem was coming not from the head or valves, but deeper within the engine. He said my best option would be a replacement engine.

    I'm going to call a bunch of local junkyards tomorrow and hope I can find something. I found some JDM engines for a little less than $2k. I was told around $1800 for install, will change the clutch while I'm at it.
     

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