I have a 1988 SR5 V6 4-Runner. It has 218K miles on it. Still runs fine but I can tell the engine’s getting a bit tired. I want to start restoring it (new engine, suspension, paint etc.) I was wondering if any one out there has experience dropping a new / re-built engine in their first generation 4Runner. I was also curious if a larger engine (4.0L) would fit in it or if I should just stick with the same type/size of the stock engine. I am not a mechanic so I’m looking to get some information on my various options and how to go about it. I’m located in CA. Any help would be much appreciated. Cheers, Christian

I know this may not be the most popular suggestion, but I think the 2.2L 4 cylinder may be one of the finest engines ever produced. I imagine it would be a bit of a trick going from a (is that the 3.0L 6 cyl) to a 4 cyl. If that 3.0 has the original head gasket, you may want to check the oil for signs of anti-freeze.

I too have the same $runner/engine combo. I now have 334k miles on her. I'd like to do the 3.4L V6 swap and have been doing some research on it. I found a few sites that sell "kits" but are somewhat pricey. I'm in socal....email me off list. Maybe we can meet to talk more about it. Gary > >

Same here. I have 175K on mine, and though its been running strong, when I bought her she had been running low on oil for some time, so I am sure the engine life will pay for it. I am not to the point of swapping yet, but I will the time comes. There is no way in hell I am selling this one.

Gary, What's your e-mail address? It didn't show up on your response. Christian revn247