1988 - new to me 4Runner -needs new cylinder head

[iam_turner]

Just bought this truck for 200 bucks.
It was running well, but good running rapidly declined when the cylinder head cracked. The owner was not able to tell me why it cracked, but i bought it anyway, because I was originally buying it for the rims to put on my fj40.

The guy wanted 100 dollars CAD for the tires and rims, but said I could have the whole thing for 200. Anyway, it's mine now.

I'm just wondering if a guy should attempt the head gasket. I have a certified mechanic friend who would give me some help. I have done a head gasket change before (i know that's different than a cylinder head), but never on an overhead cam engine. I know this engine will be more difficult to do this job.

Long story short, I'm just wondering if it would be better get to get a used 22RE engine, or if I should just change the cylinder head? I know I can get the cylinder head for about 250 (and change) on eBay.

Any advice?
the engine has 250 000 kms...
Thanks in advance.

 

[Cube Dweller]

How long do you plan to keep it? Less than a year, just do the head. For a long time, do the engine.

 

[YodaLJ]

ebay has some good deals on heads... i just picked one up for my 94 22RE for 300 bucks with valves springs seals and cam. i plan on doing a motor rebuild in a couple years tho because i am keeping it for a while. agreed with Cube Dweller