3RZ-FE engine balance shaft failure (1 Viewer)

[shumacpacha]

A seal from a balance shaft just failed, blocking my oil pump and doing ugly things to my 3RZ-FE engine (in a 2006 Toyota Prado LC). The same engine has also been used in the Tacoma, Hilux, and T100's. For further details, see the images in the attached pdf document.

The local engine shop in Quito (I live in Ecuador) informs that it has repaired a dozen of these over the last few years, eliminating the two balance shafts and filling the holes in the block.

Has anyone else faced this situation? Do you have any concerns about eliminating the balance shafts?

Thanks in advance for any thoughts or advice!

 

[40Habits]

I have heard of several people who have deleted the balancing shaft. They say that the vibration is hardly noticeable. The all reliable 22re never had them. You will also gain a little horse power by eliminating.

 

[shumacpacha]

Hello 40Habits,

Thanks for the reply. I have an '86 RJ70 LC (a lighter version of the FJ70) with a 22R engine, which has been surprisingly resilient. The lighter vehicle actually tracks better in mud than my '86 FJ70 (with an in-line 3F (3.9 liter) and leaf springs, which effectively serve as mud and rock anchors... Nevertheless, the 3F engine is an absolute tractor -- far less economical, but at 500,000 km of mountain terrain, I'd describe it as bulletproof.

Based on my experience with this Prado (used by my wife), I am not very convinced of the 3RZ-FE and in particular the notion of balance shafts. In fact, I was surprised to find them! Right now, I am leaning towards your recommendation -- eliminate the balance shafts, but first want to make sure I will not be causing future problems!

 

[40Habits]

The balancing shafts are a common point of failure on the 3RZ (as you well know). IMO you would have less problems with them gone. Again, you will get a little more vibration from the engine. The reason they are in there is because of the size of the engine. It is a large 4 cylinder and it helps smooth it out. The 22r never had them beause it was smaller. On the plus you will gain about 5HP and they will not fail again.

I have not heard of any problems from removing them and the vibration is minimal.