3VZ 4Runner question

[Tennessee Jed]

We've got a 95 4Runner with the 3VZ. It's got over 100K on a rebuild and for various reasons, mostly sentimental, we are probably going to keep it for many years to come.

I know this is a flawed engine, and it's a rebuild to boot. What do you recommend that will drop in its place? I know the 22RE is legendary, and I love the 3.4 V6 in my Tacoma too, but don't know what makes sense.

 

[TallCanDan]

Love my 5VZ and 5 speed in my Tacoma, I'd say do anything you have to do to go that route. Any motor you put in besides the same will necessitate the ecu and everything, so why not?
What are the smog laws like in TN?
Does the 4R have an auto or manual?

 

[Tennessee Jed]

The 4R is an automatic. And the county I live in has emissions testing.

I have done a little research and if this engine crumps I will probably drop in a 22RE. Would that necessitate a new transmission? Or will the one in it mate up? This is all premature, but it pays to plan ahead.

Thanks for the response. And dude - your motorcycle collection! Especially that TT - jeez louise...

 

[Tigerstripe40]

The 4R is an automatic. And the county I live in has emissions testing.

I have done a little research and if this engine crumps I will probably drop in a 22RE. Would that necessitate a new transmission? Or will the one in it mate up? This is all premature, but it pays to plan ahead.

Thanks for the response. And dude - your motorcycle collection! Especially that TT - jeez louise...

For the time, money, effort etc necessary to swap to a different motor, the 3.4 is really the way to go IMHO. The automatic makes it a bit more difficult, but it's not insurmountable. Info can be found here: http://www.offroadsolutions.com/tech-info/3-4l-5vz-fe-conversion/

The 5VZ is about as drop in as you can get.

If it wasn't for the fact that you need to use an aftermarket stand alone computer, I think the 4.0 1GR-FE from a newer tacoma, 4runner or tundra would be a KILLER swap.

 

[vipergrhd]

190 hp hi output

If you want an easy HP boost without killing your piggy bank this would be a quick swap,i just purchased my 3.4l from them a few weeks ago for my 99 4runner.

http://raptorengines.com/index.php?...ducts_id=102&zenid=rc8scml206j7025rvimqsi6ra2

If you decide with a 22RE these guys are on top of the list.http://www.22reperformance.com/22RE_Performance_-_Rebuilt_Engines.html

 

[Tennessee Jed]

Thanks a million guys - truthfully the 3.4 never occurred to me, but it's a no-brainer. Something about that 22RE though - makes you feel invincible...