Bought new engine swap for 2001 Lexus LX470 - issues (7 Viewers)

[Kingfosgate]

Hello need some advice, my 2001 Lexus LX470 with 145K miles had a catastrophic engine failure a few months back and instead of taking the thing to the junk yard I decided to swap out the engine.

I found this motor - Pardon Our Interruption... - https://www.ebay.com/itm/116538570431

I was skeptical because it says "Tundra/Sequoia" but indicates it is compatible with the LX470. I provided my VIN to the company to confirm fitment and they confirmed it would work. So I proceeded to buy the motor.

I took the car to a local shop along with shipping the new engine to the shop. I was quoted $4000 in labor to put it in and a 1 week turnaround. I also purchased a new timing belt kit to replace. Here is the timeline since.

1. He didn't touch the car for 3 weeks after having everything he needed to get started
2. I texted him and said he clearly didn't want to work on it so I was going to come pick up the car and motor.. Same day he brings it into the bay to start working on it.
3. He's been working on it now for 3 weeks. He sends periodic texts to me with "new issues" that he needs to fix (bad knock sensor, crankshaft damaged, etc)
4. Sends me a text last night that he's having issues getting the engine installed because the lower pan is not the same as the original pan and has to take the engine back out of the car to swap oil pan from the blown motor
5. He's telling me he's already spent 40+ hours working on this and will need an additional $1300 in labor to complete the job.

Questions
1. Is this guy blowing smoke up my azz? Should it really take this much time and money to get done? Because this motor is not an exact LX470 motor, is there a bunch of work to get it working on the LX?
2. Did I make a big mistake getting this engine and not looking for an exact motor from another LX470?

So far this is how much I've spent on this car
1. Bought at auction site unseen (just pictures) - $9200 including auction fees, taxes, etc
2. New tires to fit oem wheels- $1250
3. Replaced audio system (head unit, speakers, amp, sub) - $1200
4. Misc issues fixed (AHC flush, AC charge, door lock actuators, buttons not working on dash, spark plugs/coil pack,steering wheel) - $600
5. new motor (88K miles)- $1800 shipped
6. Labor for new motor - $5300

As you can see, way more money invested than I'll ever get to recover, so hopefully it'll be a good working car and I'll be able to get my moneys worth out of it.. I feel stuck and this local shop has me over the barrel at this point..


Thanks

 

[Trunk Monkey]

Can't speak to his time and labor and how fast he works or if he wants to do the job, but I can say that yes, there are accessory items (like the oil pan) that are different between the Tundra/Seq and LC/LX. Since you have the old motor available it should be easy for him to pull those parts off. Search around here, there's several good threads documenting this type of swap and what the exact difference are.

 

[Kingfosgate]

Can't speak to his time and labor and how fast he works or if he wants to do the job, but I can say that yes, there are accessory items (like the oil pan) that are different between the Tundra/Seq and LC/LX. Since you have the old motor available it should be easy for him to pull those parts off. Search around here, there's several good threads documenting this type of swap and what the exact difference are.

Thanks. I just feel like this guy is in over his head. Sucks because he was recommended to me by a family member.

For some reason, most shops in my area refused to do this work.

 

[AARONTLC]

Thanks. I just feel like this guy is in over his head. Sucks because he was recommended to me by a family member.

For some reason, most shops in my area refused to do this work.

(bad knock sensor, crankshaft damaged, etc)

If the crankshaft is damaged then you are had. I think this guy is in way over his head.

 

[excessive]

i can say from experience, that when swapping in a new engine, there are a lot of things that come up. There are also a lot of opportunities for "while you're in there" items. Also, in pulling / transporting a new/used engine there's almost certainly something that is going to get broken or damaged

 

[2001LC]

He's obviously not what I call a 100 series guy. Likely, INDY working on all makes and models. Or he would have known, in first few minutes at looking at replacement engine. Oil pans are different. Bummer he had engine in the engine bay, before noticing dipstick on other side.

Mian parts that must be swapped over from old engine:
Engine mounts.
Vane pump bracket.
AC compressor.
Wire harness.
Oil pick up tube.
Upper and lower oil pan
Dipstick.
O2 wire hangers.

When we don't pay the extra to get a 100 series, as they are priced higher. We've extra hours labor time. We go for best engine, regardless if 100 series or not.

Fact, that he's finding additional cost/parts needed. Is good thing. Although hard on your wallet.

What you may not know. Is buy used engine, is not just grab first deal you find. Many used engine are junk. It takes time and homework to find a go one.

If this engine fails. You may have a warranty from seller. But they'll rarely include labor and often only give credit for another engine/parts, not cash back. Your mechanic, is not responsible for this engine or the labor. He likely, didn't get started on the job, when you excepted. Because he's, likely very busy and has waiting list. If someone expect fast service. They should take to Dealership, where they have 40, 50 even a 100 mechanics in the shop. Let them find the engine, so they warranty it. The Dealership here I trust. Is currently quoting $17K (assume additional parts) for used replaced engine in 100 series. New is rarely installed, they're ~$25K installed.

What are the differences between 2UZ-fe VVti engines, & where can I get one??

I'm in need of a engine and looking for ideas.:hmm: Some questions I have are: What all makes, models and years did Toyota/Lexus install the 2UZ-fe VVti in? Are the 2UZ-fe VVti engine the same in the 06-07 Land Cruiser/LX470? Are 4runner, GX, Tundra, Sequoia etc. different then ours? What are...

forum.ih8mud.com

Engine Block Identification number decipher?

I've been rooting around the net, looking for an engine block code decipher for our 2UZ-fe block or toyota engines in general. Anyone have a handle on this? I've found two location on our block with identification numbers/letters: One set is stamped just below throttle body on front top of...

forum.ih8mud.com

4.7L 2UZ-fe VVTi, a bit harder to find, then the 89-05 4.7L. This was a 2006 GX470 engine into a 2007 LC. Both are made in Japan.

Scored 2007 Unicorn. The holy grail of 100 series.

So no Nav HVAC makes it the unicorn? It is very clean underneath. I thought I found a unicorn with my 2000 LC with only 109k miles. Yes apparently that is a big deal around here.

forum.ih8mud.com

Meet BlackBeauty:
I bought this Slee built 2011LC, with blown engine. After Dealerships quote PO, $35K R&R blown engine. It been sitting 3 months now. I've not even had time to buy an engine for it. I hope to have in shop before winter. I may just sell, as is!

This 3UR blew a piston out the pan, or parts of piston.

.

 

[LJE]

He's obviously not what I call a 100 series guy. Likely, INDY working on all makes and models. Or he would have known, in first few minutes at looking at replacement engine. Oil pans are different. Bummer he had engine in the engine bay, before noticing dipstick on other side.

Mian parts that must be swapped over from old engine:
Engine mounts.
Vane pump bracket.
AC compressor.
Wire harness.
Oil pick up tube.
Upper and lower oil pan
Dipstick.
O2 wire hangers.

When we don't pay the extra to get a 100 series, as they are priced higher. We've extra hours labor time. We go for best engine, regardless if 100 series or not.

Fact, that he's finding additional cost/parts needed. Is good thing. Although hard on your wallet.

What you may not know. Is buy used engine, is not just grab first deal you find. Many used engine are junk. It takes time and homework to find a go one.

If this engine fails. You may have a warranty from seller. But they'll rarely include labor and often only give credit for another engine/parts, not cash back. Your mechanic, is not responsible for this engine or the labor. He likely, didn't get started on the job, when you excepted. Because he's, likely very busy and has waiting list. If someone expect fast service. They should take to Dealership, where they have 40, 50 even a 100 mechanics in the shop. Let them find the engine, so they warranty it. The Dealership here I trust. Is currently quoting $17K (assume additional parts) for used replaced engine in 100 series. New is rarely installed, they're ~$25K installed.

What are the differences between 2UZ-fe VVti engines, & where can I get one??

I'm in need of a engine and looking for ideas.:hmm: Some questions I have are: What all makes, models and years did Toyota/Lexus install the 2UZ-fe VVti in? Are the 2UZ-fe VVti engine the same in the 06-07 Land Cruiser/LX470? Are 4runner, GX, Tundra, Sequoia etc. different then ours? What are...

forum.ih8mud.com

Engine Block Identification number decipher?

I've been rooting around the net, looking for an engine block code decipher for our 2UZ-fe block or toyota engines in general. Anyone have a handle on this? I've found two location on our block with identification numbers/letters: One set is stamped just below throttle body on front top of...

forum.ih8mud.com

4.7L 2UZ-fe VVTi, a bit harder to find, then the 89-05 4.7L. This was a 2006 GX470 engine into a 2007 LC. Both are made in Japan.

Scored 2007 Unicorn. The holy grail of 100 series.

So no Nav HVAC makes it the unicorn? It is very clean underneath. I thought I found a unicorn with my 2000 LC with only 109k miles. Yes apparently that is a big deal around here.

forum.ih8mud.com

Meet BlackBeauty:
I bought this Slee built 2011LC, with blown engine. After Dealerships quote PO, $35K R&R blown engine. It been sitting 3 months now. I've not even had time to buy an engine for it. I hope to have in shop before winter. I may just sell, as is!

This 3UR blew a piston out the pan, or parts of piston.
View attachment 3936008View attachment 3936007
.View attachment 3936009


View attachment 3936011View attachment 3936010
View attachment 3936012
View attachment 3936015View attachment 3936016View attachment 3936014
View attachment 3936017

Oh hey, I remember seeing that one!
Glad that it at least got passed on to someone in the forum. If you ever decide that it's not worth your time (or you don't have time for it...) let me know - would be a fun project to do a 3UR.

To the OP - like others have said, there are differences. But, it's is indeed a shame that the mechanic wasn't knowledgeable enough to know that ahead of time.

 

[2001LC]

Oh hey, I remember seeing that one!
Glad that it at least got passed on to someone in the forum. If you ever decide that it's not worth your time (or you don't have time for it...) let me know - would be a fun project to do a 3UR.

To the OP - like others have said, there are differences. But, it's is indeed a shame that the mechanic wasn't knowledgeable enough to know that ahead of time.

PM me if interested with offer as-is or finished to spec. All my 100 & 200 series are always for sale, at the right price. I just don't often list them.

Back to OP of this thread. If not a wrencher, make sure you've got a 100 series with good bones. If so, then be ready to open your wallet wide. In the end if done right, you'll have a sweet ride.

 

[TenderTendon]

I replaced the motor in my 2003 LC with a 2004 Tundra motor. The only things I had to replace were the oil pan and oil filter adapter. Not bad at all...

 

[rexington14]

Meet BlackBeauty:
I bought this Slee built 2011LC, with blown engine. After Dealerships quote PO, $35K R&R blown engine. It been sitting 3 months now. I've not even had time to buy an engine for it. I hope to have in shop before winter. I may just sell, as is!

This 3UR blew a piston out the pan, or parts of piston.

I've seen a few reports in the 200 series forum of people who got new (used) motors put in for around $18k all-in. $35k is insane.

It also takes months of downtime to locate a good 200 donor motor. 3UR sourced from a Tundra or Sequoia installed into a 200 are not well documented and there's no report I know of where a shop was willing to install anything other than a LC/LX motor from a compatible year.

 

[Kingfosgate]

He's obviously not what I call a 100 series guy. Likely, INDY working on all makes and models. Or he would have known, in first few minutes at looking at replacement engine. Oil pans are different. Bummer he had engine in the engine bay, before noticing dipstick on other side.

Mian parts that must be swapped over from old engine:
Engine mounts.
Vane pump bracket.
AC compressor.
Wire harness.
Oil pick up tube.
Upper and lower oil pan
Dipstick.
O2 wire hangers.

When we don't pay the extra to get a 100 series, as they are priced higher. We've extra hours labor time. We go for best engine, regardless if 100 series or not.

Fact, that he's finding additional cost/parts needed. Is good thing. Although hard on your wallet.

What you may not know. Is buy used engine, is not just grab first deal you find. Many used engine are junk. It takes time and homework to find a go one.

If this engine fails. You may have a warranty from seller. But they'll rarely include labor and often only give credit for another engine/parts, not cash back. Your mechanic, is not responsible for this engine or the labor. He likely, didn't get started on the job, when you excepted. Because he's, likely very busy and has waiting list. If someone expect fast service. They should take to Dealership, where they have 40, 50 even a 100 mechanics in the shop. Let them find the engine, so they warranty it. The Dealership here I trust. Is currently quoting $17K (assume additional parts) for used replaced engine in 100 series. New is rarely installed, they're ~$25K installed.

What are the differences between 2UZ-fe VVti engines, & where can I get one??

I'm in need of a engine and looking for ideas.:hmm: Some questions I have are: What all makes, models and years did Toyota/Lexus install the 2UZ-fe VVti in? Are the 2UZ-fe VVti engine the same in the 06-07 Land Cruiser/LX470? Are 4runner, GX, Tundra, Sequoia etc. different then ours? What are...

forum.ih8mud.com

Engine Block Identification number decipher?

I've been rooting around the net, looking for an engine block code decipher for our 2UZ-fe block or toyota engines in general. Anyone have a handle on this? I've found two location on our block with identification numbers/letters: One set is stamped just below throttle body on front top of...

forum.ih8mud.com

4.7L 2UZ-fe VVTi, a bit harder to find, then the 89-05 4.7L. This was a 2006 GX470 engine into a 2007 LC. Both are made in Japan.

Scored 2007 Unicorn. The holy grail of 100 series.

So no Nav HVAC makes it the unicorn? It is very clean underneath. I thought I found a unicorn with my 2000 LC with only 109k miles. Yes apparently that is a big deal around here.

forum.ih8mud.com

Meet BlackBeauty:
I bought this Slee built 2011LC, with blown engine. After Dealerships quote PO, $35K R&R blown engine. It been sitting 3 months now. I've not even had time to buy an engine for it. I hope to have in shop before winter. I may just sell, as is!

This 3UR blew a piston out the pan, or parts of piston.
View attachment 3936008View attachment 3936007
.View attachment 3936009


View attachment 3936011View attachment 3936010
View attachment 3936012
View attachment 3936015View attachment 3936016View attachment 3936014
View attachment 3936017

oh dang, thanks for the info. I relayed this to the mechanic since he clearly didn't do his due diligence upfront.
NO WAY I'd pay 17K+ for an engine swap.. No offense, I love these cars but for that money I'd go buy a late model 4Runner with 100K miles for low 20s..
The "new" engine is an import from Japan with 88k miles on it so I figured I was getting a diamond in the rough. Hopefully once it's all said and done, I'll have a rock solid LX that will last for a long time..
Thanks again.

 

[Kingfosgate]

PM me if interested with offer as-is or finished to spec. All my 100 & 200 series are always for sale, at the right price. I just don't often list them.

Back to OP of this thread. If not a wrencher, make sure you've got a 100 series with good bones. If so, then be ready to open your wallet wide. In the end if done right, you'll have a sweet ride.

Yah, I am a wrencher to a degree. I did everything else up to the point of the engine blowing up. I did the AHC flush, fixed all the door actuators, replaced the stereo, soldered new buttons on the back of the dash circuit board, charged the A/C, yada yada..
Would have loved to do the engine swap but don't have the room, tools, or time.. so needed a shop to do it..

I also have a 2000 LX470 and the brake booster motor failed a few weeks back. I replaced the motor and took it to a shop down the street who failed to bleed the system properly and told me the master cylinder failed. Really just needed to be bled via the Toyota Techstream software.. which the local Toyota Dealership did for 100 bucks. Man I don't trust mechanics!

 

[rexington14]

NO WAY I'd pay 17K+ for an engine swap.. No offense, I love these cars but for that money I'd go buy a late model 4Runner with 100K miles for low 20s..
The "new" engine is an import from Japan with 88k miles on it so I figured I was getting a diamond in the rough. Hopefully once it's all said and done, I'll have a rock solid LX that will last for a long time..
Thanks again.

Agreed. I love my 100 but if my engine ever blows up there's no way I'm paying anywhere even close to $17k+ for a motor swap. I'd immediately have it towed to the junkyard / sell it as-is.

It's one of the bigger knocks on the 200 where a motor swap to the tune of $17k is the norm. If that motor blows you really are screwed especially on an older depreciated truck.

 

[Super77]

This really sucks. Sounds like you’re $20K+ into what you assumed was a <$10K low mileage truck.

Consider it may be magical thinking to think you’ll have a “rock solid LX that will last a long time.” Does its history that you shared square with that outcome? Sunk cost fallacy.

What can you afford less, selling it as-is or continuing to throw money at it?

 

[Kingfosgate]

This really sucks. Sounds like you’re $20K+ into what you assumed was a <$10K low mileage truck.

Consider it may be magical thinking to think you’ll have a “rock solid LX that will last a long time.” Does its history that you shared square with that outcome? Sunk cost fallacy.

What can you afford less, selling it as-is or continuing to throw money at it?

LOL, you're depressing me. I was at a point of no return the moment I bought the replacement motor. Before that, I was in for around 12-13K and I could have recouped 2400 of it by pulling out the stereo and tires. As-is blown motor LX I would have been lucky to get 3K for it, so 7k in the hole. Now i'm another 7k in the hole with new motor and labor...
Either way I was screwed.. should have torn up the check to the auctioneer the moment i saw it in person

 

[delz05]

Curious... what was the outcome with your differences you had with the auction site? Did they offer any reasonable assistance?

 

[Super77]

LOL, you're depressing me. I was at a point of no return the moment I bought the replacement motor. Before that, I was in for around 12-13K and I could have recouped 2400 of it by pulling out the stereo and tires. As-is blown motor LX I would have been lucky to get 3K for it, so 7k in the hole. Now i'm another 7k in the hole with new motor and labor...
Either way I was screwed.. should have torn up the check to the auctioneer the moment i saw it in person

Yeah, I hesitated posting but the question needs to be asked at some point. Just thinking about the truck’s history that you posted in your other thread. Will a new motor really be the end of it?

Did you ever get a borescope look into the old engine or determine root cause?