Looks like the worst may have happened. Signs are strong that I have a blown head gasket. 
Can you recommend a mechanic in the Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler area that is qualified for a FZJ-80 head gasket job?
Or, maybe in Prescott, if there is someone specially suitable.
It seems to have gone from no problems at all, to the engine won't even turn over in the space of half an hour and half a mile. Surprisingly sudden failure.
The wife is driving by herself on a visit to Prescott today, and this happens to her on the way through Prescott Valley.
The signs:
1) Sudden rough running when slowed down from highway speed to go through traffic lights. Engine almost stalling.
2) Engine temperature starts to climb. She pulls over into a parking lot to call me.
3) No external signs of fluid, leaks, puddles or anything.
4) Oil looks and smells normal.
5) (after cooling off 15 minutes) No coolant can be seen in the radiator (looking in the open cap). Coolant tank is way low.
6) After radiator and tank is topped of w plain water, engine starts OK a couple of times.
7) Within 1/4 to 1/2 mile on the road, white smoke is seen behind the vehicle, and the "Check Engine" light comes on. Pull over again.
8) When the flat bed gets there, the engine won't even turn over!!?? The tow truck guy has to winch it into loading position.
I'm having a trusted friend with a general purpose repair shop diagnose it, so I'll find out for sure by tomorrow, but seems like a head gasket so far, right?
Can you recommend a mechanic in the Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler area that is qualified for a FZJ-80 head gasket job?
Or, maybe in Prescott, if there is someone specially suitable.
It seems to have gone from no problems at all, to the engine won't even turn over in the space of half an hour and half a mile. Surprisingly sudden failure.
The wife is driving by herself on a visit to Prescott today, and this happens to her on the way through Prescott Valley.
The signs:
1) Sudden rough running when slowed down from highway speed to go through traffic lights. Engine almost stalling.
2) Engine temperature starts to climb. She pulls over into a parking lot to call me.
3) No external signs of fluid, leaks, puddles or anything.
4) Oil looks and smells normal.
5) (after cooling off 15 minutes) No coolant can be seen in the radiator (looking in the open cap). Coolant tank is way low.
6) After radiator and tank is topped of w plain water, engine starts OK a couple of times.
7) Within 1/4 to 1/2 mile on the road, white smoke is seen behind the vehicle, and the "Check Engine" light comes on. Pull over again.
8) When the flat bed gets there, the engine won't even turn over!!?? The tow truck guy has to winch it into loading position.
I'm having a trusted friend with a general purpose repair shop diagnose it, so I'll find out for sure by tomorrow, but seems like a head gasket so far, right?
, I read your post just after I submitted mine. Thanks for the info. I take it you are satisfied with their work.