rebuild bottom end or 22re?

[sigmatero]

I picked up an 87 4Runner with about 200k on it and am starting to build it up as a mild prerunner. It has a dead cylinder so it needs engine work. I'm betting it's the head. If it isn't the head then of course I'll have to tear into the bottom end but if it is would you all recommend pulling the engine and rebuilding the bottom end or just doing the head (with a RV cam so I have a little more torque).

Or in other words- how often do these tough little engines need to have the bottom end rebuilt?

Thanks folks.

Joa

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[JasonHutter]

I've got an '87 with 270,000 miles and just developed a rod knock. I have driven it hard for the last 10 years and it's finally ready to retire. I would say while you are doing the work and digging into the motor, a refresh of the bottom end wouldn't hurt if its in the budget. Always remember, if you do it now it will be cheaper than fixing it after it blows-up!

Jason
Fire Guys Racing

[22REKid]

how often do these tough little engines need to have the bottom end rebuilt?

There is no real good answer for this question. The only thing I can tell you is to rebuild it when it needs it. My 86 4Runner had 202,000 on it when I got it when I was 16 and I flogged it hard and finally had to rebuild it at 320,000. I now have an 86 truck with 280,000 that has been virtually trouble free. It just all depends on the care that it has had by the previous owner and you. I would figure out the problem and act accordligly. Don't let 200k scare you.

[jesusgatos]

Personally, I wouldn't put any money into rebuilding a 22RE- just swap-in a 2.7L 3RZ from a Tacoma. Search Pirate4x4 if you want to know more about what the swap entails.