2nd Jan 2013, 23:58

I had my engine rebuilt, but I still had to get my head gasket fixed, twice. Do the copper seals make all the difference, or did I just have a bad job done on it?

I don't want to get rid of my truck, but I need advice in bringing it back to life again. I thought that having it rebuilt was gonna do that, but it didn't, and I also don't want to spend my life savings on fixing it again.

This was my main transportation all these years, and recently needed to purchase a car. I've had my truck for 14 years, and changed my oil every 3 months with synthetic blend. I would love to customize it and make it my weekend truck.

Please help! I'm in Southern California.

3rd Jan 2013, 15:38

Resale values have a lot to do with the vehicle's condition. I got 92 percent of my original purchase price (bought new) after 5 years and 55,000 miles for my Dodge truck, because it was in absolutely mint condition. My best friend just sold his 2009 Toyota Corolla for $3500, because it was a piece of crap.

7th Jul 2013, 22:18

It's July now, and reading your post, I hope you finally found a mechanic that knows how to do it right... most don't or won't.

After all the hassles, a crate motor from Toyota would be worth it. There's only been one car I've driven that had head gaskets replaced by the dealer and is still going strong, and that's my 91 SR5 4x4.

Be wary of the average shop, as the job is done poorly far too often.

8th Jul 2013, 16:35

This is one Toyota where I would replace everything rather than buy a new one. The new Toyotas in my opinion are nowhere near the build quality. If the frame is good, don't ever sell it. I would repaint and reupholster, rather than ever buy one after 2000.

16th May 2015, 03:05

I agree. At 335,000+ miles, my 1991 SR5 2WD is just beginning to show wear in the seats. The white paint will shine like new, except for the front cap, which I replaced after damaging both fenders, bumper, and the grille in accidents. I have spent over $1,000 in replacement parts and maintain it myself. Not bad for the life of the truck. It had 88 test miles on it when I purchased it in April, 1992. It's still fun to drive.