good buys for a 4afe engine?

Question

Hey, I have a 94 Corolla that the old engine freezed up on. It suffered from a lack of oil changes before I started caring for it. Eventually the sludge clogged the oil screen and, to keep it simple, it had an aneurysm.

I got a junkyard 4AFE engine for about $200 and replaced it myself. I hadn't done this before so I didn't want to put too much money into it. The job wasn't as hard as I thought it might be, and the car is running again. The new engine isn't that great though. It knocks somewhere in the cams and seems to run rich even though I replaced the O2 sensor.

Since I know how to do it now, I'd like to put a new or pro-rebuilt engine in this car. So, my question is where the best place to find one is. Should I keep on the local hunt (Tampa Bay)? are these foreign sales on Ebay a good deal? Any other places to order? Seems like prices run from $550 for as-is to $900 for clean, and more for something fancy. I'd appreciate some input.

Thanks.

john.

Hach · Accepted Answer

Some Japanese engine require a rewiring of the harness and the ECU to operate properly. Look on E-Bay at Supras or Corolla GTS' that say "JDM engine swap started". Because itr can be a bitch to do correctly.

However, if you keep the intake and manifolds from your old engine and don't want a power upgrade this can be done. Also, check Toyota. For what you spend for a Japanese engine you can sometimes get a *new* shortblock from Toyota.

And you say 'knock'. A knock is usually in the lower part of the engine and indicates a bearing or rod on the way out. if it's a clicking it may be normal valve noise, or the valves need shimming.

Ray O · Answer

If you are hearing noise from the top end of the engine, try checking valve lash first.  It may only need a valve adjustment.

good buys for a 4afe engine?

Join the Discussion

Didn't find your answer?