Symptoms
Not a failure so much as prevention: the crossover pipe that runs behind the engine puts heat into the back of the heads, which 4Runners.com members link to cylinder 6 head-gasket failures.
The fix, step by step
- Remove the factory crossover pipe and blank off or re-route the rear manifold so both banks exit separately or join further back.
- Yota1's 1988–95 3VZ crossover delete kit supplies the manifold-side parts, but the kit doesn't include the pipe — additional exhaust work is required.
Tools & part numbers
- Penetrating oil
- stud extractors
- new gaskets and nuts
- Yota1 3VZ 3.0 exhaust crossover delete kit
Where to buy the parts
3VZ 3.0 exhaust crossover delete kit (1988–95)Yota1 Performance ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Toyota 4Runner 2nd Gen parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.