Everything Bill and Harry said is true.

But the more I look at these boards, the more I sit back and say "hey, this 3.0 motor ain't so bad". Sure both have their issues, and I think they certainly do, but when I drive down the road, I simply have the luxury of more torque and power. Sure we don't know why this 86 turbo truck had it's top end done so early, but that fact is it apparently did. Similarly, we don't know why the 3.0's might have their issues early, but apparently they do. The point is, they both have issues but one makes driving much more pleasant than the other.

You nailed it Harry, simply drive examples of both and see what is best for your needs. I have myself suggested that many times in these discussions. I did that hence my decision on the V6. I figure my engine's first priority is to move the vehicle effectively. Second I'd like to to be long lasting, third easy to work on, etc...

Bill, interesting note on taking gambles on fit/finish/tolorances, etc... when I first tore into the front end of my motor to change the water pump, I, after looking around the entire engine bay, got the impression that this motor was rushed to production. The hoses and other components seem haphazardly strewn about the engine bay. Possibly, that is in fact true and contributed to what could be a tolerance oversight in the cylinder head/ block department. After all, look at what was out there in '89. Ford had the Explorer with it's 4.0 litre option. The blazer had the 4.3 litre option. I don't know what Nissan had. At any rate, I'm sure Toyota was rightfully afraid of losing sales. After all, a 3.0 ain't a powerhouse but the 2.4 against a 4.0/4.3, fahgeddaboudit. Likely they simply rushed this engine to production.

The first time I got a look at a 3.4, I immediately noticed how neat and tidy things are under the hood. A pleasant departure.

Well whether you like the either engine I'm sure we can all agree the 3.4 is the best way to go. Easy to install, lots of torque/power, and tasty upgrades as well.

Frank.