Blow-by from pistons - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

tmarsh · 03-28-2008, 10:17 AM

So, My Camry is dying, I believe it was driven with low oil at one time. The mechanics, 2 different ones, mentioned the need for an engine rebuild, due to blow-by from the piston rings. Now I am just debating if this is worth my time and money. It has about 158,000 miles. has had some major work done, over a year ago, rear main seal, clutch.

Just wondering what my options are, and if an engine rebuild is worthwhile, can you point me to the best type of place for that? I am in Austin, TX, if that matters. Thanks

Any advice would be appreciated.

BlueFusion6851 · 03-28-2008, 11:28 AM

If it was driven with low oil, your biggest worry would be scoring of your cylinder walls, possible bearing failure, etc. The mileage isn't really a big deal, since there are more than a couple 3rd generation camry's with over 250k and even over 300k miles.

The biggest question though, how long are you going to be driving this car? If you intend on driving it into the ground, this is a worthwhile investment. But, if you plan on sellng it in 2 years, maybe just do what you can to ensure that it will last that long.

My two cents.

Kep · 03-28-2008, 01:40 PM

While you are considering alternatives I believe it would be a good idea to ensure that the PCV valve is clean and functioning properly in case any pressure is migrating to the crank case.

Kep

rn8849 · 03-28-2008, 11:25 PM

mechanical help

Please see this link for a discussion about checking for compression.

What are the symptoms? Is it smoking, losing power, fouling plugs?

Gary

BTW, Howdy neighbor!

tmarsh · 03-29-2008, 02:37 PM

It seems to have lost a little get up and go. The other day I drove through Austin rush hour traffic and it died a couple of times. not sure if it is related, but it seemed like it really started to have trouble picking up speed. The negative battery cable has been loose, causing it to not start up, but a quick tightening and it was fine...could this relate to the problem on the dying while driving? It had not done that before. When it died, the battery light came on and the llittle car with the lines pointing out the back...what is that? brake light warning?

tmarsh · 03-29-2008, 02:39 PM

bluefusion...It has been driven with low oil when it had a leak. Would it last that long by not rebuilding? Just wondering how long it would take before it is no longer driveable. Also, how much would it cost to rebuild? I was quoted between $2k and 4k. Does this sound right?