5SFE, what blocks swap?

[a2gsx]

Sorry if this thread has been beaten to death, but I searched and couldn't find what I was looking for.

I have a 98 Camry with a 5SFE. It threw a rod out the front of the block. I need a shortblock, but what can I use? I know 98 was the start of a new Generation, but will any of the older engine blocks work? I am having some trouble finding a 98 or newer engine for a price I'm willing to pay considering I only need the bottom half. Thanks in advance,
Ryan

[CamZilla]

Old block fits in perfect me and a bud swaped one into and old (1998) 423000km taxi he got. Use a 1992 5sfe block we had rebuild at school.

[Mike Gerber]

I don't know the cause of the thrown rod in your case, but are you familiar with the oil sludge problem (Toyota calls it "oil gelling") of the generation 4 5SFE engines? Toyota sent out extended warranty letters to most owners. It has been covered many times on this forum. If your problem was the result of oil sludging and you are under the mileage limit (don't remember if it was 120,000 or 150,000 miles), Toyota might cover the cost of your repair. Do a search. It might be worth your time.

Mike

[a2gsx]

Thanks for the info.
Were there any perticular parts you needed? Flex plates? Mounts? or was it a 100% bolt up fit?
This would work out very well if I can use a block from an early 90's car. Those motors seem to be highly available and very cheap.

As for the warranty, I bought the car broke. It went to the dealer and was not covered. I think under this situation Toyota would probably not help me make a proffit on this 130K old car.

Ryan

[Mike Gerber]

As for the warranty, I bought the car broke. It went to the dealer and was not covered. I think under this situation Toyota would probably not help me make a proffit on this 130K old car.

Ryan,

In your case, I am affraid you are correct. Thanks for responding and clarifying that point.

Mike

[a2gsx]

So is this confirmed by anyone else? (I just like to get input from more than one person whenever possible) Is there anything I will need except a 5SFE block to put into my 98 and a upper engine gasket set? If this is all I need I'll be hitting the ground running with this project.
Thanks,
Ryan