Odie, internet forums are like the Wild West (ranging from extremely good to extremely bad). My advice to you is when you get "flamed" by someone, just totally ignore it (as if the post were not there).
Also, the information posted is often at least partially wrong (including mine), but in aggregate, the information is often amazingly helpful. I agree with foompla's assesment that the dealer probably rebuilds the engine in the way described.
I would suggest you get a trade-in price quote from the Toyota dealer(s) and from one of the big superstores (CarMax, AutoNation). Remember that the Toyota dealer can sell the car with an extended warranty meaning that most people will pay the dealer more than they would pay you for the car.
If you have the time and inclination, you can get more if you seel it yourself. But then you have to deal with strangers and being careful not to get scammed (like a counterfeit Cashiers check). So you either have to accept a huge bag of cash or you have to do the transaction at the buyers bank that the check is issued from.
I found useful information here
www.carbuyingtips.com Yes, they are trying to sell you stuff, but if read through the website, you will be more informed.
I think that a new RAV4 sounds like a good choice for you, especially if you get the 4 cylinder model that gets quite good highway mileage (as long as you keep your speed down to about 70 mph). The new Camry also looks very nice. It is a matter of personal taste.
Addendum: A "Fax Attack" idea I got from the
www.carbuyingtips.com website or a link he recommended did save me over $2000 when buying a Lexus IS300 3 years ago.
