Need tech help, looking @ 91 MR2

[dsmyth8604]

Well, I saw an add in the local trader for a 91 MR2 Turbo. Called them up and got some wierd info on the car, I need help before I go and look at the car so that I don't overlook anything. I'm actually in Toyota schooling to be a Toyota technician and starting my job at a dealer next monday, but mostly go over new toyotas, and definatly nothing model specific that's that old. Here's what the seller told me

-Engine swapped to a 93 year, not known how many miles, rebuilt turbo, and engine is making a knocking noise and numerous people(including toyota techs ) have told her that the lifters are bad and need replacing. I know that some OHC engines do have lifters but I don't know much specifically about these cars. What could be the cause of this knocking/ticking noise she hears, possibly exhaust leak? She said I could drive the car, and she does every once in a while, so I don't think it's a bearing failure.

-How can I make sure this is in fact a 93 year model engine?

-She said the trans is out of a 95 MR2, how do I make sure it is in fact a 95 year model trans?

-What's the vin code for the turbo motor in a 91 MR2, so that I can make sure that it was even equipped with the turbo motor in the first place.

I've read as much as I can about these cars on this site and what to look for. I just need some assistance on these areas. Let me know what you guys thing

thanks
Dan

[mister3]

Originally Posted by dsmyth8604

Well, I saw an add in the local trader for a 91 MR2 Turbo. Called them up and got some wierd info on the car, I need help before I go and look at the car so that I don't overlook anything. I'm actually in Toyota schooling to be a Toyota technician and starting my job at a dealer next monday, but mostly go over new toyotas, and definatly nothing model specific that's that old. Here's what the seller told me

-Engine swapped to a 93 year, not known how many miles, rebuilt turbo, and engine is making a knocking noise and numerous people(including toyota techs ) have told her that the lifters are bad and need replacing. I know that some OHC engines do have lifters but I don't know much specifically about these cars. What could be the cause of this knocking/ticking noise she hears, possibly exhaust leak? She said I could drive the car, and she does every once in a while, so I don't think it's a bearing failure.

-How can I make sure this is in fact a 93 year model engine?

-She said the trans is out of a 95 MR2, how do I make sure it is in fact a 95 year model trans?

-What's the vin code for the turbo motor in a 91 MR2, so that I can make sure that it was even equipped with the turbo motor in the first place.

I've read as much as I can about these cars on this site and what to look for. I just need some assistance on these areas. Let me know what you guys thing

thanks
Dan

in the VIN code the turbo model starts with a SW22 -- NA models start with SW21

valvetrain noise isn't the most common issue with the 3sgte engines -- it's either rod bearing noise (can check by unplugging plug wires and knock goes away on offending cylinder) or exhaust leak (usually goes away when warmed up)

93 engines are distinguished by having a 9 bolt exhaust manifold or at least 9 studs on the exhaust side of head -- also could check the engine ID tag which is located under slave cylinder area on the block --- the trans ID tag is on the drivers side axle area -- can have the dealer decode these for ya