Sludge in Hi Mileage 3.4 V6
 

Hello All:

Ownership of my '87 Toyota Ext. Cab 22R has been so positive, that I've decided to find a 4Runner for the tow vehicle I need for my 3500# camper. Have been looking at many high mileage (150k and up) 3rd gen 4Runners with the 3.4 V6 but have discovered that, with very few exceptions, they suffer from the dreaded "sludge in the oil cap and inside the valve cover" syndrome.

A site search has turned up a number of options for getting rid of sludge but I see it's presence as a red flag in regard to the vehicles overall maintenance and immediately walk away from any with that issue. (BTW, a check inside my own well maintained 22R shows minor varnish, but no sludge, and I define sludge as black grainy carbon). Have found a Limited with 225k that passes the test and has records back to day one and am negotiating with the current owner.

And, yes there is a question here:).

Am I being to fussy regarding the sludge issue? I know you are all very busy guys and gals, but I have a special favor to ask of all gen3 owners. Go out to your ride (any time in the next hour or so would be fine :-) and tell me what you find.

Also, comments on this subject would be very much welcome.

I look forward to benefiting from the collective wisdom that exists on this Forum.