1KZ-TE Cracked heads

[Skexis Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Skexis]

Hi. When looking at a used Prado how can you tell if the heads are cracked? What are the signs?
Thanks

[GeeWhizz Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close GeeWhizz]

Thankfully, I haven't witnessed it in a Prado but usually you remove the radiator cap (when cold) and start the engine. If there is oil floating on the coolant or bubbles appearing on the surface then it's cause for concern. Usually, a diesel will also run rough or sound uneven because it is so dependent on high compression.

[Bazza22 Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Bazza22]

I had one that did it twice and the usual signs like water in the oil or bubbling in the radiator weren’t there! The give away both times was foamy white gunk under the oil cap, using water and steam out the exhaust. If looking at one, go for a good drive and then check under the oil fill cap to ensure the seller hasn’t cleaned the white stuff off otherwise the symptoms can be hidden easily..... Oh and both times the car was running fine and wasn’t rough. Good luck!