Auto Parts: Rav4 engine, autowrecker, cam sensor

Question
QUESTION: I have a 1999 Rav4 with a blown 2.0 engine. I have a line on a used 2.0 replacement from a 1997. Both are 4x4's..mine is standard,the other automatic. Will they interchange? A autowrecker told me there was a differance but didn't know what.

ANSWER:      According to the information that I have, the '97 will work if it was made after September of '97.  If it was made prior to Sept. '97 then it has a whole different control system and could not be made to work in the '99.  The easiest way to tell them apart is the '97's lack of a cam sensor, it uses a different type of fuel injection.

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QUESTION: Hi again. I'm waiting for a answer from the fellow who's selling the engine. If the rav was built before Sept would the block be the same? I was thinking I could swap parts from one to the other as my block has a hole thru the side of it. Ron.

Answer
    There's no way for me to tell that.  Even if it's the same casting, it could be machined differently.  These Japanese engines, especially Hondas and to a lesser extent Toyotas, are assembled to a much greater degree of precision than American or European manufacturers are used to.  There is a lot of custom-fitting done during engine assembly.  It would take a very knowledgeable machinist to swap parts between two engines.  You'd be best off finding a good used engine or having the old one rebuilt by someone who knows how.  The good used engine is the best route to go.