1990 3VZE Problems

Hey guys, first time posting...
1990 V6 4wd converted to Manual transmission
So a few weeks ago I bought this 4runner, it was in working order but right after I bought it started with the blueish smoke from the exhaust (burning oil, been looking for the leakage and believe I have found it), other than that it was running great. Fast forward to yesterday, took it out for a beach day and ran great the way there (1 hr trip), but on the way back something happened. If I let go of the gas pedal it would start to do some kind of pull or sway back from the motor then out of nowhere backfired with black smoke. From then on it had no idle, I had to keep her revved in order to maintain her running, if I let go of the throttle it would stall and the smell of gas was evident. No problem starting back up.
Today looking around the engine and after having her rest since yesterday she fired back up and kept a fairly good idle but with an evident problem. Found out 3 of the spark plugs were not working or were not receiving energy (car turned on and started taking out each of the connectors one by one when I noticed that 3 of them were not affecting the idle when disconnected).
My question is, would changing these spark plugs and ensuring they are working properly, potentially fix this problem?

Also, I was thinking that the EGR vavle may be clogged or malfunctioning but I believe the EGR delete was done 2 owners ago, I did not find the EGR valve, and the previous owner didn't even know what is an EGR.

 

Bada$$ 4R!
Ya start with plugs hope it’s not injectors. Take pics of the old plugs?

 

Great looking 4runner and welcome. I would also check your spark plug wires and distributer.

 

so quick update since not much has happened since the problem started. I haven't been able to take the old spark plugs out, apparently previous owners changed the bolt size for wtv reason and the spark plug tool I have is too small (13/16), I tried with a 7/8 (one size bigger) but no joy. Finally ordered one 15/16 and I'm waiting on that to see if it finally works. I also ordered the distributor cap($8!) and plug cables ($38) (I'm slowly trying to swap all hoses and cables in the engine bay).

Once I get everything here I'll post pictures and updates on the work. Thank you for answering guys, really appreciate it.

 

I’m not sure if it common in your year model, but make sure the tube between MFS and throttle body is not ripped.

 

Welcome from Arizona!