If you're living in San Diego
If you're living in San Diego on Social Security(SSI) One needs to look at all options and aspects before a final decision can be made, especially when you've got No (Mechanic-Friends) and yur only options are 2-Separate quotes: #1-From a Dealer of($6400) and #2-(PrivtMechanc Dealer Hater($4400)! The *Light of Truth* gets brighter every time I talk to a repairman!
So the used engine option, becomes a viable possibility, and if you're going that route, what's the harm in a $85.00 Bottle of Gasket Sealer, before my next $1500. investment for a low milage used engine...
And 50,000 Mi's later, the Motor's still running & humming like new(without any coolant loss) has given me the proper time to save money for any other unexpected repair...and since I made the (BlueDevil)leap of faith...I'd likely repeat the process before traveling down any other path...!!!
When I purchased the Prius New, on the assumption that it was good for at least a 300,000Mi. Before any excessive repairs, the sudden head gasket issue was a shocking one, especially with a spouse under major medical care... there are many reasons for not going the logical route!