Hi all,

Long time reader, first time poster. I've had my 98 SR5 for 6 years now, and think the 4Runners are the best machine ever built, hands-down. No need to convince me of that. However, my current one is RWD and I'm moving to Colorado, so want a 4x4. I want to stick to the 3d Gen, as that's what I know and am very familiar with working on them. However, I don't know anything about 4WD, its components, or what I should look out for, especially w/regards to the 3d Gen's now getting up there in age. This is one I'm looking at, who's exterior and interior look great for its age (also relatively low miles):

1997 Toyota 4Runner 4dr Limited 3.4L Auto 4WD - Inventory | Salem Autos | Auto dealership in Arlington, Texas

Looking at the pic of the engine, I notice all the bolts & fasteners (basically anything steel) looks corroded, and the CARFAX shows the car spent most of its life in Illinois. Before I drive 5 hours to see it (availability is limited where I live) what, specifically, about the 3d Gen 4x4's should I look out for? Thanks!

Put it in 4wheel and make sure the light on dash lights up solid and then turn both ways lock to lock. Have sure you don't hear popping from the front like metal on metal. Put it in low and do the same it will have to be put into neutral to get into low. Make sure the tires leave marks and it feels different then when just in 2wheel. Looks good other then that.

I bought a 98 4runner, looks identical to that one same color even, with 162k miles on it pretty much sight unseen about 6 months ago. I did take it for a test drive when I got there, and everything worked fine, tested out the 4x4 quite a bit out in a field too. paid $5700, so that price looks about right. I would say ya its worth the drive.

I noticed that it has the button for 4WD on the 4X lever, I didn't think that was on the 3rd Gen until a little later.
My 97 doesn't have that.
I'm sure someone else can provide a little more insight.

Also, that area of Arlington isn't exactly known for their legit dealerships. Just a heads up.

Looks pretty good but yeah the rusty bolts & fasteners are a bit puzzling
and up here in Canada, salt is a staple.
Mine I've had since new and don't suffer the same problem.(290k miles)
The push button 4WD is standard on LTD's.

Check the undercarriage for rust , frame for rust holes .

Check the undercarriage for rust , frame for rust holes .

My guess is that someone did an under the hood cleaning and left on the cleaning stuff too long or something like that. Nonetheless, you should very carefully check the frame to make sure there is no through rust.

-Check the CV boots, listen for a ticking while driving, look for grease build up around LCA's
-Illinois major cities are part of the rust belt so def check for rust on the frame
-Its a multimode Xfercase so engage the 4WD (listen for clunks, grinding, anything metal on metal) you can go up to 60MPH in 4Hi w/o lockers engaged
-It also looks to have either the RR Diff Lock or Center diff lock, I would test those as well

Unless you are pressed for time I would wait for a TX only 4runner, but it "looks" to be in good condition. Good Luck!