User Tag List

Reply
 
Thread Tools Rate Thread Display Modes
Old 10-19-2020, 02:52 PM #1
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Potential 3rd Gen Buyer

Hey all,

I've owned about 8 Jeeps of various models, and have built all of them in some way shape or form, but I'd like something with a bit more interior room for my family (1 kid, but 3 dogs). I've been hunting for an FJ80 for a bit, and anything that's not rusted through is $14,000 or has literally 400,000 miles on it. With all of that in mind, I've widened my search to encompass 3rd gen 4 runners. I love the aesthetic, and most folks seem to be in consensus that they are generally pretty reliable. Generally being from the 90's I'd assume they're not OVERLY complicated to work on, either.

I'm right now looking at a 1999 with 120,5xx, 5 speed. The current owner got it after a family member died, and does not know how to drive a manual, nor does he know anything about it (maintenance, package, even the engine...) He's out of town until Saturday, and I figured I'd ask some folks who know what they're about what I should be on the lookout for.

Besides an abundance of rust, something I know too much about already, what should I make sure to scope out before any decision?

Thanks in advance!
Spruce_1984 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 03:32 PM #2
jgue467's Avatar
jgue467 jgue467 is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Austin, Texas
Posts: 3,145
jgue467 is just really nice jgue467 is just really nice jgue467 is just really nice jgue467 is just really nice jgue467 is just really nice
jgue467 jgue467 is offline
Senior Member
jgue467's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Austin, Texas
Posts: 3,145
jgue467 is just really nice jgue467 is just really nice jgue467 is just really nice jgue467 is just really nice jgue467 is just really nice
I recommend reading this first: 3rd Gen 4Runner Buyer's Guide - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum

With a 5 speed there is no worry about the dreaded 'pink milkshake'of an auto trans but an older radiator can still bust and cause problems.

If you want more power than the 3.4 can muster (which really is more than adequate for the average city or country drive), the 4th gens have an optional 4.7 v8 and are a tad larger, just a tad.

If not significant rust (can't poke thru it with a screwdriver) I'd go for it, especially is the price is right. Luck and let us know how it turns out....
__________________
2001 Limited 4WD - 346+K - SunfireRed\Thunder Cloud; - 265/75/16 Michelin A/T2s - Fat Pat's 1.5" BL - StopTech ANGLED rotors - In series 699 trans cooler, New Yota1 transmission, All new OEM suspension front to rear.
jgue467 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 03:50 PM #3
Malcolm99's Avatar
Malcolm99 Malcolm99 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: May 2020
Location: Ontario
Posts: 424
Malcolm99 has a spectacular aura about Malcolm99 has a spectacular aura about
Malcolm99 Malcolm99 is offline
Member
Malcolm99's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2020
Location: Ontario
Posts: 424
Malcolm99 has a spectacular aura about Malcolm99 has a spectacular aura about
I aways highly recommend a compression test on used vehicles, WOT, Pull the EFI fuse so you don't get fuel soaked readings. Check the plugs are NGK OR DENSO dual prong while at it and note condition for future change intervals. Frame Rot inspection on the lowest 4 corners and between the fuel tank, and body rot, check manual trans and rear diff fluids(add to list to change out regardless for a fresh change interval, good time to do the tcase, manual trans and front diff which often gets neglected), timing belt sticker of last T-belt job so you know when to change it next, a call to the local Toyota dealer where said Toyota is with VIN, see if you can talk them out of the service info done to this truck and do an odometer check of the last visit(this year had a fuel level gauge TSB and if they swapped the inclinometer in the dash the mileage would be zeroed out at that time and this should be documented at the dealer, all 99's where subject to this TSB. Check for steering rack play(easy fix) Add lower ballJoints and tierods to the list of to do items, and check all other moving points for play and for sources of leaks, especially rear outter axle seals. I expect the suspension is original so expect it to need doing, always a good idea to have an inspection done by a mechanic (preferably the guy the does the safety inspection) as a fresh eye might notice something you missed, I often gamble and do my own inspections. Also wouldn't hurt to inspect the paint near body panels and window trim to see if it has been resprayed, check VIN on all body panels to insure they match the truck, windows also have corresponding ID numbers if that matters, and test operation of 2wd 4H 4H locked 4L and RR DIFF LOCK operation if equipped(rr diff lock only works in 4L from factory without mods)Sounds like some low mileage for a 99', but I must say mine is mint still top and bottom at 290,000KM and I live in the rust belt, so be certain of the mileage. Sunroof and firewall leaks are another common issue noted by wet floors or stinky interior.
__________________
99' Ltd E-locker grey wired, 4R Bilstein 5100, 99 tall coils, 906 OME & 1.5" spacers, 2015 4R Trail Edition 275/70R17, 1" RB BL
97' SR5 E-locker grey wired, Warn winch, 2" RB BL, Sonoran Steel 1.2 lift, dual battery, 1000W inverter, Hydraulic Arctic plow, 12" x 33" Baja Claw
92' Eclipse GSX AWD 6/4 bolt combo, 28 PSI boost, Meth injection, 750cc injectors, FMIC, 2.5" IC piping, full 3" exhaust, 350AWHP, lowered, Alum flywheel, 6 puck Clutch, Cams, JDM gear set,VC rear diff, EPROM ECU
Malcolm99 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 03:51 PM #4
Kanoe's Avatar
Kanoe Kanoe is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Yukon
Posts: 1,317
Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice
Kanoe Kanoe is offline
Senior Member
Kanoe's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Yukon
Posts: 1,317
Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice
Pretty much the most desirable combination there. If it's got the elocker too even better. It'll sell in a heartbeat so don't wait too long.

I'd mostly be concerned with the frame rust. I wouldn't buy a rust bucket, personally I'd rather no engine.

If the price is right snag it, people are paying a lot for the 99/00 with a 5 speed. Later models are auto only and more electronics.

Edit: Most seem to spend $1-2,000 getting things up to snuff on a new purchase unless you have found the rare, good previous owner.
__________________
-1996 4Runner. 3RZ 5-Spd. 4x4 Base model. OME2906/Toyota OEM rears with 2004 Tacoma Dual Rate Fronts on Bilstien 4600s.
-1993 Corolla Wagon 7AFE
-2001 Echo D.D.

Last edited by Kanoe; 10-19-2020 at 03:57 PM.
Kanoe is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 03:52 PM #5
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Amen on the rust. I've had my share of Wranglers in pieces while I figure out how much of the frame I can save. I asked about frame rust and the guy said "somewhat" - Gotta love facebook marketplace conversations. I'm cool unless it's a 4 cylinder variety, and the price on it is already low and he says he's motivated. Thank you for the link to the buying guide...I should have assumed there was something like that here.
Spruce_1984 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 03:59 PM #6
Kanoe's Avatar
Kanoe Kanoe is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Yukon
Posts: 1,317
Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice
Kanoe Kanoe is offline
Senior Member
Kanoe's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Yukon
Posts: 1,317
Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice
Quote:
Originally Posted by Spruce_1984 View Post
Amen on the rust. I've had my share of Wranglers in pieces while I figure out how much of the frame I can save. I asked about frame rust and the guy said "somewhat" - Gotta love facebook marketplace conversations. I'm cool unless it's a 4 cylinder variety, and the price on it is already low and he says he's motivated. Thank you for the link to the buying guide...I should have assumed there was something like that
here.

There is really nothing wrong with a 4 cyl 5speed. Unless you are planning to add tons of weight. Perfectly acceptable configuration.
__________________
-1996 4Runner. 3RZ 5-Spd. 4x4 Base model. OME2906/Toyota OEM rears with 2004 Tacoma Dual Rate Fronts on Bilstien 4600s.
-1993 Corolla Wagon 7AFE
-2001 Echo D.D.
Kanoe is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 04:02 PM #7
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Quote:
Originally Posted by Malcolm99 View Post
I aways highly recommend a compression test on used vehicles, WOT, Pull the EFI fuse so you don't get fuel soaked readings. Check the plugs are NGK OR DENSO dual prong while at it and note condition for future change intervals. Frame Rot inspection on the lowest 4 corners and between the fuel tank, and body rot, check manual trans and rear diff fluids(add to list to change out regardless for a fresh change interval, good time to do the tcase, manual trans and front diff which often gets neglected), timing belt sticker of last T-belt job so you know when to change it next, a call to the local Toyota dealer where said Toyota is with VIN, see if you can talk them out of the service info done to this truck and do an odometer check of the last visit(this year had a fuel level gauge TSB and if they swapped the inclinometer in the dash the mileage would be zeroed out at that time and this should be documented at the dealer, all 99's where subject to this TSB. Check for steering rack play(easy fix) Add lower ballJoints and tierods to the list of to do items, and check all other moving points for play and for sources of leaks, especially rear outter axle seals. I expect the suspension is original so expect it to need doing, always a good idea to have an inspection done by a mechanic (preferably the guy the does the safety inspection) as a fresh eye might notice something you missed, I often gamble and do my own inspections. Also wouldn't hurt to inspect the paint near body panels and window trim to see if it has been resprayed, check VIN on all body panels to insure they match the truck, windows also have corresponding ID numbers if that matters, and test operation of 2wd 4H 4H locked 4L and RR DIFF LOCK operation if equipped(rr diff lock only works in 4L from factory without mods)Sounds like some low mileage for a 99', but I must say mine is mint still top and bottom at 290,000KM and I live in the rust belt, so be certain of the mileage. Sunroof and firewall leaks are another common issue noted by wet floors or stinky interior.
Awesome...thank you for this. The idea of contacting a local dealer to look up maintenance history is something I wouldn't have thought of.
Spruce_1984 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 05:34 PM #8
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Quote:
Originally Posted by Kanoe View Post
There is really nothing wrong with a 4 cyl 5speed. Unless you are planning to add tons of weight. Perfectly acceptable configuration.
I actually did manage to find out that it's a 6
Spruce_1984 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 08:32 PM #9
RandyBobandy's Avatar
RandyBobandy RandyBobandy is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2019
Location: Southwest PA
Posts: 623
RandyBobandy is just really nice RandyBobandy is just really nice RandyBobandy is just really nice RandyBobandy is just really nice RandyBobandy is just really nice
RandyBobandy RandyBobandy is offline
Member
RandyBobandy's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2019
Location: Southwest PA
Posts: 623
RandyBobandy is just really nice RandyBobandy is just really nice RandyBobandy is just really nice RandyBobandy is just really nice RandyBobandy is just really nice
I actually prefer to buy them super clapped out and rusty and the weld a ton of new metal onto the frame then spend like 10k turning a $1000 4runner into a $3500 4runner, that’s where all the fun is
RandyBobandy is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 09:33 PM #10
brillo_76's Avatar
brillo_76 brillo_76 is offline
Elite Member
 
Join Date: May 2017
Location: Western PA
Posts: 6,012
Real Name: Jon
brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute
brillo_76 brillo_76 is offline
Elite Member
brillo_76's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2017
Location: Western PA
Posts: 6,012
Real Name: Jon
brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute
Quote:
Originally Posted by RandyBobandy View Post
I actually prefer to buy them super clapped out and rusty and the weld a ton of new metal onto the frame then spend like 10k turning a $1000 4runner into a $3500 4runner, that’s where all the fun is
Most people arent like us Randy. ;)

Sent from my SM-J337V using Tapatalk
__________________
7 3rd gens listed in the build thread (2 are parts mobiles)
Build Thread: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...os-builds.html
Brillo's Bucket Fluid Ex changer: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...ml#post3358086
Sparks Plugs Wire and Coil Information: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...on-5vz-fe.html
brillo_76 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-19-2020, 09:43 PM #11
brillo_76's Avatar
brillo_76 brillo_76 is offline
Elite Member
 
Join Date: May 2017
Location: Western PA
Posts: 6,012
Real Name: Jon
brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute
brillo_76 brillo_76 is offline
Elite Member
brillo_76's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2017
Location: Western PA
Posts: 6,012
Real Name: Jon
brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute
Just verify it's not really rusted frame unless you like to hobby weld like I do. Mostly the rust belt will eat the frames up. Along with the rockers and rear fender wells. I brought a few back from going to the junk yards. [ still tinkering with them]

Check the fluids. Listen to it run. Verify nobody try to hide a warn out clutch by adjusting the pedal and put a spring on it.

Also dead give away for that scenario is the cruise control will not work.

Listen for a smooth clean idle when warm with very little rpm gauge movement.

Make sure all 5 gears and reverse work properly and your transfer case functions properly.





Sent from my SM-J337V using Tapatalk
__________________
7 3rd gens listed in the build thread (2 are parts mobiles)
Build Thread: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...os-builds.html
Brillo's Bucket Fluid Ex changer: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...ml#post3358086
Sparks Plugs Wire and Coil Information: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...on-5vz-fe.html
brillo_76 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-23-2020, 03:56 PM #12
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
This wasn't the one I posted about, but a different one I went to look at. I've never seen a control arm break so evenly, lol.

[IMG][/IMG]
Spruce_1984 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-23-2020, 04:01 PM #13
Kanoe's Avatar
Kanoe Kanoe is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Yukon
Posts: 1,317
Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice
Kanoe Kanoe is offline
Senior Member
Kanoe's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Yukon
Posts: 1,317
Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice Kanoe is just really nice
Yeah, don’t buy that one. At least you know what to look for in the future!
__________________
-1996 4Runner. 3RZ 5-Spd. 4x4 Base model. OME2906/Toyota OEM rears with 2004 Tacoma Dual Rate Fronts on Bilstien 4600s.
-1993 Corolla Wagon 7AFE
-2001 Echo D.D.
Kanoe is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-23-2020, 04:06 PM #14
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Spruce_1984 Spruce_1984 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Indiana
Posts: 42
Spruce_1984 is on a distinguished road
Quote:
Originally Posted by Kanoe View Post
Yeah, don’t buy that one. At least you know what to look for in the future!
Lol...yeah. He said he'd take $900, and I thought about it for a second but he mentioned that it also uses 1/2 quart of coolant every two weeks.
Spruce_1984 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Old 10-23-2020, 04:47 PM #15
brillo_76's Avatar
brillo_76 brillo_76 is offline
Elite Member
 
Join Date: May 2017
Location: Western PA
Posts: 6,012
Real Name: Jon
brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute
brillo_76 brillo_76 is offline
Elite Member
brillo_76's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2017
Location: Western PA
Posts: 6,012
Real Name: Jon
brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute brillo_76 has a reputation beyond repute
Quote:
Originally Posted by Spruce_1984 View Post
This wasn't the one I posted about, but a different one I went to look at. I've never seen a control arm break so evenly, lol.

[IMG][/IMG]
I have. That one has frame issues...;) I have 4 that were in need a frame repair.

Sent from my SM-J337V using Tapatalk
__________________
7 3rd gens listed in the build thread (2 are parts mobiles)
Build Thread: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...os-builds.html
Brillo's Bucket Fluid Ex changer: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...ml#post3358086
Sparks Plugs Wire and Coil Information: https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...on-5vz-fe.html
brillo_76 is offline   Reply With QuoteReply With Quote
Reply

Tags
3rd , bit , family , folks , generally

Thread Tools
Display Modes Rate This Thread
Rate This Thread:

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is On

Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Potential Buyer Needs Help... ECUDrummer New Members 10 03-02-2016 06:02 PM
Potential 3rd Gen Buyer 4OYOTER 3rd gen T4Rs 12 09-27-2015 03:18 PM
Potential Buyer... Help! bearcat New Members 2 08-22-2014 10:27 AM
Potential buyer, what to look for liftitup 5th gen T4Rs 2 01-15-2014 03:46 PM
Potential buyer needs advice: V8, V6, 4WD RTAYLOR 4th Gen T4Rs 64 01-09-2009 11:55 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.2

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 07:12 PM.

Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.
Search Engine Optimisation provided by DragonByte SEO (Pro) - vBulletin Mods & Addons Copyright © 2024 DragonByte Technologies Ltd.
Feedback Buttons provided by Advanced Post Thanks / Like (Lite) - vBulletin Mods & Addons Copyright © 2024 DragonByte Technologies Ltd.
User Alert System provided by Advanced User Tagging (Lite) - vBulletin Mods & Addons Copyright © 2024 DragonByte Technologies Ltd.
***This site is an unofficial Toyota site, and is not officially endorsed, supported, authorized by or affiliated with Toyota. All company, product, or service names references in this web site are used for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners. The Toyota name, marks, designs and logos, as well as Toyota model names, are registered trademarks of Toyota Motor Corporation***Ad Management plugin by RedTyger
 
Copyright © 2020