Hi guys I'm looking for a project 4runner. I know I want a 1st Gen and I'm almost certain I want the v6 engine in it. I'm having trouble finding a 4runner in my price range. All the ones that I have found are over priced and finished. I want to rebuild it from the grave. I am currently trying to find an 87, 88, or 89 I also want the sunroof so I guess only the SR5 models have that. I am willing to take a 4runner with no motor, thats how desperate I am. I am moving to Kent, WA (Seattle) in just a few months once I get done this Coast Guard specialty school. So I will be getting stationed in WA for the next 3 or 4 years and I want to built an off road camping rig for myself and for my family while I am out there. Someone on this site came across an engine-less 4runner for $500 out there, I was just too slow on jumping on the deal. So if anyone on this site lives out that way and knows where I can get a 4runner with no motor or one with a blown v6 for around $500-$1000 price range? Maybe even one from a junk yard at this point. Thanks in advance for any help.

this is what id do if i were you.
find a 4runner you like that has a good frame under it(& body depending...)
if you do want the v6 i recommend the 3.4 rather than the 3.0, mainly because the 3.4 is a much more reliable engine then the 3.0, and the 3.0 does not have as much power as the 3.4.

Thats exactly what I am trying to find, for some reason its hard to find a 4runner right now. I just can't seem to find one that someone is willing to part with for that price. I'm not too worried about the body, that can be fixed and painted. Thanks for the heads up on the engine I'll look more into the 3.4. Is the 3.4 a 2nd Gen engine or are they also in the 88 and 89 SR5's? Thanks again.

i think the 3.4s ran in 4rnrs from '96 or so and newer.
you should be able to search CL and be able to find one not to terribly off your price range, and not being from the pacific NW im sure rust is pretty bad up there...
you can search most any toyota forum and find info on the 3.0s vs. the 3.4

also keep an eye on pirate4x4.com for a truck. the classifieds on that site are always moving!

Thanks for the website, I'll have to add that to my list of daily checked sites to try and find one of these things.