When I checked it out, it was perfect under the hood, all of the fluid levels were good, and all the fluids were clean. I can't find any record that the previous owner ever had the timing belt replaced (manual calls for 90K mile service) and never changed the spark plugs (if they are every 60k, it is doubly overdue!). Surprisingly, the onboard computer says that the previous owner has been betting a bit over 20mpg, which tells me that the engine has to be running good at least.

Now that my long winded story is over, what maintanence items would you do to get this 4Runner back on track? Should I get the waterpump and belt tensioner replaced when I do the timing belt? I am probably going to try and do the plugs myself if I can find a thread that guides me through it. Are there any other items that I should do as a precaution? I will be doing some mild off roading and don't want to get stranded. I read that some models have weak wheel lugs and that concerned me a bit, but I don't know if it is worth changing them out pre-emptively.

Thanks for any help!

Toyota's recommendation at 120k miles. I would go back to the previous intervals and make sure those items at those mileage and/or time points have been serviced.

The V8 has 100k plugs. You'll want to change the other fluids (brake, power steering, transmission, diff, coolant, etc.) if they haven't been replaced already. The mileage computer is about 10% optimistic for most. I don't recall seeing any incidents with the lugs breaking off while driving or wheeling, but most of them are during wheel reinstallation.

The first thing I do when I buy a used vehicle is change the oil and oil filter. Better safe than sorry. I use OEM Toyota oil filters myself. Take a look at the air filter too.

I'd take a look here first to see if there is any record of the timing belt being done: Toyota Owners Online | Official Toyota Owners Website

Registration is free, you will need your VIN.

Then pull the wheels an take a good look at the condition of your brakes too. Especially the little caliper slide pins. If this truck was anywhere near snow/salt those things most likely need to be removed and wirebrushed/sanded or replaced and re-lubricated. In my opinion the brakes on these 4Runners are the weak point. They require preventative maintenance to keep in good condition.

If you can find no record of it being changed to the diff/T-case fluids as shown here:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/mainte...-included.html

Also lube the driveshaft:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/mainte...ting-pics.html

Excellent point. There are quite a few who have experienced the 4Runner's front calipers pistons siezing on them. A good way to keep it exercised is when rotating your tires, take a clamp and compress the pistons back into the caliper. (Just remember to pump the brakes before you go for a drive afterwards.)

TIMING BELT

There should be a sticker indicating the mileage and date when the Timing Belt was done(mine have one). If serviced by Toyota, they will usually recommend the water pump and the estimate $ is usually a package.

Since many 4th gens are above 100k now, Its good to have a sticky about when, where and how much they pay for it as it is a costly maint...imagine I was qouted $1,200 by firestone for Tbelt and H2O pump and someone here paid $1,500.

SR5 2003 V8
T-Belt/H20 Pump serviced : 92,600 mi
BY : Elk Grove(CA) Toyota/Scion
Paid: $700 out d door including tax

Toyota gave me a verbal quote of $459 to do the timing belt. I hope that wasn't a lie (or they thought I meant drive belt?). I am going to have that done right away and have them do the waterpump at the same time. I already ordered plugs (the Denso SK20R11).

As for the brakes, is there a recomended upgrade? I guess I will have to search around in the 4th gen forum to see what others are doing. I did feel that the brakes were a little weak when I drove it.

Don't judge the book by it's cover. Take it to the stealership and have them do a 128-point or thorough inspection. IMHO.

Just got back from Toyota of Orange. The OTD total was $934.
What they replaced:
Timing Belt
Water Pump
Thermostat
Serpentine Belt

I don't think I got taken too bad ;)

Good !
Serpentine belt alone can cost $160 in dealers. Also having it done by Toyota, I think we are covered for 12 months against defective materials or worksmanship, plus they should be using genuine parts.

I took a look at the transmission dipsick: looked crystal clear and at the full level. I also noticed that there was a message printed on the dipstick saying that it never needed to be replaced. By the look of the fluid (that I saw) I would have to agree. Is there any point in changing it just to check the magnets in the bottom of the pan?

Hope they put an upgraded transmission oil in there or sumthin'. lol Mine is bright red.

mine is red too, I just meant that it didn't have any contaminants.