1986 4Runner - Worth it?

[ScoobiDum]

I've been searching for a vehicle and found an '86 4Runner on Craigslist. It looks really nice, especially for an '86 but I'd like some input on it's reliability.

The add goes - "not the SR5 model, 181,xxx miles 4 cylinder 5 speed all stock, no sunroof one rip on the side of driver seat dents on one side but this vehicle is in very good shape, very minimal rust which is hard to find in the older 4runners"

I'm most concerned about the mileage and the fact that it's all stock. It'll be my first vehicle so if it only last for a few years then that's fine with me, I just don't want to get ripped off.

Appreciate the advice.

 

[T?@\7]

she looks good. Price? Can you have it checked out...head gasket leaks etc? If its not leaking at the hg than it should, as far as i know, last you a few years. It'd be a sick first vehicle, its my 4th and I LOVE IT!

 

[KidVermicious]

The 22re motor is awesome. You're not going to win any races with it, but it's near bulletproof. The miles are nothing to worry about either, these engines regularly make 250+ before needing a rebuild.

The one thing to specifically ask about is when the timing chain was last serviced. The chain guides are plastic and give out after a while, so be aware of that.

You didn't mention where you are or what the seller is asking, so I can't comment on the price. Other than that, it's just normal buyer-beware due diligence. Check the rig out, arrange to have your mechanic go over it, etc.

 

[ScoobiDum]

I live on Vancouver Island, B.C., Canada and the truck is in Vancouver (city). I'm all about outdoors - hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, so I'm going to be putting her to good use. I'm going over to look at it this weekend and plan on taking it to a mechanic while I'm there to get an assessment. He was asking for $3500 but it's been up for a few months now so Depending on what the mechanic finds I'll try to get him to drop the price accordingly.

Thanks for the advice, I'm feelin' a little more confident in the machine now.

 

[Hyde802]

The 22re motor is awesome. You're not going to win any races with it, but it's near bulletproof. The miles are nothing to worry about either, these engines regularly make 250+ before needing a rebuild.

The one thing to specifically ask about is when the timing chain was last serviced. The chain guides are plastic and give out after a while, so be aware of that.

You didn't mention where you are or what the seller is asking, so I can't comment on the price. Other than that, it's just normal buyer-beware due diligence. Check the rig out, arrange to have your mechanic go over it, etc.

I agree here. Also check the frame for rust. Its prone to have issues on the inside of the frame by the front spring hangers.

All stock is a good thing IMO. Means the truck hasn't been molested, and its all original.

 

[dem]

The Toyota commercials are so true, I gave my son the 84 toy 4wd that I bought new in 1984, It has the 22r and his odometer is at 320000. No major engine work and only the clutch once on the transmission. They last forever...

 

[dem]

Oh , and I forgot to add that the timing chain is original on 320000 miles. I only decided to let it go because the truck has been so good to us that if the chain snaps , I'm going to pay for a complete rebuild anyways.

 

[m1ke777]

3500 i think is a little steep