1996 4runner- questions

[rngesci]

Hi all: First post although I have frequented the site a few times.

Just bought 1996 4runner, 3.4 liter, 5 speed manual, 4x4 SR5. The lady who owned it was a widow. Has 123,000 actual miles on it. She said she didn't think anyone had even sat in the backseat and the only thing she used the back end for was hauling some flowers every spring for her garden and some groceries.

Basically in a nut shell I can't find a scratch on this thing! Pristine shape.

Now my questions.

I have no further information on this rig. I am thinking I should start from scratch here and do a complete tune-up at the Toyota dealership. I had to replace the tires and put on Bridgestone Duel Revo's (seems like everyone loved these tires on other forums).

The Toyota dealership is saying I should also replace the timing belt and waterpump since I am starting over. The lady's son said he thought the timing belt looked good when he last checked, but didn't know any other history on the vehicle.

How much should I do? What would you all do?

I have also read that some owners replace the shocks right away to give a better ride. Should I be doing this as well?

Obviously money is going to come into play. I could go as much as $1000, but would prefer not to if I don't have to. just want to make sure I am doing the things that need/should be done.

Thanks so much for all the help out there.

Dan

 

[p nut]

I would definitely do all fluids. Engine, coolant, differentials, transfer case, transmission, etc. I suggest Amsoil synthetic, but whatever. (except transmission and coolant. Just use OEM).

Timing belt....well, you will get mixed inputs. Toyota dealerships SUGGEST 90k miles. And if you can do this, then do it. If the water pump is leaking, just have both done. But, if everything seems to be in good shape, PERSONALLY, I wouldn't worry about it. I have 110k miles on my Tacoma and the timing belt/water pump have not been replaced. I am going to wait till 150k or if the belt snaps--which ever comes first. It is a non-interference engine, so not a big deal, unless you're out in the middle of nowhere. Few people have posted going 200k on the original belt, but I wouldn't recommend that.

You will want to replace the suspension system, if you're looking for a better ride, as the 123k miles on a suspension is a lot. If you want a lift, I'd suggest OME products. But this alone will be around $700 just for parts, so if you have to have someone else do it, you will blow your budget.

Also, I'm thinking the spark plugs have not been changed out? I'd go ahead and replace them. Pretty easy to do yourself. And get OEM plugs from the dealership.

Check the sway bar bushings. Either get OEM bushings or order poly ureth. from Wheeler's. Also, the steering rack bushings. That will cost only $40 or something like that.

That's all I can think of for now, but that should keep you busy. :bigok:

 

[4Evr4RunN3R]

congrats on the new 4runner. as you can see in my forum name i have a 96 4runner. When i bought mine i did a major tune up on the truck. checked everything, changed what i had to change, and took it from there. as you go along you will find what needs to be looked at and replace it if necessary. if money is a problem then do a simple tune up and whenever you have some spare cash put it towards your truck to keep it going strong.

 

[rngesci]

Thanks "p nut" and "96runner 4x4"!! I appreciate all the feedback.

No plans to lift this thing. I want her just the way she is. Ordered in Husky floor liners for the floors.

Change the shocks? Ok, I need some help here. I am not by any means a mechanic (unless of course you would all like me to create new cuss words). What kind of shocks? Ranchero RS5000's or is there is "Toyota" shock I should go to for a reasonable price?

Here is some information....I will drive about 80% on a paved road. Some gravel roads to the farm, pulling the decoy trailer out in muddy/snowy fields, and hauling the boat to the lake. That is about it.

So I think this is where I am at then.....
1. Change all the fluids.
2. Full Tune-up (spark plugs, pulleys, etc..)
3. shocks? but not sure what kind....

I think I will hold off on the timing belt and water pump unless the toyota dealership spots something. That might be a good spring expense right before turkey season opens.

Once again, thanks everyone for the help.

 

[4Evr4RunN3R]

most people go with bilsteins from what ive seen. you could also look at the tockico trekmasters that were put on from the factory on some 4runners. I have the rancho rs5000 on the rear. I needed shocks and the ranchos were priced decently, but they are very stiff IMO. but again its whats in your budget.