1998 4Runner Advise

[UTEP]

Hi,

I am in the market for my 1st 4x4 and think a 4Runner will fit the bill. I had seen high ratings for a 1998 Limited and wouldn't ya know the 1st local one I found is just this! For $3500 it sounds like a deal BUT it's a little rough in spots.

The body is fine and the top of the engine looks show room clean but there is a lot of oil around the bottom end and the I guess transfer case in the front. Almost caked on the case. But is starts right up and purrs! 190k miles on it...

It also grinds a little going into 4x4 and needs tires. I bet I could get it for $3000, maybe a little less.

I know it is impossible diagnose issues with vehicles on-line but oil leaks aren't the end of the world...I see them going for closer to $5k+ so does allotting another $2k +/- make this a good deal.

Are they really that hard to find? Like I said first one I saw!

My budget is $6000-$7000. I'm a geologist and need a 4x4 for field work and long hwy miles. Any other advice eagerly sought!

Thanks,

Warren
aka
UTEP

 

[SJC4Runner]

Are you sure you are using the proper procedure for putting it in 4wd? It will grind if you don't have the transmission in neutral. On my 99, I can use the button on the side to go into 4wd high, but I am pretty sure that anything else the transmission should be in neutral, esp for 4 low. I rarely use anything other than 4 hi using the button so I forget the procedure, but it is on the sun visor on my 99. All the different years use pretty a much different transmission/4wd system, so make sure you know the right procedure for your truck.

FYI the 99 has much better cup holders than the 98. Well worth it imho. You can retrofit if you find yourself with a pre 99.

 

[UTEP]

Are you sure you are using the proper procedure for putting it in 4wd?

Yea I'm sure it was in neutral. It was difficult to get in 4L. Pushed the side button as well.

The synchro is going out on my 2000 Taco so I'm used to grinding but I should probably avoid that in my next vehicle...!

Obviously I am beyond ignorant on 4R's.

Any advice on what $7000 can get me?

Thanks,

W

 

[PitbullRescuer]

$7,000 should get you a newer, lower mile 3rd Gen 4Runner. The one you're asking about doesn't sound bad but I bet you could get a 99+ (few little upgrades from 99+ over the 96-98's). I'd continue searching since you have the budget to do so.

 

[OrangeTexan]

It shouldn't grind going into 4x4 and you don't need to be in neutral. If I recall correctly you just have to be under 60mph and hit the button to go into 4x4. I've done it plenty of times around 50mph with no grinding.

That truck sounds like more trouble than its worth if you plan on using it for a daily work truck.

 

[Park]

I would probably think twice about that truck. the leaks arent a huge deal but they would have me worried. You can probably get a much nicer 4Runner on your budget. Keep looking and good luck

 

[UTEP]

Thanks!

Thanks for the help.

W

 

[chadsy]

If you are good with a wrench and like the truck, get it for 3K and use the leftover money to fix the few little quirks. She should last you a long time if you take care of it.

 

[jmildoc]

MINE DOESNT GRIND GOING INTO 4LO.

I think that the price is right if you are willing to put more money into it, but like others said the upgrades from 98-99 are something you will miss.

trust me I have done a few swaps from 01's to my 98, cup holders and such.

my next one is the overhead console, I on the other hand like having manual AC controls.

 

[white_n_slow]

$3k is a good deal, IMO as long as you are handy with a wrench and have some free time and shop space to replace the seals. If you're a "take it to the mechanic" sort of guy, I would probably pass.