88 4runner purchase advice

[badhabt]

Okay, first post, I've been lurking for awhile, and now that I'm buying my first 1st gen 4runner, I could really use some advice.

I'm looking at an 88 6cyl, 2nd owner, clean/straight body. Really nice condition. The 2 bads are power steering wines, and the second issue is either a rear main oil leak, or a valve cover leak. The owner is leaning towards a valve cover leak. Other than that the truck is real clean, and mechanically sound.


My question is...

How spendy is it resolve these issues?

Are these complicated fixes? (Maybe I can do it)

The price of the vehicle is $2500. Is it worth it considering I plan to take care of the two above mentioned issues right away?

Good idea, bad idea, advice?

Thanks in advance.

 

[mole]

I dont know since I have never owned one, but my mechanic tells me to stay away from the V6 since it has problems such as the head gasket issue to name one. I personally know the 22re is underpowered by I have already passed V6s up since I have heard such bad things.

 

[Hyde802]

The v6 is not a bad motor as long as you take care of it. I would not, however, buy a v6 with an auto trans due to the amount of power they rob from the motor. Anyone who says the v6 is slow, I bet you has a auto. Other than the headgaskets and the valve covers, the 3vze is a very reliable motor.

Ill take a 3vze over a 22re ANYDAY.

Valve cover leaks are common and can be fixed for $40 in parts and about an afternoons under the hood.

Most who bash the 3vze have never owned one.

Good luck in your search.

 

[SUBTEGRAL]

I like my 3VZ-E ... except for gas mileage.

 

[badhabt]

Thanks for all the help.

It is a 5 spd. Seller is 2nd owner and has taken good care of this truck.
He says it gets 15-18 mpg. Has already replaced timing chain, and clutch. I wont have to worry about that. I'm having a mechanic look at it before purchase.

Then again, I just found an 86 4 cyl...looks clean...for $3000. 18-22 mpg, straight body. Gonna go look at it tonight.

Subtegral -

I've seen your truck cruizn around west salem. Nice truck!

Thanks again

 

[SUBTEGRAL]

Well all righty then.