98' for $1900

[krenaud33]

Found a 98' Limited 4Runner on CL for $,1900. Mileage is 277,000 and the body and interiors looks to be clean and in good shape. I haven't had a chance to talk to the guy yet but the add mentions it doesn't run and needs a driver side head. A friend talked with him and he did say the tranny coolant is red and he had never heard of the pink milkshake. I guess one of the cam bolts was loose according to the owner.

Price seem to high? It books $3,600 in fair condition and $5,000 in good condition according toe KBB.

Thoughts? I may need to do move convincing to my wife.

 

[jeremyc74]

It probably needs a head because he didn't change the oil in it and it seized up. There are a few pictures on here that show them breaking the timing gear off the end of the cam because of that.

That's WAY too much money for a chassis with that many miles on it that likely needs an engine swap.

Edit:

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/189575-totaled-motor.html

 

[krenaud33]

That's WAY too much money for a chassis with that many miles on it that likely needs an engine swap.

How much would you think? $1,000? Thanks for the link, definately something to look out for before buying.

 

[T4R2014]

I'd say $1000 at most. It pretty much needs an engine. Usually, if the price range is below 3 grand, there is almost always a catch two(or more!) with one of these things. I noticed you are in Iowa so give that frame a look-over.

 

[krenaud33]

I'd say $1000 at most. It pretty much needs an engine. Usually, if the price range is below 3 grand, there is almost always a catch two(or more!) with one of these things. I noticed you are in Iowa so give that frame a look-over.

$1000 is what I was thinking. Definitely will make sure the frame good. I have seen a lot frame rot on Toyotas around here.

 

[jeremyc74]

I'd say $1000 at most. .

That would be my take on it too, and that's assuming the OP can do the motor swap himself, and the truck is otherwise in serviceable condition.

At that mileage it's going to need a full suspension overhaul including rack bushings, probably a transmission mount, rear axle work, and who knows how much longer the transmission will last.

It's just too easy to find a running truck for a lot less hassle. If the price isn't right, I'd pass.

 

[krenaud33]

I was planning on looking at tonight if it was still for sale. It sold last night which kind of bums me. Yes I would have been able to do most of the engine work or a swap.

 

[ben550]

That would be my take on it too, and that's assuming the OP can do the motor swap himself, and the truck is otherwise in serviceable condition.

At that mileage it's going to need a full suspension overhaul including rack bushings, probably a transmission mount, rear axle work, and who knows how much longer the transmission will last.

It's just too easy to find a running truck for a lot less hassle. If the price isn't right, I'd pass.

I agree. Id rather spend a little more on the up front purchase cost instead of saving a grand on the purchase price and doing a complete overhaul of the "new" vehicle. Not worth it when you consider all the work that will need to be done.

Check the brake calipers, brake lines, power steering pump, ball joints, frame, shocks/struts, springs, A/C and heat, etc...

 

[T4R2014]

That would be my take on it too, and that's assuming the OP can do the motor swap himself, and the truck is otherwise in serviceable condition.

At that mileage it's going to need a full suspension overhaul including rack bushings, probably a transmission mount, rear axle work, and who knows how much longer the transmission will last.

It's just too easy to find a running truck for a lot less hassle. If the price isn't right, I'd pass.

I was in a similar situation a few months back. I found a 98' Limited with a totally screwed transmission and the most wicked valve cover gasket leak I had seen(literally pouring out). The body and frame looked quite good. Then I drove it, and found that EVERY suspension component was shot. Once that transmission decided to change gear, I got up to 60 and thought I was riding a water bed. Sketchy was an understatement.

I don't have the time to swap in a new transmission and renew the suspension, so I passed. Even if I got it for $1000, I would most likely be spending $2000 or more to get it up to my standards. At that point it is easier to just find a nicer truck.

That thing still hasn't sold. I might just go back in the spring and offer him $250 to haul it off his lot. :naughty: