Buying my first 4R

[Pappas]

So, here's my story:

I had a car (02' Saturn SL1). I'm at work... we get a huge hail storm... car is totaled. I have insurance and all, and am getting a decent check to get another car. I don't want to have car payments anymore, so I'm looking for something inexpensive.

Enter: My cousin. He has a friend who has a '91 4Runner that he wants to sell. It probably needs breaks, and the stereo was boosted out of it when it was in Guam (guy's in the Navy)... all minor stuff. The body is almost immaculate (one dent thanks to a golf ball) and his mom bought it new for him, so he's been the only owner. He's practically giving this thing to me.

It looks like I'm getting a ride with a lot of history... and miles to go with it (190k). I've only had 2 vehicles prior to this: the aforementioned Saturn and an '86 Buick Park Avenue (which I loved, despite its problems).

My question is... what's am I in for? I know it gets about half the gas milage my Saturn did, but that doesn't worry me much.

 

[greyghost4x4]

You are in for a good truck man. Don't let the mileage scare you, I have 170K on my truck. Just try not to be one of those people who complains about your miles per gallon in the future. You are getting an SUV lol.

Evan

 

[DonnyB]

nice lookin' ride grey!

 

[greyghost4x4]

Thanks a lot man.

Evan

 

[Pappas]

You are in for a good truck man. Don't let the mileage scare you, I have 170K on my truck. Just try not to be one of those people who complains about your miles per gallon in the future. You are getting an SUV lol.
Evan

Yeah, I just looked over the "how many miles do you have" threads and feel much better about the mileage. There are several people with newer models, more miles, and still running great.

And I'm prepared to make the switch from ultra economy car to this thing. I really don't drive a whole lot, so gas prices don't affect me much. Hell, in my Saturn, I was putting in $15-$20 every 2 weeks. Even if the 4R gets half the GM, I'm still not forking out a whole bunch of money.

 

[004Gunner]

Drive it first. That is considered second generation and they are very much a truck with rear passenger seats. Expect it to ride just like one. Rear end sag is typical and easily remedied, more then likely the biggest issue will be rust. The stereo opening is a double din which will give you all the options you could think of for stereo replacement. Engine and trans still have plenty of life left in them if maintained properly. The 3.0 L V6 combined with the 4 speed trans, I assume it has, leaves something to be desired when towing or going up long hills. Overall, it's a very capable classic and hard not to love. The hard part is breaking the habit as my 2nd generation led me to get the 3rd