Checking out a couple 4Runners today - need some help!

S

Spicy McHaggis

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The 1996 has 130k miles but seller isn’t sure if timing belt had been replaced. He’s asking $4200 or best.
1996 4WD Toyota 4Runner
​https://kalamazoo.craigslist.org/cto/d/1996-4wd-toyota-4runner/6733970119.html

The 1999 has 185k miles and timing belt has been replaced. He’s asking $4000 or best.
1999 4Runner
https://kalamazoo.craigslist.org/cto/d/1999-4runner/6732866122.html

Is there a way to verify if the timing belt has been replaced? I’ll look under the hood to see if there’s a sticker or not.

Thanks!
 
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I would get the 99 but I'm partial to the 99-00 limited 4x4 and it's awesome multi-mode transfer case. I also like the 99+ updates to the interior. It would be perfect if it had the rear e-locker too but most people don't really need it.

It says minor rust but you can't ever take anyone's word for it. Often I've liked a vehicle from looking at pictures but when I go see it I wonder if they took pics of the wrong vehicle it is so bad. One guy I went to said he just used the pics from the listing when he bought his a few years before. It was absolutely trashed interior during his ownership. I LOL when I saw the oil cap was aluminum foil and he just shrugged and said it hadn't been an issue for several thousand miles so he never got around to replacing the cap...... Sorry to get sidetracked.

The only way I know of to know for sure if the timing belt is newer would be to remove the upper timing cover and put your eyeballs on it in person. Check for dry rotted/cracking of the belt and make sure it was replaced with a nice Toyota OEM belt. Also, was the water pump replaced at the same time as the timing belt? If you are willing to spend a few extra minutes and the seller is willing the upper cover is easily moved aside by removing I think 4 10mm bolts and moving the upper radiator hose clamp out of the way. You can leave the hose attached. There are many other things to look at when shopping for one of this generation of 4runners.

I'd recommend reading this thread.

3rd Gen 4Runner Buyer's Guide
 
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Spicy McHaggis said:
The 1996 has 130k miles but seller isn’t sure if timing belt had been replaced. He’s asking $4200 or best.
1996 4WD Toyota 4Runner
​https://kalamazoo.craigslist.org/cto/d/1996-4wd-toyota-4runner/6733970119.html

The 1999 has 185k miles and timing belt has been replaced. He’s asking $4000 or best.
1999 4Runner
https://kalamazoo.craigslist.org/cto/d/1999-4runner/6732866122.html

Is there a way to verify if the timing belt has been replaced? I’ll look under the hood to see if there’s a sticker or not.

Thanks!
Click to expand...
Frame, frame, frame. A frame that’s in great shape will make up for some mileage concessions. But then, 130k miles is great. Did you run the VIN to see if there’s a record of timing belt replacement? Even if it needs to be done, you’ll be good for another 130k afterward. Those belts (OEM) last way longer than factory recommended interval.
 
Based on my gut feelings, the 96 is not properly loved, and is potentially owned by some poser bro, judging from the “4X4” decals on either sides of the car. 130k miles sounds enticing, and maybe the decals is the worst part about the car, but I would check it thoroughly, starting with the undercarriage for rust. The frame rails are the most susceptible to rust, so look for that first. The timing belt is not a big deal, IMO, as you can pretty much assume that it hasn’t been done so plan on doing that when you get the car. The engine is non-interference so it won’t blow up your engine if the timing belt goes while you’re driving. Also, note the chunk missing on the bottom of the front bumper. That could have been anything from hitting a debris on the freeway to bashing about on the trails, not knowing how to properly advance through ruts and dips. The dent on the driver’s side front fender looks suspicious as well. I would definitely run a Carfax to verify the mileage. This truck, as I said with my gut feelings, has been “bro’d.”

The 99 is cool, but if there’s one thing I hate on the newer body style, it’s the front bumper. I hate the “fat lip” bumper. I have an ‘01, and I can’t wait to get rid of the damn thing. But, that’s my opinion, and if you like it, go for it.
 
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I'd say '99 as well. Ask about if oil changes were regular and how old the spark plugs/wires are maybe.. And of course double check the frame rust isn't too bad. Timing belt and water pump being replaced is a good thing, and it looks pretty clean. 185K isn't crazy high for these.
 
Over the many months it took me to find a nice 3rd gen, I passed on many that just had poor pictures. If you are lazy about taking a good picture to sell your truck, then you are probably lazy about taking care of it... just my .02
 
99 all the way. The 96 has a HUGE mileage discrepancy, thanks to Welding Goat's file. The 185K is nothing; just make sure to check the frame for rust. If it's surface rust, that easy to take care of with some paint or POR.
 
Hepar said:
Someone covered the undercarriage with a very nice coating of paint.
Click to expand...

Agreed. But, an uncoated undercarriage in these parts turns to red dust. I'd like to see some shots of the frame along the exhaust. It appears an effort was made at some point. And the seller (who I don't know or represent) claims he would serve food off of it. Lol.

Often midwest trucks originated elsewhere, and can remain rust free with owner perseverence. Mine was first sold in Vancouver, WA. It's pretty clean, so far.

As a guy from Washington, you have to appreciate the price. I'm guessing the same truck in Seattle would sell in a day for twice that price.
 
Riceye said:
Agreed. But, an uncoated undercarriage in these parts turns to red dust. I'd like to see some shots of the frame along the exhaust. It appears an effort was made at some point. And the seller (who I don't know or represent) claims he would serve food off of it. Lol.

Often midwest trucks originated elsewhere, and can remain rust free with owner perseverence. Mine was first sold in Vancouver, WA. It's pretty clean, so far.

As a guy from Washington, you have to appreciate the price. I'm guessing the same truck in Seattle would sell in a day for twice that price.
Click to expand...

For sure. Would just never buy that one sight unseen. I would want to thoroughly inspect that one. Too many people just cover sh*t up with black paint.

And it may just sell for twice that here. The prices are nuts.
 
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