Couple of newbie questions

[Notoyz]

I’ve never owned a Toyota , but recently I’ve been looking at the 4wd 3rd Gen 4runners. I have a couple of questions after reading a few posts and surfin the site for a bit.

I see there’s a difference between 1996-2000 and the 2001/2002 transfer cases. The later year models more reliable / easier to work on?

Is the elocker power button always to the left of the steering column or is it also in the upper middle of the center console? I see this red button on the console but so far haven’t found a thread which id’s it.

How are Supercharged versions identified? Is this the sport model w/ hood scoop?

While looking at a used vehicle do you think that what I see thru the Oil fill opening gives a fair assessment of carbon / crud buildup? How about the transmission “strawberry milkshake” issues? How do check for this while looking over a possible purchase? I don’t mind looking over something closely but then again I don’t want to tear down the sellers car 
If I can get a hold of a scan tool any codes I should look for that would break a sale? Thanks

 

[EquineRunner97]

I have limited knowledge, but i'll answer as best I can for you.

I see there’s a difference between 1996-2000 and the 2001/2002 transfer cases. The later year models more reliable / easier to work on? Sorry, can't answer this one.

Is the elocker power button always to the left of the steering column or is it also in the upper middle of the center console? Stock, only to the left. I see this red button on the console but so far haven’t found a thread which id’s it. The hazard lights button?

How are Supercharged versions identified? Usually, only by checking to see if there is a supercharger. This was an upgrade option so I don't believe there was an emblem for it. Is this the sport model w/ hood scoop? Not solely with the Sport edition, sports started in 2001, Highlander Sport was 1999-2000, and t4rs were sc'ed before then. Besides, the SC was an option, not a given,

While looking at a used vehicle do you think that what I see thru the Oil fill opening gives a fair assessment of carbon / crud buildup? If I see a lot of goo in the oil cap, I'm wary. How about the transmission “strawberry milkshake” issues? How do check for this while looking over a possible purchase? The tranny fluid would be pink if it has already happened- and it only happens on autos. Once you buy, just get a new radiator or get a tranny cooler. I don’t mind looking over something closely but then again I don’t want to tear down the sellers car 

If I can get a hold of a scan tool any codes I should look for that would break a sale? I don't have an answer for you on that one. Thanks No problem

 

[Notoyz]

Thanks ER97 for the replys, from a safety standpoint I plan on doing the tundra brake retrofit and add the transcooler as they both seem to be issues with the 4runner.