hello, new here.. advice?

[michigan4runner009]

Hello,

I am currently looking at buying a 95 4 runner with the 3.0 auto. I can get it for about 1500, and the engine has been replaced a few years ago. The owner is original, has all paperwork, but says they have never done a head gasket. Any advice if this is worth it? I really can't afford a lemon, and although I am mechanically inclined, a head gasket might be pushing the limit. The bosy is pretty clean, rust on the rear fenders. It is the sr5 limited with all options. This is an ebay buy which I am bidding on currently, and ends tomorrow night, so please help me quick! Thank you

 

[michigan4runner009]

42 views and no reply.. please, i would love to hear your 2 cents!

 

[Satchmo]

Sounds like a deal. But if the engine was swapped, why didn't he do the gasket at the same time?

 

[michigan4runner009]

I think I have decided against it.. Looks to me like that's coolant on the ground, and I'm really not in for the project..

 

[BucknutBob]

Well, even though you are from MI, I'll offer some advice (LOL--Buckeye to the bone, hence the "Bucknut" monicker)--$1500 is on the low end for a '95, so when you find one around there, expect some warts. Runners hold their value so well, it's still legit to find 2nd Gens in the $3-5000 range for really clean ones (or higher, with low miles on top). I got one of mine off eBay, so I know you can definitely find some deals there. Best of luck on the next try!