Help Sought - Built 3rd Gen FS

[TonyB66]

My local 3rd gen hunt is now going into its third month...

I missed-out on a few very desirable low mileage, original owner ones with all service and repair records. Some never off-roaded, zero rust. Thanks to many threads here I've ramped-up my knowledge on this generation. Very helpful.

I am now starting to consider "built" T4Rs. My knowledge is severely lacking there though. I had a couple FJ40s back in the day, and modified them for sure, but it is was imperative that it be done properly, or there would be issues. I imagine that approach remains prudent today as as well...

Below is one for sale about an hour from me. Any thoughts or concerns regarding this build, the selected aftermarket parts? No mention of lowering the diff. If that is the case, might that be problematic? If there are any particular questions a potential buyer should ask regarding this rig, please let me know.

Thanks much.

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/d/built-4runner/6289862484.html

 

[ToyTec Lifts]

My local 3rd gen hunt is now going into its third month...

I missed-out on a few very desirable low mileage, original owner ones with all service and repair records. Some never off-roaded, zero rust. Thanks to many threads here I've ramped-up my knowledge on this generation. Very helpful.

I am now starting to consider "built" T4Rs. My knowledge is severely lacking there though. I had a couple FJ40s back in the day, and modified them for sure, but it is was imperative that it be done properly, or there would be issues. I imagine that approach remains prudent today as as well...

Below is one for sale about an hour from me. Any thoughts or concerns regarding this build, the selected aftermarket parts? No mention of lowering the diff. If that is the case, might that be problematic? If there are any particular questions a potential buyer should ask regarding this rig, please let me know.

Thanks much.

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/d/built-4runner/6289862484.html

His contact info is there- hit him up about diff drop, and ask if the tie rods, steering rack, lower ball joints have been maintained.

 

[TonyB66]

His contact info is there- hit him up about diff drop, and ask if the tie rods, steering rack, lower ball joints have been maintained.

Thanks TTL. Seems that my concern about the diff drop not being mentioned is a valid one. Appreciate the confirmation.

I'll send him a text in about 15 minutes. Thanks again.

 

[TonyB66]

His contact info is there- hit him up about diff drop, and ask if the tie rods, steering rack, lower ball joints have been maintained.

Also, did you see his reference to tie rods, the steering rack and ball joints?

"Front end refresh including, Lower Ball Joints, Inner and Outer Tie Rods, and full Steering Rack Bushing refresh."

It would seem that I don't need to ask such...

 

[sunsetrunner]

Diff drop is not a requirement, take a look at the CV angles. I've been running without one for 3 years, no issue. That truck looks pretty clean, I would have a mechanic take a look before buying just to make sure it's not hiding anything.

Run a carfax too. A lot of the 4runners on bay area craigslist seem to claim clean titles but then carfax shows another story.

 

[TonyB66]

Diff drop is not a requirement, take a look at the CV angles. I've been running without one for 3 years, no issue. That truck looks pretty clean, I would have a mechanic take a look before buying just to make sure it's not hiding anything.

Run a carfax too. A lot of the 4runners on bay area craigslist seem to claim clean titles but then carfax shows another story.

Thanks sunsetrunner.

I somehow remember reading here that any lift of 3" or greater should have the diff dropped. What matters is the CV angles, but not sure if I'd be a good judge of that...

I'll text him now. Thanks again for the input.

 

[Mauzer]

First, read this thread: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html

Then, consider the fact that owning a 17+ y/o vehicle means lots of maintenance (even more after you lift it and have some fun). I know most of us make it look easy (and it is if you love your rig) but you need to have some mechanical knowledge and tools (of course) or a wheelbarrow of $$$ to spend at the dealership (OEM parts are a must).

Not trying to talk you out of anything but 3 months is not a long time...it took me 8 months and I drove 5 hours to pick mine up.

P.S. Two Monster cans and some menthols in the cubby is a warning sign to me :hat:
P.S.S. ask for more pics...then post them here #ToyotaPron

 

[TonyB66]

First, read this thread: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html

Then, consider the fact that owning a 17+ y/o vehicle means lots of maintenance (even more after you lift it and have some fun). I know most of us make it look easy (and it is if you love your rig) but you need to have some mechanical knowledge and tools (of course) or a wheelbarrow of $$$ to spend at the dealership (OEM parts are a must).

Not trying to talk you out of anything but 3 months is not a long time...it took me 8 months and I drove 5 hours to pick mine up.

P.S. Two Monster cans and some menthols in the cubby is a warning sign to me :hat:
P.S.S. ask for more pics...then post them here #ToyotaPron

Thanks Mauzer. My first laugh of the day too!

I've had my share of 20+ year old rides before. I'll spare everyone the list, but I understand... In an ideal world, I'd prefer something not lifted, or at least minimally.

I texted the seller about an hour ago. Nothing back yet. I'll ask for more photos...

Thanks.

 

[JRZEE2000TR4LTD]

$10000 just seems like a little too much for a truck over 200K. I was always under the impression that you really don't get that much for "upgrades" during resale. Considering that truck stock might be around $5000-$6000 are the upgrades really worth $4000 or $5000. Also, lots of other stuff to maintain besides the TB/WP. Furthermore, was he chasing a vibration replacing all those front end parts? To me that truck "might" be worth ~$8500 if it's vibration free and rust free

 

[meRockboost]

Shit mine is in the same condition except my suspension is better and I have a winch. I'd be lucky to get 8k in Maine even with mine being a non New England rig.

 

[SpidermanGeek]

Would trade for locked FZJ80 Land Cruiser

Clean California Title and everything is current ← Good, Thumbs up
This is a factory E locker truck with 4.30 gears ← How did the Owner Confirm this?

I bought this and immediately did all the proper upgrades and maintenance
ODO just rolled 205k and I had the timing belt, water pump, all cam seals and belts done at exactly 200k by ToyotaPro in Concord. ← Good, Thumbs up
All fluids were swapped to synthetic on purchase (oil, transmission, t case and axles) ← Good, Thumbs up
Doesn't leak a drop and everything works ← Good, Thumbs up
It is equipped with an ARB front bumper and 4xInnovations high clearance rear (also features built in class 3 hitch) ← Nice Upgrade
I have installed an Old Man Emu lift with matching valved shocks and struts. ← Nice Upgrade
Swapped in a mint interior from a 99 SR5 (so no cracked leather and more cup holders) ← But no more Power Seats? Can't tell from images.
Bluetooth radio installed with handsfree and upgraded speakers all the way around. ← Meh, shouldn't factor into the sell price
35% Tint on the front to match the privacy glass ← Meh, shouldn't factor into the sell price
Viper 2 Way alarm professionally installed ← Meh, shouldn't factor into the sell price
Brand new 17" Level 8 MK6 wheels and 285/75/17 Nitto Terra Grapplers (less than 10 miles on them) ← Nice Upgrade
SPC Adjustable Upper Control Arms with Heavy Duty grease-able Ball Joints ← Nice Upgrade
Front end refresh including, Lower Ball Joints, Inner and Outer Tie Rods, and full Steering Rack Bushing refresh. ← OEM?
Morimoto Mini H1 Projector retrofit with 35w 5000k bulbs in new Depo housings (Amazing light ouput) ← Meh, shouldn't factor into the sell price

Has some minor paint fading due to being a 20 year old truck, but there isn't a dent on it. ← Good, Thumbs up
Only thing this truck needs is sliders and a winch and you can run the Rubicon

Thanks!
call or text show contact info
Donnie

My thoughts in red, if I was looking at the ad.

Overall, I don't think it's wroth 10K. I think he's factoring in all of his "upgrades". Personally, things like a tint, radio, speakers, alarm, retrofit lights have Zero "buyer appeal". In other words, I wouldn't chose this one over a similar one just because it has these things. Price difference would have to be basically negligible.

So dude throws on some bumpers, a lift, some tires/wheels and aftermarket UCAs and thinks he can ask 10K for a 20 year old vehicle with 200+K on it?
Also, I wouldn't classify this as being a "built" 4Runner. His upgrades are pretty much on par with the majority of folks in this section of T4R.org.

IMO, he better be ready to take a 1.5-2K hit on the price, that's IF everything checks out and the vehicle as a whole is mechanically sound and completely rust free.

Also, from the ad, it sounds like he hasn't even owned it for long. He says he bought it and immediately did "all the proper upgrades and maintenance" and goes on to mention that the WP/TB was done at 200K and the vehicle now has 205K. So it makes it look like he's only put about 5K miles on it himself. Why go through all that trouble just to immediately sell? You should ask his reason for selling and also look into Transmission/Radiator status.

A diff drop is definitely the least of worries. Its necessity is highly debated on T4R.org anyway.

Lastly, if everything checks out and he seems flexible on price, that's a short drive that's worth it to go test drive if possible. Owner won't be able to hide things like a front end shake/shimmy or noise driveshaft or warped/sticky brakes.

My $0.02

 

[TonyB66]

$10000 just seems like a little too much for a truck over 200K. I was always under the impression that you really don't get that much for "upgrades" during resale. Considering that truck stock might be around $5000-$6000 are the upgrades really worth $4000 or $5000. Also, lots of other stuff to maintain besides the TB/WP. Furthermore, was he chasing a vibration replacing all those front end parts? To me that truck "might" be worth ~$8500 if it's vibration free and rust free

Agreed on the price for sure. As someone who sold a couple modified road cars before...

I like the thinking about possible vibration chasing. Good stuff, thank you.

 

[ltsr]

Agreed on the price for sure. As someone who sold a couple modified road cars before...

I like the thinking about possible vibration chasing. Good stuff, thank you.

It might be helpful to know what you're looking for or what's not acceptable to you.

FYI - that ad you linked has been up for months. Maybe you can follow up here once you check it out and report back to us if there's something not right.

 

[TonyB66]

My thoughts in red, if I was looking at the ad.

Overall, I don't think it's wroth 10K. I think he's factoring in all of his "upgrades". Personally, things like a tint, radio, speakers, alarm, retrofit lights have Zero "buyer appeal". In other words, I wouldn't chose this one over a similar one just because it has these things. Price difference would have to be basically negligible.

So dude throws on some bumpers, a lift, some tires/wheels and aftermarket UCAs and thinks he can ask 10K for a 20 year old vehicle with 200+K on it?
Also, I wouldn't classify this as being a "built" 4Runner. His upgrades are pretty much on par with the majority of folks in this section of T4R.org.

IMO, he better be ready to take a 1.5-2K hit on the price, that's IF everything checks out and the vehicle as a whole is mechanically sound and completely rust free.

Also, from the ad, it sounds like he hasn't even owned it for long. He says he bought it and immediately did "all the proper upgrades and maintenance" and goes on to mention that the WP/TB was done at 200K and the vehicle now has 205K. So it makes it look like he's only put about 5K miles on it himself. Why go through all that trouble just to immediately sell? You should ask his reason for selling and also look into Transmission/Radiator status.

A diff drop is definitely the least of worries. Its necessity is highly debated on T4R.org anyway.

Lastly, if everything checks out and he seems flexible on price, that's a short drive that's worth it to go test drive if possible. Owner won't be able to hide things like a front end shake/shimmy or noise driveshaft or warped/sticky brakes.

My $0.02

Very helpful feedback! A nickel, at least :thumb:

I did ask how long he has owned it, if it has always had a CA or west coast owner, which segued into the condition, rust-wise...

Thanks again for making the time for the thoughtful, well-informed reply!

 

[Scramble]

My thoughts in red, if I was looking at the ad.

Overall, I don't think it's wroth 10K. I think he's factoring in all of his "upgrades". Personally, things like a tint, radio, speakers, alarm, retrofit lights have Zero "buyer appeal". In other words, I wouldn't chose this one over a similar one just because it has these things. Price difference would have to be basically negligible.

So dude throws on some bumpers, a lift, some tires/wheels and aftermarket UCAs and thinks he can ask 10K for a 20 year old vehicle with 200+K on it?
Also, I wouldn't classify this as being a "built" 4Runner. His upgrades are pretty much on par with the majority of folks in this section of T4R.org.

IMO, he better be ready to take a 1.5-2K hit on the price, that's IF everything checks out and the vehicle as a whole is mechanically sound and completely rust free.

Also, from the ad, it sounds like he hasn't even owned it for long. He says he bought it and immediately did "all the proper upgrades and maintenance" and goes on to mention that the WP/TB was done at 200K and the vehicle now has 205K. So it makes it look like he's only put about 5K miles on it himself. Why go through all that trouble just to immediately sell? You should ask his reason for selling and also look into Transmission/Radiator status.

A diff drop is definitely the least of worries. Its necessity is highly debated on T4R.org anyway.

Lastly, if everything checks out and he seems flexible on price, that's a short drive that's worth it to go test drive if possible. Owner won't be able to hide things like a front end shake/shimmy or noise driveshaft or warped/sticky brakes.

My $0.02

I agree with you 100%. Pretty amazing how we could pick apart what looks like a perfectly good truck! LOL The guy probably got it at a good price & is flipping, there might be something wrong with it but if it's pink milkshake people usually list them cheaper for a quick sale.

OP, go test drive it & offer $7000 if it's as good as it looks.

 

[TonyB66]

It might be helpful to know what you're looking for or what's not acceptable to you.

FYI - that ad you linked has been up for months. Maybe you can follow up here once you check it out and report back to us if there's something not right.

Bay Area too I see...

Compared to most or many here, I'm looking at a 4Runner to serve limited use for my family. With two little ones (family of four), I want a reliable 4x4 for one to two Tahoe winter trips. In the summer, I envision it being used a couple times for camping. Basically, a handful times a year... I imagine it will come in handy periodically for a local Home Depot run. Also, we have some property up on Summit Road, by the channel 8 TV tower. Somewhat rough terrain...

Also, with all the rains we had last winter, and the corresponding road conditions and concerns (just one road in/out), and not having a 4x4, that too is a motivating factor...

If hear back from the seller and see it, I'll most certainly share how that goes.

Thanks.

 

[TonyB66]

Heard back from him. Texting now...

It does have a diff drop. I guess I'd need to know how to confirm such...

He says that it has been a CA truck its whole life, and has zero rust. He purchased it a year ago...

I asked why is he selling, and he said that he's having a baby. That prompted the question from me as to how is a FZJ80 more desirable with a baby on the way...

 

[Scramble]

Heard back from him. Texting now...

It does have a diff drop. I guess I'd need to know how to confirm such...

He says that it has been a CA truck its whole life, and has zero rust. He purchased it a year ago...

I asked why is he selling, and he said that he's having a baby. That prompted the question from me as to how is a FZJ80 more desirable with a baby on the way...

FZJ80 is bad ass. It has a solid front axle & more room for kids, dogs, camping gear etc. You might have found the right truck if you can get the price down.

 

[TonyB66]

FZJ80 is bad ass. It has a solid front axle & more room for kids, dogs, camping gear etc. You might have found the right truck if you can get the price down.

Says he wants something more stock, but still plenty capable... Leaving the state too in December.

I didn't get into pricing with him as he said that he has since added 4xInnovations rock sliders and a 9500 lb winch. He expressed that he's firm on 10K.

 

[cblock406]

Maybe priced a bit high but you'd probably be in it less than you would if you bought a clean stock 4runner, put some money into maintenance such as TB/WP etc., and then did the round of mods that truck already has.