Howdy. New guy here. Looking for advice.

[repoguy]

Just joined. I already have a 98 4-runner with a v6 / auto, but want to sell it to buy one of the earlier models with a 22R and a 5 speed.

I'm more of a hot-rod guy & am a little ignorant on the subject of these little trucks other than the fact that they're great utility vehicles and they run forever.

Essentially I want to set it up as a daily driver that I can use for fishing, surfing and whatever. Probably a little bit of lift and some slightly oversized tires, and some mild mods to make it off-road worthy without sacrificing daily drivability (kind of a middle of the road deal).

Any advice on optimal year models, places to find decent ones for sale, recommended modifications, recommended parts sources, or anything else you think I should know????

 

[fourwd1]

The common answer would be an 85, because it's the last year for solid front axle and 1st year of EFI.

But an IFS truck (86+) suits your described intended uses better.

You can do a few inches of lift, 32-33" tires, maybe a locker, yet still be comfortable on the street.

There are too many "parts sources" to list w/o knowing specifics of what you're looking for, and GOOGLE will help answer a lot.

 

[sixonthefloor]

I think a first gen will fit the bill perfectly. An 84-89 is what I'm talking about. 84s have a solid front axel but have a carbed 22-R, the 85s have the solid axel but got upgraded to EFI. I belive the 84s and 85s have the gear driven transfer cases too which is a plus. The 86-89s come with IFS and the 22re and the slow point o I mean the 3.0 V-6. All could be had with autos and manuals I think. You can take the back off, make it it truck or whatever.

 

[repoguy]

Thanks for the responses.

What are the best minor engine mods for the 22r to get a little more kick out of it without getting inside the motor. As in, what is a recommended vendor that makes a good header & exhaust? Are there performance enhancing chips available for these motors? That kind of stuff.

I guess one of my concerns, being more of a V8 guy is making enough power. My 98 seems to weigh a lot, and the v6 barely pushes it. I guess I worry about the 4 not being able to get me out of a bad spot without bumping up the power a bit (forgive my ignorance here, not trying to start any shit or anything). But once again, I plan to use it as a daily so I don't want to get all radical.

Also, if anyone has a mechanically solid 1st gen for sale or know of one for sale let me know.