I found the 4 Runner on Craigs List while looking for a Prerunner in August 2014. I Drove it and looked over the truck and made a decision to keep looking around. I looked a 4 different 3rd Gen 4 Runners and this had the best running engine, and with the exception of some scrapes and dents it was something we could work on. The man wanted $4800.00, I offered $3000.00, we settled for $3400.00.
The next day changed the oil, filter checked the rest fluids.added washer fluid it poured straight through. Large missing chunk out of the tank. That's when I found evidence that it was wrecked. (Had I known about this forum I would have had better information going in.)
I also found the the front markers and turn signals did not work and there was no power to the washer pump...not that I had anything to pump.
I rewired the marker light that was missing the connector and replaced all of the bulbs front to back. While doing this the tabs for the side marker lights broke off as they were brittle. And on it went.
Since purchase:
1 check engine light (that's how I found this site) P0171 and cleaned the MAF and replaced the Oxigen sensor. No issues since.
Replaced shocks and struts.
Replaced tires Yokohama Geolandar H/T S (will be changing these to something with a better ride to come)
Found replacement center caps.
Missing the hood support found one at the pick n pull. 2x4 was not my style.
Replaced air filter with K n N.
New pcv valve and gromet.
New plugs (used single electrodes have changed to correct double electrodes thanks to you).
New transmission mount, U joints and changed rear dif fluid.
Replaced fuel filter.
New transmission filter and fluid.
New A/C relay, amplifier, switch (I had a local a/c shop do this)
New blower fan.
New bumper valance and grill.
New steering gear bushings. (Stopped the rattling up front)
New outer tie rod.
Stabilizer bushings.
Buffed out the paint (Found further evidence of a previous wreck)
Added a bug shield
Added a TRD logo to the front grill (because alot of you have one...I wanted one too)
Antenna was broken replaced with a stubby.
Things I have stacked up to do:
Front bearings, if anyone has a link to a previous thread please post.
Both headlights that match.
Rear coil springs. I should have done this when I replaced rear shocks.
I want a black Satochi grill: any previous threads on this to make your own?
