Just bought a 99 4Runner..Have some questions

[99ToyoRunner]

Hello all...I just bought a 99 4runner and I really like it so far. It's a V6 5speed with 156k and it needs some work but nothing major. For starters, what would you recommend for rear shocks? I most likely have to replace the front struts as well but for starters I am starting with the rear. Second the bottom of the rear diff is a bit wet with diff fluid and it seems to be coming from the drain plug so would I have to replace the plug? I bought the shop manual to help guide me since I'm new to Toyota(Owned Subaru's prior) but I am able to do a lot of the work myself. Last question the 3 electrical outlets in the front where I charge my phone I can charge my phone but I keep having to rotate my charger along the three outlets. My charger does suck and I need to replace it but I find it kinda odd I have to do that. -Karl

 

[Robb235]

For starters, what would you recommend for rear shocks? I most likely have to replace the front struts as well but for starters I am starting with the rear.

Before most people answer that question, they're going to ask "do you plan on lifting it?"

Second the bottom of the rear diff is a bit wet with diff fluid and it seems to be coming from the drain plug so would I have to replace the plug? I bought the shop manual to help guide me since I'm new to Toyota(Owned Subaru's prior) but I am able to do a lot of the work myself.

You probably need a new crush gasket, which you'll have to get from Toyota.

Last question the 3 electrical outlets in the front where I charge my phone I can charge my phone but I keep having to rotate my charger along the three outlets. My charger does suck and I need to replace it but I find it kinda odd I have to do that.

I had that happen when I had a crappy phone charger. I switched to a new one and the problem went away.

 

[99ToyoRunner]

I don't plan on lifting it at all...I was looking at some Kyb shocks or bilstein. I have a set of monroe shocks but I'd rather have something better. I can pay a visit to the toyota dealer tomorrow. That's not a big deal. And I figure a new charger would solve the problem I've had mine for 5 years and it sucks now I've been to lazy to replace it. Thank you!

 

[JRZEE2000TR4LTD]

When I bought my 2000 2 months ago I thought my plug on the rear dif was leaking too, but then I found that the dif actually had a small hole in it. This seemed to come from where my rear e-brake bracket broke off (the bracket is just hanging on the cable) along with rust. I see you live in the Northeast so check this out. Pretty common on these trucks. I JB welded, but the only way to fix it permanently is to replace the entire rear axle.

 

[subiedrewbie]

What is making you think you need shocks? Noise? Leak?

I know a lot of guys run there's a lot longer than that and personally my car is at 193k and not showing any need of a change.

 

[RonMAIDEN]

I change my shocks around 100k since they generally are a bit tired by then. Alot of people run their shocks much longer but if they compared them to a set of new ones you'd notice quite a big difference even of they don't look worn they probably are especially near 200k.

 

[99ToyoRunner]

Well the passenger side shock was sheared off for starters..I replaced my rear shocks and what a difference. I just want to do a tune up..spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter..I'm going to replace the timing belt as well

 

[Oregon-Runner Max]

I'd Recommend getting Bilstein B6's and 4600's I just got my 98' 4Runner with 180,000 miles about a month ago and after coming from a 01' Tacoma you can definitely feel the sag. After installing the Bilsteins last week the truck's changed into super solid ride and it wasn't too expensive. I'd recommend getting new strut mounts in the front as well(you might as well so you don't have to replace them later) KYB makes nice ones.

Make sure that the B6's and 4600 fit the V6, however any of the Heavy duty Bilsteins are great.

Autoparts warehouse had some great deals and a vehicle fit checker.

 

[MONTYMTB]

I replaced my rear shocks and what a difference.

Which brand did you end up going with? I am about to replace the Monroes on mine, and am trying to decide between OEM and Bilstein.