Looking at a 1998 4runner, questions.

M

MFreund

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Looking at a 1998 4runner with 178000 miles. Body seems to be in good shape. Just trying to get a idea on what to look for when inspecting.

Does the V6 have a timing chain or belt. The V8 has the belt right? Is there any indications that the Trans cooler is ready to give up? What about the head gaskets. Does the frame have any place it is known to rot out. Calipers are known to rust up, but no problem to replace.

I looked at a 4th gen and have some ideas on what to look for. Just trying to get a list of bullet points to look at along with what I normally look at.
 
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The v6 has a timing belt. Make sure you know when it was last done, or just plan on doing it yourself after purchase (t-belt kit is about $300 on ebay for genuine toyota parts). The 5vz is not known for having head gasket issues (the older 3.0 definitely was).

I'm not super familiar with the automatics, but if you do not have receipts for the radiator being replaced, I would plan on doing that after purchase too. I don't know that the radiator/trans cooler will necessarily warn you before failure.

As for rust, the most common trouble spot is where the rear lower control arm mounts connect to the frame. But look over the whole frame for rust. Patina is fine, but if it's rotting through anywhere, keep looking. Since you're in IA, plan on treating the undercarriage every winter with fluid film or something.

Check the FAQ sticky at the top of the forum. I think there is more information there.
 
KidVermicious said:
Read here: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...ormational-threads-must-read-new-members.html

They're stickies for a reason.
Click to expand...

And more specifically, click the link titled: "3rd Gen 4Runner Buyer's Guide"

You'll find most of your answers there.

Status of the Timing Belt on the 5VZ-FE is low priority. The engine is a Non-Interference design, so if it snaps on you, you'll just need a tow home.

The Auto trans is the thing I tend to look out for. I'm especially skeptical when a For Sale ad lists that it JUST had a new rad and transmission flush done. That could mean that the vehicle suffered the Pink Milkshake and the owner just patched it up to sell it and pass the headache on to a new owner.
 
Another 24 hrs and reading at every chance. I really feel like I have learned from every post on the sticky. The cup holder thread solves a problem I did not know I had!

You guys are awesome!

It has poured rain here for the last 36 hrs, so I am going to look at the 4runner in the morning. I feel prepared! Thanks again! I will update after I see it tomorrow.
 
MFreund said:
Another 24 hrs and reading at every chance. I really feel like I have learned from every post on the sticky. The cup holder thread solves a problem I did not know I had!

You guys are awesome!

It has poured rain here for the last 36 hrs, so I am going to look at the 4runner in the morning. I feel prepared! Thanks again! I will update after I see it tomorrow.
Click to expand...

Is it on craigslist? If you post a link we can all give you our unprofessional opinions :bowl:
 
The top one look like a good candidate. Looks like there is as much in maintance done as he is asking. Do not like roof rack and bull bumper, but that is just items to sell.
 
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