looking for opinions

J

jak3_t

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my 4runner is a 97 with 195 000 Km (~120 000 miles). The only problems I had to do was change the plugs and the axle seals. I was wondering if I should put some money into it (bumpers, rims, roof rack, etc) or if I should start looking for a new taco or 4runner.
 
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Spark plugs are not a problem, they are maintenance. Axle seals are common. That truck is just broken in. I've got 233,000 miles on mine so about 375,000 km. I wouldn't hesitate to drive it across the country tomorrow. In fact, I've done that 3 times in the last 6 months.
 
My '99 just rolled over 250K and I drive it 3000+ miles a month.

Every dollar I put into it I get back in the form of reliable miles.

If you like the truck, keep it and do the maintenance.
 
I've well maintained my truck since I've owned it, only "problems" that I've had to replace was the cheap timing belt the PO put in and replace the cheap balljoints that failed, also installed by the PO. But I drive 3000+ miles a month and currently have 295,600 miles and counting. Your truck is just getting started, if you take care of it it'll take care of you.
 
I have a very well maintained '97 that left me stranded (head gasket) in a very bad location with 180K, now I know folks here love their 3G's but IF I had the dough.....I'd love a new car!:bounce:
 
Depends on your situation. If you wrench some yourself the maintenance is a lot cheaper than a car payment. My wifes Rav 4 has left her twice, under warranty, once a bad battery, once a water pump. fixed at no cost to me, but things happen even to new cars. And of course you have to get it to the dealer, and wait for them to do it. Though both times Fred Anderson was pretty quick
 
Don't forget that the OP is from eastern Canada. There may be some rust issues to evaluate before making any offers to buy...

How is the frame under it?
 
[MENTION=102449]Kanoe[/MENTION] - I agree I was about to say HOW bad is the rust under the vehicle. It could be a tipping point but with that low of KM's I would just keep doing slow upgrade/maintenance and be happy with it.
 
Kanoe said:
Don't forget that the OP is from eastern Canada. There may be some rust issues to evaluate before making any offers to buy...

How is the frame under it?
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The rust on the frame is not bad at all there is a little rust the only trouble I had with rust was the driver's seat bolt rusted through and that was an easy fix. I'm not close the salt water and they don't salt the roads they sand them.
 
jak3_t said:
The rust on the frame is not bad at all there is a little rust the only trouble I had with rust was the driver's seat bolt rusted through and that was an easy fix. I'm not close the salt water and they don't salt the roads they sand them.
Click to expand...

Your lucky about the salt. I'm from NS originally, and man, they sure like to lay down the salt there. I don't think there are too many 3rd gens left there. Sadly, the Yukon has started salting too. Too many southern city folks who refuse to let winter slow them down.
 
baja1 said:
I have a very well maintained '97 that left me stranded (head gasket) in a very bad location with 180K, now I know folks here love their 3G's but IF I had the dough.....I'd love a new car!:bounce:
Click to expand...

Just wanted to point out that this statement contradicts itself. If you had a "well maintained" 3rz or 5vz you shouldn't have blown a head gasket @ 180k. Both of these engines are incredibly reliable. OP you're just getting started...lift it and love it for another 100K (160934.4km):cool:
 
the stuff you need to replace now, took 120,000miles to fail. so once its fixed, youre good for another 120,000miles.
 
Sell it. Get new tacoma (not Americanized Mexican dish) because they are awesome. Love my wife's new truck.

Sell that high mileage 4runner to someone cheap. Mine just about to roll 280k miles and still rollin.
 
Mauzer said:
Just wanted to point out that this statement contradicts itself. If you had a "well maintained" 3rz or 5vz you shouldn't have blown a head gasket @ 180k. Both of these engines are incredibly reliable. OP you're just getting started...lift it and love it for another 100K (160934.4km):cool:
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besides watching coolant levels and not over heating the engine how are you supposed to maintain a head gasket?

I have never known of a head gasket to just fail with out a coolant / overheating issue.
 
Dezerts10 said:
besides watching coolant levels and not over heating the engine how are you supposed to maintain a head gasket?

I have never known of a head gasket to just fail with out a coolant / overheating issue.
Click to expand...

I think you answered your own question.
Watch engine temps, replace tstat, flush and/or replace radiator if it isn't cooling properly. This is all maintenance.
 
My 2000 just hit 205,000 miles. I think as long as the maintenance is kept up on it the mileage is nothing to worry about. It's a Toyota! I would suggest that if you really like it then you should keep it.
 
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