Looking to buy a 1986 4runner here locally, just wondering if there is anything in particular I should look for. I'm buying from 2nd owner and the first was supposedly meticulous with the records he kept. Exterior needs a new paint job, but supposedly the interior is in excellent condition. The body has 250K miles ... motor swapped out at 100K. The sellers only asking $2500. Any help would be appreciated. I've been looking for one of these in good shape for a while and hoping this one could be "the one" :dance:
If all runs well, sounds like a good deal. Test drive it and listen, feel, see, and smell how it runs. (Can't think of a taste test - LOL!)
Watch out for any occurrence of ""click-only" cranking issue. Frustrating to many but simple to fix once you understand
the cause, so if it happens on that truck, that's another bargaining point
Good engine, fuel and ignition system should start readily. My '86, even before my rebuild sounds like "Ta-Da-Vroom!" (Will post video someday).
Measure voltage at "B" post of alternator. It should read approx 13.5 to 14.5 V. If fluctuating too much, either alt is bad or battery is very bad.
Also, measure battery voltage with engine off, and high beams on. Should be at least 12V. If seller does not want you to take measurement, try starting with high-beams on. Practical way to load-test a battery.
While
engine is cold, and radiator cap off, start it. Watch for coolant welling over and/or bubbling. Indicates bad HG (remember engine's still cold, so nothing should pressurize the cooling system.
Good visual for chassis/body rust is important of course.
Rear-end sag? Easy to fix but a good bargaining point.
