looking to by 4runner this weekend. Have a few questions.

[3rdgenfan]

Looking at a 99 SR5 with 178k. Its a 4wd model but no e-locker. I know book. I think its a fair deal at $3900. New rims and tires and roof basket is a plus. There are some 4runners down here as far as a e-locker retrofit. From everyone's experience here just wondering where are the trouble areas I need to look for. He says the transmission leaks about a quart of fluid every two months. Hoping its a pan gasket. Is there something that leaks that is common that causes this? Must trying to get opinions to make sure I'm not getting screwed.

 

[packweco]

If you take a look at the sticky at the top of the forum, that's a master directory of info threads. One of the threads is a buyers guide that probably has answers to all of your questions.

Get under the truck and try to pinpoint where the tranny leak is. It would suck to buy it and have tranny problems.

 

[3rdgenfan]

If you take a look at the sticky at the top of the forum, that's a master directory of info threads. One of the threads is a buyers guide that probably has answers to all of your questions.

Get under the truck and try to pinpoint where the tranny leak is. It would suck to buy it and have tranny problems.

Says he has no issues driving. He drives the vehicle everyday. Def gonna put my eyes on it.

 

[M-Piers97]

This should answer all your questions http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html

 

[white_n_slow]

If it's the pan gasket, you should be able to tell by looking at it. If it is not the pan gasket, I would pass on this truck or at least try to low ball him.

 

[Desert36]

I got mine for wheelin', no e-locker would have been a fail. And I don't like steel wheels. Your buying it knowing your going to invest some money in it doing repairs not mods. I wouldn't buy it but if you like it, go for it.

 

[Hog1983]

I would ask him about maintenance, timing belt, tranny service, front and rear diff fluid change, transfer case... If he is unable to provide proof then you should low ball the shit out of him. I bought mine without thinking of all this, and Im out @800 on doing just regular service things.

 

[LINY4Runner]

As others have suggested, check out the Buyer's Guide. Take a peek at the rear drums, see if they're leaking fluid; axle seals are common. Valve Cover Gaskets are super common. Ask him about the radiator; has it been replaced? Have the lower ball joints been replaced? Check the frame for rust/rot...ANY signs of anything more than surface rust, run!
For the transmission leak, there's not much in there to leak. Pan or maybe stripped out threads on the drain plug (they're VERY thin). Should be obvious what it is that's leaking when you take a peek.

I think $3900 is a little high for the mileage, I'd offer $3300-3500.

 

[Srabai]

I would ask him about maintenance, timing belt, tranny service, front and rear diff fluid change, transfer case... If he is unable to provide proof then you should low ball the shit out of him. I bought mine without thinking of all this, and Im out @800 on doing just regular service things.

I've put in well over $1000 in replacement parts and service stuff since I bought my 97 in september. It seems that most people think oil and fuel are the only things that need attention in a cars life.

For the tranny issue, I've got the same thing going on. Let's hear what it is if you do buy it.

 

[z28forlife]

I don't think that's a bad price. Even if you gotta but a new trans in you're only looking at $1000-1500 and then you don't have to worry about that for the probably the life of the truck.

 

[3rdgenfan]

I don't think that's a bad price. Even if you gotta but a new trans in you're only looking at $1000-1500 and then you don't have to worry about that for the probably the life of the truck.

Ya he is saying its not bad. Just has to add about a quart of fluid every two months. Thanks guys for all your input. Will make a list and do a good walk over. I'm guessing the best way to check for the common strawberry milkshake is the color of the tranny fluid on the dipstick?

 

[3rdgenfan]

Good news is that I found a wrecked 2000 4wd close to me and said that I can have the whole rear axle and all the electronics to do the e-locker conversion for $700. Is that a good deal? Also is the auto climate control a direct plug and play swap?