Need HELP looking at 3rd generation

[bikerjosh]

Ok, please keep the flaming to a min. Can someone point in the direction of an existing thread or info on what to look for in a used 3rd generation 4runner? After looking over all the options a 97-00 4Runner is going to fit the bill. What should I be looking out for, I know the general timing belt, h20 pump but what other deferred maint issues are going to hurt me?
By the way looking for a 3.4, 4x4,AT and locker.
thanks Josh:ybrick:

 

[JohnsD90]

Listen to the rear diff for whining, check the radiator for "pink milkshake", see if the tranny slips, check bumpers for rust, check the coolant lines for rust, timing belt, water pump, Ask if they used synthetic or non synthetic oil (just for future reference), check to see if the rear axle seals are leaking, and if the head gasket and valves are leaking, and thats all i can think of.

 

[bikerjosh]

Thanks for the advice. Is the "pink milkshake" mean the tranny cooler is leaking into the rad?
Love the avatar.

 

[01t4rnr]

rear axle seals,here is how to tell

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...e-information-replacement-thread-3rd-gen.html

 

[Pikeman]

Also if you let us know what area you are looking in, that might help us give you information. Heck someone might even offer to help you go look at one. I know the North east ones are usually not your best choices due to the road salt and rust issues.

 

[bikerjosh]

4runner finding

Also if you let us know what area you are looking in, that might help us give you information. Heck someone might even offer to help you go look at one. I know the North east ones are usually not your best choices due to the road salt and rust issues.

Thanks I'm up in the Bay Area in California. I work in Emeryville, CA but am scouring ads from California-Oregon-Arizona & Nevada.
Thanks Josh

 

[JohnsD90]

Thanks for the advice. Is the "pink milkshake" mean the tranny cooler is leaking into the rad?
Love the avatar.

Yes about the pink milshake, and thanks, i saw the pic and immediatley knew it would make a great avatar.

 

[bikerjosh]

rear axle seals,here is how to tell

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-g...e-information-replacement-thread-3rd-gen.html

Great write up, thanks for passing along. Yep, going to try and avoid buying one with a leaky seal.
Josh