New 1995 4runner - questions

[go2ndmile]

Hey all,

New to the forum - just bought a 1995 4runner in absolutely amazing condition. Limited trim, 3.0L V6, 4WD, all the add-ins like CD, sun roof, leather, etc. (and here's the crazy part) only 57k miles under one owner, always garaged - car is wonderful shape.

(I will post pictures later when I get back home - purchased the car over break back home in CA going to school in CO)

Had a few questions I wondered if anyone could answer, though. I would definitely appreicate your time if anyone has some good answers for me:

1. I've seen that this is a common question about the 2nd gen 4runners, but I was wondering what I could do (short of getting a new engine) to boost the power of the V6, as it is a bit sluggish. Will a tune-up do any good? I'm set to do some routine maintenance on it in a couple months, including replacing the air filter, but is there anything else I can do?

2. Another common question (bear with me), but as I'm not very knowledgable with cars and mechanical work, what should I be aware of considering the head gasket issue that seems to be a fairly common occurance with 2nd gen 4runners? What kind of signs should I watch for? Is there anything else I can do besides calling Toyota and checking my VIN for the recall to prepare for possible repairs or avoid a blow-out altogether? What are possible solutions and costs if I do have a blown gasket that Toyota won't repair?

3. Last question - since I'm going to school in Colorado and need to put some new tires on it - ones that can handle snow and ice and will last me a while. I also plan on spending a lot of time in the Rockies taking my new baby up to hiking trails and camping spots - perhaps an off-road trail or two. Any reccomendations for brand or tire type?

Thanks for the help, everyone.

 

[the_dingman]

3. Last question - since I'm going to school in Colorado and need to put some new tires on it - ones that can handle snow and ice and will last me a while. I also plan on spending a lot of time in the Rockies taking my new baby up to hiking trails and camping spots - perhaps an off-road trail or two. Any reccomendations for brand or tire type?

Thanks for the help, everyone.

BF Goodrich All Terrain T/A, those were amazing on my old 4Runner, can't wait to get them on the new one.

 

[sirhc360]

i have 2 1/2" exhaust tubing with a Dynomax muffler and replaced the air filter ( a mouse had make a nest in it and ate a hole right through). im not sure how much of a difference the exhaust kit makes because it was on when i bought the car.

when i first got it i called the dealer to see if there were any recalls for that year. there was nothing about the head gasket, there was a recall on something that had to do with a steering rod in the front.

 

[4runnerDebbie]

Awesome for you, I hope you and the family have many years of fun and good memories.

I called my Toyota Dealer and gave my vin number and they were able to tell me my car was recalled for the steering issue.

The head gasket remains a taboo subject for some reason. Some people got it, but Toyota seems to have erased all proof of it!

 

[Noltz]

The head gasket "Campaign" has ended. Toyota doesn't 'do' recalls, they call them campaigns and issue expiry dates on them. Once over, the codes will not be accepted into the warranty submission... so the dealer can't be paid for them. Plus, since I believe it's been over for a while (1999?) most service writers and managers don't even know about it.

I too just bought a 95 SR5, to replace my '91 as my DD (the 91 will be my bush truck). The 3VZE engine we both have is no powerhouse - period. The best upgrades for it that I've read are on the exhaust side: Downey Headers, 2