New From WA State with 1st Gen 4Runner

[ruining]

I've had 6 Toyotas so far. '85 Truck, '86 4Runner, '95.5 Tacoma, '91 4Runner, and right now a '89 4Runner and a '76 FJ-40 Land Cruiser.

I'm in the middle of trying to make a decision about what to do. My 4Runner has some body damage and the transmission is acting up, (likely TPS from what I've read on this site) by trying to start in 4th gear. Manual shifts are getting it by for the time-being.

I'm trying to decide if I want to fix this up and keep it, or save up my money and pick up a 4 door Tacoma over the next year, or so. I really like the removable top on the 4Runner, but I already have the FJ-40 that can serve as the topless toy, and I could use a pickup.

Anyway, just joined up so I can get some inspiration, should I decide to fix and paint the 4Runner. I'm thinking get this shifting issue figured out and then a trip to the body shop.

 

[jdkilroy]

Welcome to the forum from the East coast !

Lots of great folks and info here and don't mind the search police; they're harmless.

I've always seen a lot of great condition Toyotas out your way since there is no road salt.

 

[ruining]

Thanks! Most of the rigs around here in the Pac NW are pretty rust free. My FJ-40 is a family heirloom that was parked at the beach for about 10 years, and it's got a ton of rust. Eventually, my goal is to put an aluminum body on that, but for now, I need to get a solid daily driver.

I just got a job after being a stay at home dad for the last year and half, so now is the time to fix up my '89 4Runner and my Subaru 2.5rs. I think I've decided to fix up the 4Runner.

Plans include:
1. 4 inch lift to get rid of the horrible geometry from this 2" spacer lift the PO installed that eats up tires in short order.
2. Power steering fluid leak.
3. Repair dents on both sides behind driver's door from tree damage.
4. Paint. It's red right now, but I'm thinking matte OD green or khaki/tan.
5. Tune up.
6. TPS
7. Repair/replace interior door panels, carpet, reupholster seats, (not that bad, but could use a refresh.)

That list isn't in order, obviously. I'll be here mostly to read. I mostly just use the search feature and read, read, read.