New to 1st Gen T4R
- Thread starter Jamkidd
- Start date
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Cali 4runner
New member
One with a 22re and 5 speed. I have a 1987 4runner sr5 and absolutely love it! The sr5 back then meant all the creature comforts--> a/c, power everything, cruise control, clinometer, ect. But I wanted those and a 22re so it limited my search. I hear good/bad things about the 3.0 but you can't go wrong with the bulletproof 4 banger
junkyardbiker
New member
If you find a running /driving 1st gen with the 22RE and manual trans, it will probably keep running and driving as long as you feel up to doing the maintenance. Parts are cheap and plentiful, easy to work on, and if you have questions there is probably a thread here about it already. My '89 has 436,000 miles on it now and is my daily driver. The 3.0 (3.slow) is known for blowing head gaskets and really doesnt seem to be any better for power than the 22RE. You can swap almost any motor into a first gen without massive fabrications, and as long as it hasnt been beat on and had the mounts tweaked, the IFS is a great setup for most things with a little modification. 1st gens are also known for rear spring sag. Search Zuk mod for a budget repair. Rodger Browns website has a write up with pics for almost every known problem. read through there before really looking at 4runners and you will be armed with serious knowledge on what a 4runner will need to have done when you buy it. Good luck and happy hunting!
flagbasher
New member
I was told EMPHATICALLY by a guy whose 4Runner I was looking at that I should absolutely get a 22RE and to avoid the 3.0 at all costs. I guess the 22R is probably in the same boat as the 22RE if you're fine with the carb.
He did speak highly of the 3.4 though, but I assume finding a 3.4 swapped 1st Gen is probably pretty rare.
With the 22RE, it's probably worth knowing the last time the timing chain and head were done. The chain guide can wear out and let the chain saw into the engine, allowing oil and coolant to mix. Bad times there.
That's all this 3 month newbie knows.
He did speak highly of the 3.4 though, but I assume finding a 3.4 swapped 1st Gen is probably pretty rare.
With the 22RE, it's probably worth knowing the last time the timing chain and head were done. The chain guide can wear out and let the chain saw into the engine, allowing oil and coolant to mix. Bad times there.
That's all this 3 month newbie knows.
RAD4Runner
Senior Member
If you do not need the power, 22R-Eliable FTW! Simple, reliable, leaves plenty of room to inspect things so you see potential problems more readily, AND if you have electrical problem, you know who to ask for help 
3.0 has troubles
3.4 is very good, but if you like to do things yourself, it would probably crowd your engine compartment.
One simple thing to do that does not require any equipment but could help detect bad HG [ask me how I know]:
Bargaining point, see rear-suspension sag. Easy to fix after you buy,
3.0 has troubles
3.4 is very good, but if you like to do things yourself, it would probably crowd your engine compartment.
One simple thing to do that does not require any equipment but could help detect bad HG [ask me how I know
]:- With engine cold, or safely-vented, take radiator cap off,
- Start engine,
- Watch for bubbles.
Bargaining point, see rear-suspension sag. Easy to fix after you buy,
