questions about buying 2nd gen

[shi]

Hi everyone. Been lurking here for a while and am in the market for a 4x4 Toyota. I'm interested in finding out a little more about the 2nd gen. Mainly what to look out for when buying one. I'm in the rustbelt so frame rust concerns me. Can someone fill me in a little bit about the frames on these vehicles and what to look for? Or possibly point me towards a good thread on the subject? I searched a bit but couldn't find too much specifically about 2nd gens, but I'll admit that I didn't search too deep yet. I've owned a couple of Camrys (90 V6 and a 95 V6) so the engine and FI should be somewhat familiar to me. Also had an old 4x4 Bronco so I know a bit about four wheel drive. I'm a bit hesitant to get back into an older vehicle but have always like Toyota 4x4 trucks. Would plan on using it for camping and off roading. Oh, and manual transmissions only. Appreciate it. Thanks!
Paul

 

[mistersnowman97]

what exactly do you want to know about them? A starting point would be good.. Wanna know about the common issues, or a list of endless pros? Fair prices? Ask questions, and you will receive answers! Everyone here can tell you pretty much everything about anything from the antenna to the tailpipe!

 

[shi]

Well I guess the main thing that I'm wondering about is where to look for signs of frame rust on a 2nd gen. Sorry about the rambling post. Guess I got a little giddy!

 

[541joseph]

its normally in the rear of the car. but just check the entire frame. if you have a screw driver take it with you when you go to look at the car and the scrape the frame in several spots all over. good luck

 

[shi]

Scrape with screwdriver - check. I'll bring a flashlight too. So does the 2nd gen have a C-channel or boxed frame? Are there areas of the frame that are hidden from view or out of reach that are known to rust?
Thanks

 

[541joseph]

Just mainly any welds. And it's a box so find all the openings with the flash light and scrape inside and see if you get chips of rust.

 

[2ndGen4runner4x4]

I have a 93 Camry with the 3VZ-FE and thought the V6's would be comparable when I bought my 4Runner. I can now attest that the 4Runner 3.slow 3VZ-E is not even in the same ballpark.
Watch out for the main reason these trucks get parked... blown head gaskets.

 

[shi]

Thanks for the info guys, I really appreciate the help. Looks like I'll have to read up on the 3.slow, and stock gearing as well.
Thanks