Rural IL Newb, 89 4runner

[Rule So Hard]

Hey everyone,
My name is Dick and I recently picked up a 89 4 runner with some minor problems. I've been looking for one for a long time but the old Toyota's really hold value....rightfully so.
Before the truck a little info about me:
I'm a professional metal fabricator and assembler for the company that produced acrease and tillease pull behind mowers and tillage equipment. I have built numerous cars and trucks and switched over to old Harley choppers a few years back. I'm not new to forums so I know the drill, read the stickies and search search search. I hate IL and want to move to the PNW.

The truck!
The bad: back window is broke out, has a bouncy idle issue(idle air control?), rusty but not bad compared to most Midwest Toyotas, has a 3.0/auto combo when I'd rather have the 22re/manual set up, high miles (233k)

The good: clean interior, decent tires, runs excellent, heat works, I've always wanted one!

Questions, what's up with the normal/power clicky button? Dash lights need fixing so I don't know if it does something up there. Its dark so can't get a good look. Also, does it sound like I'm on track with the idle air control causing the idle to surge? It also seems common for coolant related things to cause this on many Toyotas, so possibly a blockage to the throttle body.

I really look forward to being a contribution and learning from this community.

 

[Speedy Gomez]

:welcome: to T4R.ORG!

 

[buchaja]

I can't answer your questions, but welcome to the forum.

 

[chitown40]

The normal/power button is for the transmission. The power setting will require slightly less pedal pressure to downshift, as well as it will hold each gear longer so you get into the "power" band before it upshifts. It's mostly gimmick, but it does at least do what it is advertised to do.

As far as the idle, I would start with the IAC valve. It's easy to remove and inspect and of course clean. Other things you can check is the Mass air flow sensor or AFM (forget which it has). Make sure that's clean. And adjust the TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) on the throttle body. My guess would be the IAC is the culprit just because it builds up with carbon. The other thing you can check is for an intake manifold leak around the gasket. Use some carb cleaner around the gasket and see if the engine RPM increases or holds steady. That would be indicative of a leaky gasket.

Welcome! And good luck. Love them first gens!

R