Shopping for a 2nd Gen 4Runner. What to look out for?

[TehDago]

I am shopping for a 2nd gen runner for my wifes daily driver. We do plan on doing some off roading (for camping/hiking/etc) but mainly it will be used for carting kids around and getting groceries.

I am mainly looking at SR5's, and want to make sure I get my hands on something reliable. Gas Mileage is not an issue. She doesn't do a whole lot of driving.

I am trying to get a good idea of common issues to look out for.

From what I have read there are some issues with head gaskets. Is this issue common to certian years/engines, or is it across the boards. Please don't tell me they are as bad as the Supra! LOL

I have also read that if the Auto Transmission fluid has not been maintained the shift solenoids will stick. Can this usually be fixed with a simple flush and filter replace?

Rust isn't really an issue for me since I live in Las Vegas.

I would really appreciate any input from you guys on what to look out for while I am shopping.

 

[TehDago]

Over 15 views and no replies?

I tried to search and have been looking for common threads. I would just like to be thorough when I look at this truck.

I have an appiontment to look at a 95 tomorrow with 139k on the clock.

Other than the regular fluid leaks from engine, tranny, transfer case and axles, what else should I be looking for?

Any help would be appreciated... Even if you are just telling me about the problems yours has had... Gives me some info to go off of.

 

[4R_in_Uzb]

Sorry noone replied so far.
I own a 1990 4R gas 3vze engine, V6 manual.
I did have a gasket problem and it wasn't as big a problem really, but I live where labor is not very expensive comparing to USA. I payed $100 for the job and about 300 for parts including new bearings for starter and alternator and other parts.

If your wife is primarily going to drive kids and do groceries, I'd say that it is a little difficult to get in the back seat due to a slightly narrow rear door and high floor. It's fine for kids when they are little it's fine, my kids love it there, but I don't feel comfortable in the back. Getting in the driver's seat could also be difficult if the steering wheel is tilted down, your knees will keep hitting it getting in and getting out. My wife is not tall and she always has problems getting inside, and my truck is not lifted..

Although it is a great vehicle both on-road and off-road! It's fast, comfortable (front seats), it has lots of space in the back, but raer window may give you problems at times.

I think 4Runners are for those who love them.

If you asked me I'd personally switch to LandCruiser 80 if I had funds (those are usually more expensive and a lot more expensive in my country).

Hope it helps.

 

[evilsanta2]

Out of curiosity, have you looked at it now?

The V6 in the 2nd gen's had problems with head gaskets. If you can, find out from the owner if it has ever been replaced. I haven't had a problem in 290xxx KM with my V6 head gasket. *knocks on wood*
I have no clue about the auto transmission, sorry.
The T4R's are great vehicles. I'm sure you'll be happy if you decide to go with one.
Cheers.

 

[TehDago]

I am going to look at one in a couple hours.

Thank you 4R_in_Uzb: Thats some good information to have. It will definitely need to gather "wife approval" before we get it. I have read about the V06 recall, and will be asking about it. I plan to run the VIN through Carfax and Toyota to get some kind of history.

Regarding the Land Cruiser... I'd LOVE to get one of those... Or a Range Rover, but here in the USA people place an insane premium on them. So they really aren't worth the amount of money you end up paying. Then when you need parts they get you again!

Chances are the wife wont be driving it too long. Once my car is paid off she will probably get something new and the 4Runner will stick around as a toy, or for towing and hauling.

Thanks guys, for contributing. I will certainly post back my progress and pics when and if I find my 4R.

This is a great forum you have here. I have been able to find a lot of great information.

 

[TehDago]

Welp... we bought the 95. Previous owner had plenty of documentation and the service was all done at a Toy dealership with a good reputation locally. So I am sure the headgaskets have been done.

Thanks for your input. I look forward to being a contributing member of your community.

 

[Zinarac]

Congrats on the purchase! Let's see some pictures when you have the time.

 

[TehDago]

Certainly... My wife spent a good portion of the day cleaning it out, she is excited to wash the outside and make it shine (it will be her daily driver).

I need to detail the goat too. Maybe next weekend I'll throw up some pics of em both.

Here is all I have so far.

 

[4R_in_Uzb]

Congratulations!!!
It looks good. Original rims too.
Have fun!
Let us know how you find it, try it off-road too.

 

[Zinarac]

Looks good. Very clean looking 4Runner!

 

[Red]

Very nice, I wish mine was that clean looking. I've got alot of dents and dings to work on eventually but I hate body work.

Congrats on the 4Runner though, I really like that color

 

[TehDago]

Thanks guys... I really can't complain about the condition. Seeing as it is a 13 year old car and I got it for $3700 with low mileage.

It's got door dings and a big scrape down the other side, but nothing major. The endcaps to the running boards are also missing on one side.

The muffler had come disconnected. So it was pretty loud. I got the muffler welded back together yesterday and it drives great with ice cold AC.

Plans for now are to replace the parasitic stock belt driven fan with a Flex-a-Lite electric setup, then change out all the fluids. After that it will just get driven. Once school is out it'll start getting some off-road workouts when we go camping.

Anyone know a good place to buy a roof rack?

 

[awdjunkies]

Beautiful 4runner, congrats on the purchase. she does look immaculate. take care of her and she will take good care of you(your wife/kids) I myself just bought one exactly the same color

As for the roof rack I am sure people will chime in here pretty quick but I will keep an eye out too..:

 

[TehDago]

We have had good luck with Toyotas in the past.

I found a nice Safari rack, but they are re****ed expensive. I might try to find a factory one in a junkyard.

 

[TehDago]

... an update

Well... had the t4r for just over 6 months.

In that time I have had to put 2 mufflers on it (the first shop effed it up pretty bad), replaced the idler pully, and replace the transmission with a junkyard trans. The original trans developed a crack in the case!! My mechanic buddy said it looks like some hamfisted idiot overtightened the trans pan bolts at some point and heat took care of the rest.

It vibrates like crazy on the freeway (can't drive faster than 60), and gets 10mpg on a good day.

however, we still think it has been great. Finally put the 4wd to good use last weekend after driving off into 4 feet of snow (funny, didn't look that deep).

This site and yotatech.com have been INVALUABLE. Thanks to you all for the information on here.

 

[awdjunkies]

Sweet.. Thanks for the update :bigok:

 

[TehDago]

Another Update

T4R is still running strong. Just did the timing belt, tinted the windows, replaced the saggy rear springs with moog's, and put new tyres on. Getting ready to hit some trails this summer.

Thanks for all the help on this site!!!

Still loving this truck