Thinking of getting '99 or '00 4Runner

[nighthawk]

So, since the new 4Runner's aren't available in manual tranny, I'm toying with the idea of getting a '99 or '00 one since those are the latest ones I can get with the manual tranny. However, I've never owned a 4WD before and haven't bought a used vehicle in a while. I live in Canada, so the only model available to us in manual was the SR5 V6 4WD. If I find one, what are some things I should look out for? I really want a 4Runner but this is the only ones I'm considering right now due to the transmission. However, I'm just worried that I might get burned in the end as I have no idea what to look out for.

Thanks in advance!

 

[riverrat44]

I'm new to 3rd gens but things the experts say to check are the rear axle seals, which tend to leak. The V6 engines need the timing belt replaced every 90k miles, so make sure that has been done. It is an expensive repair.

I bought a 2000 4runner 4WD 5 speed with the 4 cylinder 3RZ-FE engine about a month ago. It has enough power for my needs, but these are quite rare. 2000 was the last year for both the 4 cyl engine and the 5 speed manual trans.

I had the steering rack bushings replaced with polyurethane ones, the first repair on the new rig, which tightened up the steering. I've heard this is another common weak spot, but its a cheap fix.

 

[nighthawk]

Thanks for the info. I don't think the 4 cylinder was offered in Canada anymore at that time. All I ever see up here are V6's. How's the power on the 4-cylinder? The only 4Runner I ever drove was a 1992 one and I just fell in love with 4Runners after that.

 

[riverrat44]

How's the power on the 4-cylinder? The only 4Runner I ever drove was a 1992 one and I just fell in love with 4Runners after that.

Well as I mentioned the 4 cyl works for me. It is certainly no powerhouse, but it moves the 4runner surprisingly well- 150hp compared to 183 for the V6. It seems to have more torque than the 22RE engine in my 1988 4runner. I plan to add an LCE header and freer flow exhaust, which seems to help these engines.

If you are used to V8s, you would probably not be happy with it, but I have only owned 4 cylinder cars and trucks so it is fine for me. Gas mileage and lower maintenance costs (no timing belt) are more important to me than more power, so I feel lucky to have found the rig I did in such nice shape. They are quite rare.

PS: I think you are wise to look at 3rd gen 4runner and pass on the 90-95 2nd gens. The 22RE is a great motor but not quite up to moving the 2nd gens, which are somewhat heavier than the 1st gens, and the 3.0 V6 is a gas hog, with head gasket issues to boot.

 

[nighthawk]

Cool. Thanks for the info!