What to look for buying first 96 4runner sr5!!?

[Jc12]

Hey guys. I've found a 96 4runner - 210km so 131 000 miles. I have heard lots about hea gasket failures .. Is this more for the second gens? The guy is open to me getting An inspection done. Also it is the fully loaded mod. Leather sunroof etc. anything in particular I should be looking at? Thanks

 

[tylerbaird]

Check out the 3rd gen buyers guide. A lot of good information there and it covers most of the things to look for when shopping for a new 3rd gen. Here's the link...

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/82033-3rd-gen-4runner-buyers-guide.html

 

[Yoterman87]

I have owned the first 3 generation 4runners (in that order) and i love the 3rd gen i just recently bought. the 3.4 is such a good engine. And 131k is nothing. the head gasket problem was a 3vz thing (3.0 2nd gen). to make the 5vz (3rd gen motor) toyota took there mistakes from the 3vz and fixed them by adding an extra .4 literes and 2 cams. and droped the distributor. you will have no problems with the engine, just make sure the timing belt got done at 90k. also the rest of the truck is amazing too. hope this helps. also welcome to T4R its all a bunch of really good guys

 

[6.2]

Also read up on the "pink milkshake"
May be something to consider if it hasn't been addressed already.

 

[sportscarfan]

Not sure where you are geographically, but have a good look underneath for a rusty frame.

 

[habanero]

Some of the early 3.4 3rd gens did have head gasket issues. I thinking not anything like the 3.0 on the 2nd gens but just so's you know about it. T-belt intervals are 60,000mi for the 96 as well so if it hasn't been done a couple of times it might be a bargaining chip? Only 131,000 miles in a truck that old too, wow.
The buyer's guide earlier linked is good stuff.