What to look for

[aalcanatar084]

Hey guys

First time posting anything here, so here goes nothing. I'm looking to buy a 1st gen 4runner 4cyl stick. I'm looking for something I can drive around town and take camping occasionally.…my question is, are there certain things I should be looking for as warnings that that vehicle needs alot of work? I found a 86 4runner with 260,000 miles and a super clean body and interior for 2500. One friend told me that was too much for a vehicle with that many miles and the other one told me that was a deal. I really don't know what I should be looking for so if you guys can give me some tips, I would greatly appreciate it.

 

[KidVermicious]

Depending on where you're at, $2500 is a decent deal for a real clean truck. Look at the frame and inside the fenders for rust, and see if you can find out when the timing chain was done last. 260,000 miles is about average for an '86, and it might be due for an engine rebuild, but a rebuilt engine will give you another 250k minimum, and there's no cars being built today that can say that.

If it's mechanically sound, I'd pull the trigger.

 

[fourwd1]

Depending on where you are frame rust is the biggest problem.
It rust from the inside out, so it's not that noticeable until it's bad.
260K is a lot of mileage for any vehicle, and $2500 sounds a little high unless it is in cherry condition. But prices vary widely across the US.