pre-purchase help for 1991 4runner with link

skicopper · 10-25-2009, 09:16 AM

Hi, I am returning to this forum after selling my old 87 runner and looking at buying a 1991 4runner. Here is the link to the ad: http://cosprings.craigslist.org/cto/1430384464.html

What things should I look for? I test drove it yesterday and the gas pedal seemed really really stiff. It also smelled like it was running rich and it was really hard to get it to start moving. If you did not give it lots of gas it would stall out as soon as you let off of the clutch. Also, it had a terrible wobble in the steering wheel. I checked the CV-boots and they were both torn. It also looked like the upper passenger side ball joint bushing was torn and leaking grease. I potentially am going to trade my older Honda for this truck. I realize it looks like i will have a little work in front of me, but nothing I have not done before. It has about 185,000 on the body and drive train. The engine was is a Jasper rebuilt 22re about 20k miles ago. The engine looks clean, just it looks like it is leaking oil from either the front of the oil pan or from the front of the engine somewhere.

Just would like your opinions and what to look out for on a 1991 4runner. The lift was professionally installed and looks good.

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pwd · 10-25-2009, 09:26 AM

Did the new motor he put in have a warranty? Are you willing to spend an unforeseen amount of time and money on this? I guess if you have the time and money, its not as much of an issue.Has it been re-geared to accommodate the larger tires? If your located in the rust belt, do the most thorough inspection you can. If you can get the VIN, call up Toyota and see if its eligible for any recalls (don't know if the lift voids any or not).

skicopper · 10-25-2009, 09:30 AM

The engine came with a 7 year warranty. However, I don't think it is transferable. It was not re-geared. The truck looked like it did not have any rust. Thanks for the suggestions about the VIN!

Kiroshu · 10-25-2009, 09:43 AM

Usually parts with warranties are void with the vehciles sold. I would look for rust, look up under it very good make sure everything is connected and not just hanging and nothing seriously broke... A stiff gas pedal is a sign of a bad throttle cable and is not serious you just gotta be a man and get used to the pedal and or replace throttle cable witch is prolly sticky and rusted. Check for leaks in engine area and cracks or hoses and parts.... if it does not sound like a sewing machine then then valves require adjustment and if it sounds like a diesel then you got chain slappin....... running rich could be alot things.... get codes? prolly vac leak or o2 sensor issue... exhaust leak....

skicopper · 10-25-2009, 10:04 AM

The check engine light was not on. However, my wife did think it sounded like a diesel. From my experience owning an older 4runner, these trucks seem very reliable. I just hope this one is as well.

Kiroshu · 10-25-2009, 10:10 AM

yea 22r's tend to sound that way 90% its normal just need a lil adjustment.

skicopper · 10-25-2009, 12:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pwd

Did the new motor he put in have a warranty? Are you willing to spend an unforeseen amount of time and money on this? I guess if you have the time and money, its not as much of an issue.Has it been re-geared to accommodate the larger tires? If your located in the rust belt, do the most thorough inspection you can. If you can get the VIN, call up Toyota and see if its eligible for any recalls (don't know if the lift voids any or not).

What do you mean by unforeseen money? Do the 5 speed transmissions hold up past 200k miles? How about the transfer case and differentials?

Thanks

22RUCRAZY · 10-25-2009, 12:43 PM

I always look for mud in spots that are hard to clean to see if the truck has been beat offroad

skicopper · 10-25-2009, 12:45 PM

Are the CV axles and ball joints hard to replace? I figure if I could figure it out on my wifes Audi A6 Quatro, it should be easy on a Toyota.

fork · 10-25-2009, 12:51 PM

i would use all these problems you mentioned to knock the price down, buy it, and spend the difference on fixing it up.

it's a 22re 5spd. hard to go wrong with that, even if it needs a bunch of work

cv axles shouldn't be too hard. balljoints might be moderate though

pwd · 10-25-2009, 12:52 PM

I just meant that usually you always find something wrong/broken when you buy a used vehicle, regardless of how well you inspect it. Thats just how it goes. With my experience, it cost me way more than I thought (its still in the body shop) due to the rust problems that wouldn't allow me to get it certified. If it was maintained half right, it should be fine. I can't chime in about the gears/tranny, but I've never heard anything bad about the 5-speed. I've got one in my pickup and its 100% with 146k miles / 235 k kms. The previous owner replaced the clutch and thats it.

skicopper · 10-25-2009, 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pwd

I just meant that usually you always find something wrong/broken when you buy a used vehicle, regardless of how well you inspect it. Thats just how it goes. With my experience, it cost me way more than I thought (its still in the body shop) due to the rust problems that wouldn't allow me to get it certified. If it was maintained half right, it should be fine. I can't chime in about the gears/tranny, but I've never heard anything bad about the 5-speed. I've got one in my pickup and its 100% with 146k miles / 235 k kms. The previous owner replaced the clutch and thats it.

Yeah, I know what you mean now. Fortunately, most vehicles in Colorado are virtually rust free. One reason for asking all of you Toyota enthusiasts is that you probably know of what areas on the car to look for that most people might overlook. Especially knowing what problem spots to look for.

peow130 · 10-25-2009, 01:20 PM

put it in 4wd to check for signs of bad CV joints or anything like that.

CO 4runner · 10-25-2009, 02:12 PM

I live in colorado springs and have seen that 4runner driving around.

My 5-speed has 195k on it and still works great. I replaced the master and slave cylinders on the clutch but thats about all i've done.

skicopper · 10-25-2009, 02:32 PM

What do to get for gas mileage? My wife does not think this truck would be practical. However, practical and fun don't always go together.

Quote:

Originally Posted by CO 4runner

I live in colorado springs and have seen that 4runner driving around.

My 5-speed has 195k on it and still works great. I replaced the master and slave cylinders on the clutch but thats about all i've done.

Kiroshu · 10-25-2009, 02:54 PM

That toyota its not practical.... its a Toyota.... nothing more said. Now the fact that its a sec gen runner with a 22re 5-speed already makes it a rare find and a good buy. If its 90% rust free then i'd offer him 2500 cash and go from there. Go for it.

CO 4runner · 10-25-2009, 09:48 PM

i have a 3.slow on my '91 but i'm guessing i get somewhere around 18 mpg. i havn't actually calculated it in a while.

skicopper · 10-26-2009, 07:33 PM

Quick Update: I took the 4Runner to the shop that put the Jasper engine in it. Here is what they found:

Exhaust leak at cat: $100
U-joints loose : $450 for all
Left front CV axle: $600
Front Wheel Bearings:$350
Front Brake pads: $200
Parking break inoperative: ??? didn't know how much$$$$$$$
front crank seal leaks oil: $650 (supposedly covered by Jasper)
Engine runs poor, needs valve adjustments, timing adjustment, plugs, wires, etc.. $89.99
Lower coolant hose soft: $150

Grand Total: $2615

The Bad: The clutch was replaced at 166,000 miles when the engine was done and now it has 188,000 miles on it and the tech made a note that the clutch disk may be getting low, a little hard to get into gear. Also, he stated that it runs poor- rich- thus recommending a complete tune up.

The good news: There is a transferable warranty on the engine that still has 1 year left on it. the front crank seal is covered under the warranty. The prices for the parts/ labor seem steep, a good way to negotiate the price. I can do most of the work for a lot cheaper myself. From what I have listed, what do you guys think my costs would be for the parts? I also did not mention I personally think the starter needs to be replaced, which on my last 4Runner was a PITA!!!!

CO 4runner · 10-27-2009, 09:30 PM

I broke the parking brake on my 91 a couple months ago. The cable just snapped. It's an easy fix, nothing to be scared of.

Ardent · 10-27-2009, 09:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by skicopper

Exhaust leak at cat: $100
U-joints loose : $450 for all

No way.
Left front CV axle: $600

I just replaced both of mine last week for $130 for Napa Remans. That includes the core charge.
Front Wheel Bearings:$350

Should be closer to $150 + grease and seal.
Front Brake pads: $200

New Toyota pads are around $80 and another $30 to turn your rotors at Checker/O'Reily.
Parking break inoperative: ??? didn't know how much$$$$$$$
front crank seal leaks oil: $650 (supposedly covered by Jasper)
Engine runs poor, needs valve adjustments, timing adjustment, plugs, wires, etc.. $89.99
Lower coolant hose soft: $150

Grand Total: $2615

Those prices seem really high. I replaced my CV shafts, did a full front brake job (new pads/ turned rotors), and repacked the wheel bearings last Saturday. Total cost was around $260 (see above). And the lower coolant hose is around a $12 part.

Definitely use those numbers for your negotiation, but do the work yourself. Good luck!

10-25-2009, 09:26 AM	#2 (permalink)
pwd Registered User Join Date: May 2007 Location: North Bay, Ontario Posts: 233	Did the new motor he put in have a warranty? Are you willing to spend an unforeseen amount of time and money on this? I guess if you have the time and money, its not as much of an issue.Has it been re-geared to accommodate the larger tires? If your located in the rust belt, do the most thorough inspection you can. If you can get the VIN, call up Toyota and see if its eligible for any recalls (don't know if the lift voids any or not). __________________ 1995 4x4 ext. cab Truck 3.0L 5-speed Bone stock, with Wab-Fab Shackles Rear Wide 6" $100 Acquired in May 07 , spent ~ $4400 on repairs so far: Paint job, parking brake cable, rad re-core, new tire winch, brake lines, fuel line, Bremo rotors, Toyota pads, new calipers (in this order), all new exhaust excluding headers 1992 4Runner 4x4 3.0L Auto Project Truck... the deeper money pit. Update Nov. 19: Fully road worthy. New Tires Coming Soon.

10-25-2009, 09:43 AM	#4 (permalink)
Kiroshu Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: wade, NC Posts: 1,305	Usually parts with warranties are void with the vehciles sold. I would look for rust, look up under it very good make sure everything is connected and not just hanging and nothing seriously broke... A stiff gas pedal is a sign of a bad throttle cable and is not serious you just gotta be a man and get used to the pedal and or replace throttle cable witch is prolly sticky and rusted. Check for leaks in engine area and cracks or hoses and parts.... if it does not sound like a sewing machine then then valves require adjustment and if it sounds like a diesel then you got chain slappin....... running rich could be alot things.... get codes? prolly vac leak or o2 sensor issue... exhaust leak.... __________________ My current: 1986 Toyota 4runner SR5 EFI 4cyl 2.4L 22RE 5-Speed 242,000 Miles 95% Stock __________________ (Still working on restoring her) My old: 1988 Toyota 4runner SR5 EFI V6 3.0L 3VZ-E 5-Speed 302,000 Miles All stock (sold)______________ (Was my fastest truck i miss her...) My old: 1989 Toyota 4runner Non-SR5 EFI 4cyl 2.4L 22RE Automatic 231,000 Miles (sold)______________ (was my quietest and slowest yota.)

10-25-2009, 10:10 AM	#6 (permalink)
Kiroshu Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: wade, NC Posts: 1,305	yea 22r's tend to sound that way 90% its normal just need a lil adjustment. __________________ My current: 1986 Toyota 4runner SR5 EFI 4cyl 2.4L 22RE 5-Speed 242,000 Miles 95% Stock __________________ (Still working on restoring her) My old: 1988 Toyota 4runner SR5 EFI V6 3.0L 3VZ-E 5-Speed 302,000 Miles All stock (sold)______________ (Was my fastest truck i miss her...) My old: 1989 Toyota 4runner Non-SR5 EFI 4cyl 2.4L 22RE Automatic 231,000 Miles (sold)______________ (was my quietest and slowest yota.)

10-25-2009, 12:51 PM	#10 (permalink)
fork Registered User Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: out in the pacific Posts: 646	i would use all these problems you mentioned to knock the price down, buy it, and spend the difference on fixing it up. it's a 22re 5spd. hard to go wrong with that, even if it needs a bunch of work cv axles shouldn't be too hard. balljoints might be moderate though Last edited by fork; 10-25-2009 at 12:54 PM.

10-25-2009, 12:52 PM	#11 (permalink)
pwd Registered User Join Date: May 2007 Location: North Bay, Ontario Posts: 233	I just meant that usually you always find something wrong/broken when you buy a used vehicle, regardless of how well you inspect it. Thats just how it goes. With my experience, it cost me way more than I thought (its still in the body shop) due to the rust problems that wouldn't allow me to get it certified. If it was maintained half right, it should be fine. I can't chime in about the gears/tranny, but I've never heard anything bad about the 5-speed. I've got one in my pickup and its 100% with 146k miles / 235 k kms. The previous owner replaced the clutch and thats it. __________________ 1995 4x4 ext. cab Truck 3.0L 5-speed Bone stock, with Wab-Fab Shackles Rear Wide 6" $100 Acquired in May 07 , spent ~ $4400 on repairs so far: Paint job, parking brake cable, rad re-core, new tire winch, brake lines, fuel line, Bremo rotors, Toyota pads, new calipers (in this order), all new exhaust excluding headers 1992 4Runner 4x4 3.0L Auto Project Truck... the deeper money pit. Update Nov. 19: Fully road worthy. New Tires Coming Soon.

10-25-2009, 09:30 AM	#3 (permalink)
skicopper Registered User Join Date: Oct 2009 Posts: 8	The engine came with a 7 year warranty. However, I don't think it is transferable. It was not re-geared. The truck looked like it did not have any rust. Thanks for the suggestions about the VIN!

10-25-2009, 10:04 AM	#5 (permalink)
skicopper Registered User Join Date: Oct 2009 Posts: 8	The check engine light was not on. However, my wife did think it sounded like a diesel. From my experience owning an older 4runner, these trucks seem very reliable. I just hope this one is as well.

10-25-2009, 12:43 PM	#8 (permalink)
22RUCRAZY Registered User Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: northern california Posts: 116	I always look for mud in spots that are hard to clean to see if the truck has been beat offroad

10-25-2009, 12:45 PM	#9 (permalink)
skicopper Registered User Join Date: Oct 2009 Posts: 8	Are the CV axles and ball joints hard to replace? I figure if I could figure it out on my wifes Audi A6 Quatro, it should be easy on a Toyota.

10-25-2009, 01:20 PM	#13 (permalink)
peow130 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Spokane, WA Posts: 757	put it in 4wd to check for signs of bad CV joints or anything like that. __________________ 1987 Toyota Pickup DLX. 30" Cooper Discoverer S/T's. 1" AAL lift and Tbar crank. and two KC HiLites. IFS Club #5 1978 Camaro Z28, 454 Big Block V8 with a 4 Speed.

10-25-2009, 02:12 PM	#14 (permalink)
CO 4runner Registered User Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: colorado springs, colorado Posts: 30	I live in colorado springs and have seen that 4runner driving around. My 5-speed has 195k on it and still works great. I replaced the master and slave cylinders on the clutch but thats about all i've done. __________________ 1991 toyota 4runner- 4inch Pro Comp Stage II lift kit w/ mx-6 shocks, 35" BFG KM2's on 17" ballistic jesters, hannemann fiberglass flared front fenders, hannemann fiberglass rear 4" fender flares, painted black. 3.4 needed soon.

10-25-2009, 02:54 PM	#16 (permalink)
Kiroshu Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: wade, NC Posts: 1,305	That toyota its not practical.... its a Toyota.... nothing more said. Now the fact that its a sec gen runner with a 22re 5-speed already makes it a rare find and a good buy. If its 90% rust free then i'd offer him 2500 cash and go from there. Go for it. __________________ My current: 1986 Toyota 4runner SR5 EFI 4cyl 2.4L 22RE 5-Speed 242,000 Miles 95% Stock __________________ (Still working on restoring her) My old: 1988 Toyota 4runner SR5 EFI V6 3.0L 3VZ-E 5-Speed 302,000 Miles All stock (sold)______________ (Was my fastest truck i miss her...) My old: 1989 Toyota 4runner Non-SR5 EFI 4cyl 2.4L 22RE Automatic 231,000 Miles (sold)______________ (was my quietest and slowest yota.)

10-25-2009, 09:48 PM	#17 (permalink)
CO 4runner Registered User Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: colorado springs, colorado Posts: 30	i have a 3.slow on my '91 but i'm guessing i get somewhere around 18 mpg. i havn't actually calculated it in a while. __________________ 1991 toyota 4runner- 4inch Pro Comp Stage II lift kit w/ mx-6 shocks, 35" BFG KM2's on 17" ballistic jesters, hannemann fiberglass flared front fenders, hannemann fiberglass rear 4" fender flares, painted black. 3.4 needed soon.

10-26-2009, 07:33 PM	#18 (permalink)
skicopper Registered User Join Date: Oct 2009 Posts: 8	Quick Update: I took the 4Runner to the shop that put the Jasper engine in it. Here is what they found: Exhaust leak at cat: $100 U-joints loose : $450 for all Left front CV axle: $600 Front Wheel Bearings:$350 Front Brake pads: $200 Parking break inoperative: ??? didn't know how much$$$$$$$ front crank seal leaks oil: $650 (supposedly covered by Jasper) Engine runs poor, needs valve adjustments, timing adjustment, plugs, wires, etc.. $89.99 Lower coolant hose soft: $150 Grand Total: $2615 The Bad: The clutch was replaced at 166,000 miles when the engine was done and now it has 188,000 miles on it and the tech made a note that the clutch disk may be getting low, a little hard to get into gear. Also, he stated that it runs poor- rich- thus recommending a complete tune up. The good news: There is a transferable warranty on the engine that still has 1 year left on it. the front crank seal is covered under the warranty. The prices for the parts/ labor seem steep, a good way to negotiate the price. I can do most of the work for a lot cheaper myself. From what I have listed, what do you guys think my costs would be for the parts? I also did not mention I personally think the starter needs to be replaced, which on my last 4Runner was a PITA!!!! Last edited by skicopper; 10-26-2009 at 07:40 PM.

10-27-2009, 09:30 PM	#19 (permalink)
CO 4runner Registered User Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: colorado springs, colorado Posts: 30	I broke the parking brake on my 91 a couple months ago. The cable just snapped. It's an easy fix, nothing to be scared of. __________________ 1991 toyota 4runner- 4inch Pro Comp Stage II lift kit w/ mx-6 shocks, 35" BFG KM2's on 17" ballistic jesters, hannemann fiberglass flared front fenders, hannemann fiberglass rear 4" fender flares, painted black. 3.4 needed soon.

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