LimitedSR5

Hey i read through the FAQ and found out about the headgasket issue that needs to be replace. I still have several questions so if someone can just bare with me since I could not find it in the FAQs. Does the 98 model 6 cyl have this problem? Since I'm gonna purchase a used 98 4 runner, will the dealer help fixed my headgasket problem for free?? Or will they charge me?? I have went to 2 toyota dealers here in nyc before when I had my toyota supra and I do not want to go to them again because they have ripped me off. Let me know.

viperdan

I thought it was only the 2nd gen 3.0 v6 (3vze) with the headgasket issue. The dealer fixes that for free I believe.

DudeBud

not sure on this but it i remember right the frist 3.4 v6 had HG problems. you are ok

USAtruck6

just note not all 2nd gens are on the recall. check first with the dealer. mine wasn't

MTL_4runner

Recall was for the 96-97 3.4L only.....98+ did not have an issue.
They did have a campaign to replace the HG free, but I think it has since ended.

LimitedSR5

Thanks for the friendly response. Really appreciated and it was helpful. I've read the FAQs again and did not realized it apply to the 3.0L engine not the 3.4L. Like I said before I'm planning on getting a 98 4runner SR5 3.4L model. Is there any other issues big or small that I should be aware of??

kevin444

Make sure the rear spring recall is done only if it applies.

MTL_4runner

The recall does apply to 3rd gens too but with a 98 it will not have that issue. One more thing to think about is that in 1999 the 3rd gen went through a redesign so there might be some features that you would not get from the year before.

rimpainter.com

Look for leaky waterpump seals (you will see fluid with a flashlight on the crank pulley), leaky rear axle seals (have to pull the drums), and warped front rotors (bad shake during braking).

E1

Cup holder...cup holder.......cup holder
I love my 98 but cup holder....cup holder.......cup holder.....

X-AWDriver

The main reason I sold my '97 was to get a '99 4Runner then I decided to hold out for the one I wanted period which was specifically a '99 Highlander.
The major changes that stand out to me is the convienence of two power sockets below the cig lighter plus the outlet by the tailgate is nice not to mention the little rear cargo cubby isn't so little in the '99s.
The CUPHOLDER/console change is a huge one since that older "hang your drinks from the dash" holders are atrocious plus the extra storage space in the lid of the center console is nice plus having the rear window control up by the heater controls is nicer plus the changes to the moonroof controls are better.
Was it also in '99 (maybe '98) that they changed over to auto up/down on both front windows?
OK,on to the outside goodies which the biggest thing is the headlamps and the lower (but not always better for clearance) bumper valence having integrated fog lights.
Also IMO '99 Limited wheels were the nicest of all the 3rd gens.
Alos the coils in the '99s have one more wind and typically sit near an inch higher than other years but it's hardly noticeable until you get to the '01 models which there is easily a full 1" height diff from previous years.
My '97 also didn't have a diff lock.

I'm very content with my truck but I am itching for shocks and springs and a set of tires but $$$ is a bit tight at the moment.

Hold out for a '99,I wish I would've the first time around,it would've been cheaper.