JMT529

Hi, I am looking at this 99 4Runner that I might purchase. It has a 4 cyclinder engine and is 5speed. Does the engine bay look right? To me, it doesnt look straight for some reason, but maybe thats how its supposed to be? Thanks in advance.


Click here for a bigger version


Click here for a bigger version

JMT529

Engine doesn't look in good shape for a '99 with just under 40k miles does it?

pfdaxe

What's the starting price and why are you looking at the 4cyl...fuel economy??

JMT529

I'm looking at the 4 cyclinder cuz I think thats all I can afford. =( I was looking for earlier models(96-98) V6 models, but none seem to be in good condition for the right price. I trying to spend only around $11000 for a used car. If any more expensive, my parents would rather I buy a new, cheaper car instead.

Javin028

How can you tell?

Nolan

it looks just like mine. As a tip, most 4cyl engines will develop or have a crack in the exhaust manifold. shine a light in the heat shield and check if it has one. It isnt a big deal but you can talk them down on the price.

91Runner

That does look a little odd to me. It looks almost like one side of the engine is lower than the other. Although I have never seen what the 4 Cylinder engine looks like, so it could be completely normal.

But I'd look into it, because that just doesn't seem right.

Good luck finding a 4Runner

*EDIT* ACK! You beat me by a minute Nolan Well I guess Nolan just answered your question about the engine

-Braden

Schuey2002

All I know is that the 2.7l in my Taco doesn't have the lean that the engine in that photo does..

Also, I'd kill to have my engine look like that again; shine wise..

Mine looks like it was dunked into a saltwater bath. Hehehe.

edit:

Is the radiator in that thing stock?! It looks nothing at all like mine. The top of mine has a plastic top, that one looks like its metal. Weird.

Also, is it just me or has this truck been repainted. Checkout the firewall (on the left) where the wiring harness comes though. I may be wrong (it could be the photo or lighting) but it looks lighter in color..

rimpainter.com

That tilt/angle on the 2.7 is normal (if that's your question).

Ric

if you really like THAT ONE, take it to a mech. or shop that you trust, have them check it out.........

keisur

The baterry looks like it's got a plastic bag over or something. I don't know. the engine looks to be in fine shape to me, I been in mud and gunk and at 40k mine looked twice as bad as that, my '98 V6 4runner engine that is. Of course, it looks like that had it steam cleaned which may explain the bag on the battery. better take that off first chance you get if you get this thing. also slap the red positive terminal cover back on and clean it a little, it looks like it's corroded. spray some terminal spray on it and get some felt gaskets for the terminals too. It looks straight to me, that's how my wife's '99 4x4 taco 2.7L engine sat. I think they had an intake kit on it because that whole airbox/maf/intake assembly looks way to clean. must have taken it off to make extra money on ebay or something.

JMT529

Ok, thanks for your help guys. Also, people with 4cyclinder 5 speed runners, how do u like them? I dont think I mind the 4cyclinder since all my previous cars have been weak, a Civic and Celica both with under 110 HP. The thing that I am concerned about is the 5speed. Both my previous cars were 5speed as well, but do I want the Runner to be 5spd as well? Is the ride of comfortable and how does it feel during shifts? Thanks once again.

rimpainter.com

I love my 5 speed. I wouldnt have it any other way.

The 2.7 is a dog loaded on trips compared to the 3.4. Keep that in mind if you do a lot of traveling and hill climbing.

JMT529

There aren't many hills where I live, so I hope it isnt a problem. Only trips I plan on making are to Vegas, Big Bear mountain, and maybe to Santa Barbara county for some camping. With the Runner loaded with 5 people and equipment in the back, how will the performance be driving on normal flat roads? Thanks.

Nitro Hotpants

if this is only going to be on normal flat roads, the 2.7 5 speed is pretty cool. by no means fast or exciting, but definitely not too slow. add a header, exhaust, intake of some sort, and you will be pleasantly surprised. the 5speed shifts very easily and smoothly, and above all is just cool to have a 5 speed 4runner!

only thing i can see wrong with that engine is the radiator doesnt look right to me the top doesnt normally look like that from most 2.7s ive seen

-Casey

OicnaiC

I dont have a 4 cyl. but I think the performance of a 5 speed is way better than an auto. just my opinion though.

Schuey2002

That's what i said..

That radiator looks like one out of a mid 80's Toyota pickup..

FUGGRWE

Better check w/ Carfax to see if it's been in a wreck. That radiator looks weird to me.

airrikk17

my roomates , 2.4 93 toy pick up doesnt have that lean to it , does anyone elses motor lean like that ? maybe its just the angle of the pic or something.

definitly check out the mainfold , y pipe and such , i had to replace mine in my 87 4 runner, and my roomate just replaced his in his pickup . there is an aftermarket compnay making a more stout manifold thats supposed to hold up better to the temp changes and prevent the cracking , but i dont know who makes it . my roomate replaced his with a header .

airrikk17

butnut

I had to look at my pics to see if my valve cover tilted like that. Sure does. I have the auto tranny so I can't comment. Power is fine, could use more low end torque which I'm sure the 5 speed will compensate some. Drove my buddys '92 Runner today. Mine feels stronger. That radiator looks aftermarket. I have 106K on my '99 Runner. I don't off road which explains why my motor looks pretty clean, plus I'm an anal detailer.
Front view engine bay