maui454

On Monday I am looking at a 1989 Toyota truck it is 4x4 5 speed V6 ex cab with 160000 miles. It has a mild lift on it. What are the main areas I should pay attention to? I am meeting the guy somewhere so the truck will be warm. I always wanted a truck like this. It is old but I don't need anything to fancy. How are these in the reliability department?

pwd

Depends of how well it was maintained, but my experience thus far with the V6 is that its very reliable. The 5-speed is nice. Check for rust underneath, mostly near the back of the truck since thats where all the weather seems to go. Get the VIN, and call up Toyota to see if its eligible for any outstanding service campaigns (recalls). AFAIK all 89-95 V6s have a headgasket recall. I've got two v6 3.0Ls with 235,000 km (146, 000 miles) and 308, 000 km (192, 000 miles) and no problems. They haven't had the headgaskets replaced. The 146K has a leaky valve cover I think but I'm not too concerned as long as I fix it soon. This site is a fantastic knowledge base for our vehicles, if you need something just do a good old fashion search and 99.9% of the time you will find everything you need to know. Be sure to post lots of pictures here if you decide to buy it, good luck!

muddbogg21

just make sure the headgasket is good check for bubbles on the dipstick or ask him if its ever been replaced other good truck i feel like you either have a good v6 or you dont its either a hit or miss anyone else feel that way

chrishf12

Depends on where you are buying the truck from but on the east coast rust is the number one thing to look for. The bed above the tail pipe is the usual problem area on these but be sure to check the frame and rest of the body out good. A little surface rust wont hurt just make sure the structure is not bad.

maui454

Thanks for the info. I live in Hawaii so that is where i will be buying. I am going to try and look at the truck today. Wish me luck.