I have been looking to buy an '85 4runner for quite some time now. They are very tough to find in my area. I know where one is at with 81,000 original miles. The body has some rust, but not nearly as bad as most in the area. It is all complete and in good shape. It has been on jackstands, tires are good, frame is solid. However it has been sitting for several years and the owner wants $2000. I think this is a good price considering they are nearly impossible to find in my area. He says that it needs a new fuel pump, but he will fix it before selling. Are there any typical problems that anyone would suggest checking?

 

mostly rust, and i'd be concerned about the condition of all the seals in the engine/tranny/t-case/axles if it's been sitting for a long time.

 

The rust can be an issue especially on the frame forward the rear spring mounts and wheel wells... you don't want to do a bunch of frame repair!
Just tap the frame w/ a hammer around the spring mounts and check that the motor is all good. Like Kyle said I would be worried mostly about the seals your gonna have to replace.

I'm looking for a rear axle

 

I SAY BUY IT!!! good deal on an awsoem truck!

 

give him 1500 as is and do the fuel pump yourself...its easy on these runners cause there is an access panel under the rear pass. seat...cake...takes longer to go to the parts store and buy it(about 130.00) than it does to replace it!! All things above are good to look out for, but with that kind of milage and little rust you cant go wrong!!!

Doug

 

if you do the fuel pump yourself, go to the dealer and get the fuel pump bracket, seal, and new hardware. no use pulling the pump only to find out that the pipes coming out of the bracket are almost rusted through. i had to replace mine on my '89 p'up, it broke when i tried to hook the fuel lines back up. no use mounting the pump twice.

 

stealer quoted me 355.00 for the pump and 490.00 for the whole assembly, mine was in perfect condition except the bad pump so I got one at checker for 130.00, see what you need before buying parts...IMO

Doug