ARK_SWAMP_RIDER

I'm in search of a Toyota to use as a daily driver. I've found a 87, 1 owner, 150k original miles. 22re 5 speed. Everything works on it. It is in excellent condition inside and out. The only problem with it is a small bit of rust above the rear fender wells. No leaks, doesn't use any oil, complete new toyota exhaust system. It'll take $2k to buy it. Sound like a good deal? Thanks!

abecedarian

If I was looking for one, I'd buy it.

TOYOTA 1

x2...

abecedarian

be prepared to replace the timing chain / guides though, at a minimum.

ARK_SWAMP_RIDER

Timing chain was replace at like 130-140k miles. I can't remember for sure, but he has ALL service records. I wanted an extended cab pickup, but my dad's got one identical to this one (much worse shape) and I love it.

abecedarian

Well, a truck with service records, assuming they show service performed per the factory schedule... I'd probably expect to pay 3000-4000 for if not more, not 2000.

So what are you waiting for?

ARK_SWAMP_RIDER

More pics. The guys gonna send me pics first thing tomorrow, and as long as they are as I expect I'm going to buy it. He's got a few local guys interested, so I'm just hoping he don't sell it out from under me. I'm about 7 hours away, so it'll be more difficult to meet up and get it, but I'm gonna do what I can to get it.

ARK_SWAMP_RIDER

Also, what should I look out for? The guy swears it's in mint shape minus the small bit of rust. I guess this should be in the buying/feeler forum, but it seems I get no response there, so please give me some input if you can. Thanks!

abecedarian

have the seller meet you somewhere for lunch, with the truck of course, and look for leaks on the ground after the truck's been sitting there for 1/2 to an hour. open the hood and check for oil on the underside of the hood as well as by the battery and air filter.

ARK_SWAMP_RIDER

It's a god 7 hour drive, and I have a real busy schedule. He's offered to deliver it for me if I'm for certain I'm gonna buy. I figure I'll be able to take a look at the trailer for leaks there but that's about it. He's in some type of business where he has a car hauler, so he said it won't be a big deal, just whenever I want.

ARK_SWAMP_RIDER

Pics all look good to me. Anything else I need to check for when looking at it? What do you guys think about the pics? Need opinions quick, should be closing the deal tonight.

Cwaters1184

that truck looks nice. id buy it for 2 all day. make sure you try out 4 wheel drive, go through the gears, put in high gears and mash the gas a little and check the clutch. look for white smoke or anything thing other than normal coming out of the exhaust, all the normal things. needs some cosmetics but thumbs up from me. ♦

ARK_SWAMP_RIDER

Bump. I've gotta commit to buy this thing tonight if it's gonna happen. On two places (both on the passenger side), there's about a half dollar coin size spot of rust that's all the way through. The rust on the drivers side rear fender is only surface rust. I don't need a project, I need something ready to drive. Sure, the body might could use some patching, and i am fine with that as long as it is mechanically sound. Any thoughts? Thanks!

ARK_SWAMP_RIDER

I'm going to pass on this deal. The whole thing isn't adding up. I found it on craigslist, and I'm really afraid it's a scam. Interior doesn't look bad from the pics. It's got new seat covers, so who knows what the seats look like underneath. He swears it's been garage kept, but there's a pretty large amount of rust. My 87 4runner I use as a farm vehicle doesn't have near that much rust, and it's been beat to death and left out it's whole life. If there's rust there, it makes me wonder about the frame and other crucial items. He's willing to drive the 7 hours to meet me, but on my dime. I don't wanna risk that money for something I'm not sure on. Also, the title is not in his name. The original owner has signed it over to him, but in 4 years he's had it he never sent it off nor even signed it. Something's fishy, so I'm gonna go with my gut feeling I believe. Let me know what you guys think.

a4runnerfreak

I'd pass on it, too. He's had it how long, and didn't transfer the title into his name? That right there would make me pass on it.

ARK_SWAMP_RIDER

Yep, something just doesn't make sense. I'm really thinking about trying to sell my car and get a 01-04 double cab 4x4, it'd probably be much more practical. I've talked myself into facing facts: regardless of how it's been treated, a truck over 20 years old will need a few things here and there, and that's money I don't have. Anyhow, I really appreciate the input you guys have given me, still part of me wishes it would have worked out.

Shawn6string

Your right. they need maiitence after 20 years. I have two and after a lot of mile a few things need replacing. Get a newer yota for a DD. Although the first gens are great and are dear to my heart. I don't dirve mine as a DD anymore. In fact my DD was broke down the other day and I had to drive my 88 for a few days and blew a head gasket, what a bummer. My DD is back now and I must start on the head gasket now.