I'm looking at An 88 4runner with a 22r with 173xxx miles. He said the he had the top rebuilt. (Head machined, new valves, Head gasket, exhaust gasket plugs, rotor, and cap wires). It's sas with a small lift nice looking truck. He wants 3500 for it. He said the only leak on the truck is coming out of the power steering. I'm not much of a mechanic, so I was wondering if some of yOu can help me out on this. How serious are power steering leaks? How hard are they to fix, and how pricy would it be to replace the power steering box? Any help on this would be appreciated. Thanks yotatech. By the way I'm from California.

 

First, you need to know where the power steering system is leaking, ie. pump, gear box, hoses. A new/rebuilt steering gear box can be very pricey, but they are not too hard to reseal, I did one this past weekend and the reseal kit cost me $50 from autozone. Pumps are typically simple to reseal as well, although I have not yet done one on a 22re. And anyone can replace hoses. I wouldn't let that be a deal breaker if you otherwise like the truck.

Oh yeah, Welcome to yotatech! There's lots of knowledge and help here.

 

Yeah I agree with 87 - it's not a deal breaker if you otherwise love the truck. Find out what part is leaking first. Rebuilding the pump is not a huge deal if you're ok tackling anything mechanical.
Ask for proof of the head rebuild or figure it isn't when making your offer. Make sure the SAS looks like it was done well, not a hack job. GOod luck!

 

Power steering pumps are no big deal and leaking is not uncommon. If the rest is great, go for it, its a pretty easy fix.

 

Thanks for all of the help, hopineverything works out. I'll post some pics soon if so.

 

One think you should think about is these high mileage Toyotas if indeed the head has all new valves.

These engines are known for the bottom end ( bearings going out) I have never really been able to prove this theory wrong.Nor do I have the extra money to do so

I have heard of it happening several times it is like the next weakest link in the chain.

Something to ponder

 

my PS box has leaked for 3+ years now...It keeps the entire side of the motor and frame rail rust free LOL

seriously tho, ANY issue with the Power Steering system is NOT a deal breaker, it can all be easily replaced. My trug I mean truck is highly modified but back in the dizaayy..when it was still a stock 1987 toyota pickup, it didnt have Power Steering and i knew about as much as you do is appears which is close to nill lol ... point is it cost me $100 to score all the components to the power steering setup (bracket, pump, hoses, resevoir, steering box and pitman arm) ...

pretty cheap mate

have fun!