runner gen_1

i saw that a couple other sites had a question like this so what do you all think?

Im in the market right now for a 4runner and i cant really choose between them, so lets here pros and cons of each

rattlers

runner gen 1 , I like this thread , I have a first generation 4runner 1985 ,white sr5 ,brown interior ,5speed , 22re, locking hubs.

I like it because its a 2 door , top comes off , I dont think it weighs as much, its not even close to being as common, I rarely see 1st gen 4runner where I live , it came from the factory with solid front axle and EFI , but I guess its personal preference, but I do like the way the 2nd gens look

James Woods

iTrader: (1)

It all depends on what you will use it for, if you wont be hauling around people I would go for the first gen, the top comes off and it can be found easily with the 22re, 5 speed and manual locking hubs.

MaK92-4RnR

I have a 2nd gen that I love to death, but everyone has a special spot in their heart for a 1st gen theres things i like about the 1st and 2nd gen. I love the look of the 2nd gen and the interior is much nicer. they're both pretty capable off road. manual hubs are an easy swap on 2nd gens, but 1st gens came with them. 22res are more common in the 1st gens, but the 2nd gens had them on the base model. 1st gens had the straight axle for 2 years. 1st gens have the pop off top. they both have the crappy electrical rear window issues. I prefer the 4 doors over the two. 2nd gens had 2 door models but are pretty uncommon and only from 90-92, they also both commonly have a 5 speed.... just a couple things to help you decide.

runner gen_1

i like goin off road but nothing major like some people. I do a lot of camping and its usually me and a girl. but i mean i do drive a lot with my friends. haha it is a tough decision. right now i have a 72 chevy truck that im trying to sell to get a 4runner so idk. thanks for the feedback so far.

This will probably sound bad but whats the advantage of having manual hubs?

yodercrawler55

If you want it for wheeling and camping go with a first gen, you can fold the rear seats down and sleep in the back with the top off, modifications are easy on a straight axle, I see way more first gens than 2nd gens on trails

Tofer

go with a 1st gen if you can find one... 2nd gen are nice but i miss my 89.

MaK92-4RnR

you dont have manual hubs on your 70s truck? manual hubs on a IFS rig are nice to have because they lock your CV joints. if you have ADD the CV joints spin freely and wear them out quicker. ( think they're like a 150-300 fix, so its nice to keep them in good condition )

runner gen_1

[quote=MaK92-4RnR;51743239]you dont have manual hubs on your 70s truck?

my trucks rwd, winter was fun this last year in washington

runner gen_1

thats one of my problems is that i cant find a decent start on a 1st gen. most of the ones here are pretty beat up and i dont quite have the means to fix her up from what i have been looking at. just turned 17

MaK92-4RnR

where are you located? honestly? if you can score one... i'd get a 3rd gen, as long as you're happy with an automatic ( since manuals are rare ) or even try and get an early tacoma with the 5 speed.

runner gen_1

spokane, washington

im set on a manual specialy sense all 3rd gens round here are 6 grand plus...
same with the tacoma worth more than gold around here probably cuz of reliablilty and the snow we get in winter and june from time to time

Jory121

I have a first and second gen...they both are awesome! my 1st gen is my daily driver and everything else for that matter...2nd gen is more for like when im feelin like a cushy ride...lol really though the 1st gen wins for me because of its versatility and reliabilty hands down

runner gen_1

ive heard that the 22re is tough to get going on the freeway and stay on any truth to that. i camp and drive on the freeway frequently and dont want to opt for the v6... thanks

87 Deathtrap

I'd go with the 1st gen, otherwise you'll have to change your screen name.

My 1st gen will do 75mph on the freeway with no problem.

rattlers

I agree with 87 deathtrap , i can also go 75 on the freeway with no problem,but mine is totally stock though , if your going to run big tires and not re-gear , than I think its harder to get to speed

Junkers88

Since you mentioned that you will be doing some camping with your lady I'd recommend the 1st gen. I have an 89 and we fold the seats down and put in a Truck Bedz (actual name) inflatable air mattress in there, with a couple blankets and pillows it's pretty darn comfy. Don't worry too much about trying to find one with the solid front axle since the IFS is plenty capable on these rigs. For larger tires you'll want to regear to help maintain stock acceleration performance.

That and first gen runners are just freaking neat to drive.

01d's kool

def 1st gen 4 campin' w/ yer squeeze

rattlers

do the 2nd generation 4runners rear seats fold down like the 1st gen

toyota4x4907

Yes of course. As do 3rd gens...and I think 4th..and 5th gens... Its kind of a symbol of 4runners, much like the roll-down rear window