So, first post here. Anyway, I've been reading this site for a while and decided to ask what the best modifications/maintenance tasks for a '99 4Runner V6 4x4 Auto with 145k to keep it in good operating condition. Here's a list of the things I've gathered from reading the site:

1. Flush tranny fluid and make sure there's no "strawberry milkshake"
2. Add aftermarket tranny cooler to prevent "strawberry milkshake"
3. Replace radiator with 5speed manual radiator (flush system while your at it)
4. Remove running boards (they look lame anyway)
5. Add sidemarker lights (I think they look good, I know there''s are other opinions)

I just completed a starter contact and plunger replacement using the great write-ups on this site. Thought I would ask if anyone has any other things I should be checking so I can make my 4Runner last another 145k miles.

 

Unless your radiator is bad, I wouldn't replace it, just go with the external trans cooler.
Timing belt been done? should be every 90k
Plugs, wires, that sort of stuff.....
Valve Adjustment...
Thats about it!!!

 

Some would argue that replacing the radiator for an auto tranny vehicle is a cheaper way to go to avoid the milkshake syndrome and a lot less trouble.

I'm a 5 speed guy myself but following along for my friend with an 01 Limited so coming up on 10 years for her original radiator. We're mulling the options on whether to go with an external cooler and cap off the radiator ports for the tranny or to just replace the radiator and go for another 10 years with a new one.

If your rear axle seals have not yet been replaced they are a common trouble area-when they go they tend to soil the rear brake drums and shoes so prevention is a good way to go.

Alignment shop will be able to tell you a lot about your suspension underpinnings-at your mileage the tie rod inners/outers ball joints need checked/inspected/likely replaced. I myself use Firestone/Tires Plus as they still sell lifetime alignments. Power steering flush/tranny flush/synthetics in the diffs... just page back a few pages in 3rd gen Runners and you will get a lot of ideas of what to do- before something breaks.

I am going with side marker lights myself but I am overwhelmed with projects right this minute. For another dress up item I like the hood struts to replace the prop rod. Totally un-necessary but impresses the mechanics that work on my ride. The upgrade options are endless so get your wallet ready sir.

Welcome aboard-

this is how messy the drivers side rear axle seal looks when it blows. Mine was actually done twice before the correct part was used-be sure the part number ends with digit #6 if you get this done.

 

Sweet! Thanks for the tips guys

 

Strawberry Milkshake Question.. I have been searching and reading, and I don't want this to happen to me. 97 4 runner, 137k miles, 4 spd auto & 3.4l engine.. Two lines from Tranny to the Bottom of the Radiator.. I am guessing this is the setup that gives the problems in the long run?

Can someone verify my suspicions?

 

You're right.

 

That's the setup. You take the hoses that are going to the radiator off and hook them to an external cooler (most need to run new hoses as they aren't long enough). Then plug the in and out on the radiator where you took the hoses off (or run a tube from one to the other.

OP, You either replace the radiator every 5-10 years OR install an external cooler and keep the radiator you have now (until it leaks or gets gunked up like any other old radiator).

 

Thanks!

Perfect, that is what I needed to know. I will get 'er done. Thanks!