I'm going to look at a 97 4runner. I know nothing about the 3rd gen 4runners. Are there any problem areas or anything I should look for in the 3rd gen's??

All I know about it right now is from the guys ad......

"for sale is a 97 toyota 4runner, truck is lifted with oversize tires. 161000 miles. runs excellent. no fluid leaks of any kind. does not burn any oil."

I was looking for a 2nd gen (maybe a nice 1st gen) 4runner and came across this 97. Seems like a good deal.

Are all the 3rd gens Automatic??

Any help or info is appreciated.
Thanks

 

No not all 3rd Gens are automatic. If you plan on 'wheeling with it then see if it has an e-locker (or electric locker). You will save money and time instead of installing a locker later. The common problems seem to be constant warped rotors (search for Tundra caliper rotor), rear axle seals leak on them (search diff breather mod), and strawberry milkshake transmission fluid (search after market tranny cooler).
Hope this helps and you can find many mods and upgrades for them as well. I really love mine though I wished it had a factory e-locker.

 

IronMike, thanks for the info. I had searched around a little before I made this post and saw the milkshake thing.

So I should check the rear axle for leaks, see if the wheel shakes outa my hand while braking and pull the trans dipstick and see what the fluid looks like. Does it need to be hot to check for the milkshake??

Is there anything else to check....How are the frames on them?? Any one spot known for rust problems??

Just talked to the guy....its Auto and no locker. He said there is a little rust spot on each side near the backs of the rockers and the back of the frame had a little surface rust but that's it. The tires are 315's and almost down to half tread.

Beside the tranny cooler milkshake issue are there any problems with the automatic transmissions??

Even if it does have some minor issues I think its a good deal.
He is asking $3,500 or best offer.

 

Sounds like a good deal to me. As far as rust spots I am not aware of any problems; but then again I live below the salt belt and from your information you are in PA. You'd know more about vehicle rusts than I would. When I do an inspection in the shop I check for the following: lights, all fluids and their conditions, any vibrations or looseness (wheel bearings and etc.), test drive the vehicle. Are there any unusual noises? Does it shift good, does it accelerate well? (Keep in mind the 4runners are heavy and won't throw you in the back seat) How does the engine sound?
I would also check and be sure the timing belt and other maintenance have been done. Ask if he or she has service records. It will tell you how much care they have put into the vehicle. Good luck! If you pick the right one you won't be disappointed.

 

Does it matter what year the tundra calipers are?