So I have been reading many build threads, and going through the sweet rigs thread. And I have decided I love me some 3rd gens. So I have been preparing to sell my 86 and scoping CL and autotrader for a nice runner. In my area, the prices are all sitting around 6.5-9k, with mileage ranging from low 100k miles to 200k miles.

My question is what kind of maintenance is there to be expected in the 150k miles range? Specifically speaking toward the 3.4 V6. I know the 22re is usually due for a timing chain around this mileage. Thanks ahead for responses and I'll defiantly have more questions coming.

 

I belive at 100k is the big tuneup. For mine it was at least.

 

The timing belt is due at 100k miles, along with the water pump and thermostat. If you have your sights on an auto, regardless of the mileage a tranny cooler should be installed to avoid the strawberry milkshake. If no tranny cooler, at least replace the radiator every 150k. Other than that, check the lower ball joints and tie rods, at least visibly check that the rubber boots arn't torn. If they are, they are definitely due to be replaced. Good luck!

 

Thanks for the responses. I'm going to look at a couple around town soon. I found a 98 with 113k on it, my only problem is it is a 5 speed, and I'm being pretty picky. I am tired of the manuals, I've actually only ever owned manuals. Also gotta check to make sure they have that e locker.

 

how much they asking for the 98?,i've always wanted a manual

 

i payed 3g for my 97. i wouldnt worry about maintenance, theres a price for everything.

 

Paid about 9g's for mine out the door. Limited, 130k miles, rust free, Awesome shape. I did get him to pay for the timing belt seeings how he had no record of it being done. I don't regret the purchase. Just make sure the frame is not a rust bucket!

 

x2 a manual with the locker is very sought after around here. But an auto should do you plenty fine unless you do a lot of 75 mph interstate driving up and down hills, then you'll be wishing for that extra gear thats in the manual

 

The asking price on the 98 was 7995, but no e locker. I also just found a 99 w/156k, and a 2000 limited with 126k. The 2000 has the elocker. As far as me wanting an auto, yeah I do exactly 0% driving on the interstate, so my only concern is milage issues on autos.

 

well I my summer, which is what year round for AZ is, I get usually what the sticker says right between 19 highway and 16 city. leaning more on the 19 side. and I have a somewhat heavy foot but when trying for good milage I keep it under 2k when accelerating since thats right when my magnaflow sounds best too haha

 

i just purchased a 99 sr5. 140,000. timing belt had been done with a host of other details that had been taken care of at 130,000. This is to be the wife's car so elocker wasn't a selling point for me as she will not be wheeling it. This was a one owner vehicle and is spotless. Like others have stated check the frame, make sure the engine was maintained when needed, and check for wear items like tires, tie rods things that eventually wear out on any vehicle. The 3.4 is one hell of a motor and i absolutely love it. Factory tow package is a plus if you tow anything. I was really surprised at how quiet it is on the highway. I like cloth interior so that was a plus as the leather can be an issue for some of these. The thread dirtco has on his 99 is pretty inspiring as to what these can be built to do and look like.
so far the 4runner has surpassed my expectations. I'm very confident in it being my wife's daily driver for years to come.