After searching Craigslist, about 10 forums, etc. everyday since July i think, i finally found a donor that I could afford and felt right. Picked up a 97 runner today in great shape! The front has been hit and pushed the radiator into the fan and crushed the driver fender, radiator support, etc. Made the 400 mile trip today to grab it.

Not a great picture. I just copied it off the guys ad.

The mounting tabs on the EVAP box are broken but not that big of a worry. I can figure out something else. NOthing hit the alternator, pulley so thats all good.

Its an auto though, so i am going to have those issues of getting it into a 92 excab 5 speed.

Anyway, I am stoked and firing up the sawzall in the morning and starting cutting smashed body parts out of the way.

I'll take what I need and then part out the rest to recoup some money that i paid for the runner.

Here we go.......

 

ooo your gonna love it got any pics ?

 

added the pic

 

perfect what you pay for it ?

 

$1,800 for the whole thing. Hope to get half that back in part-out. Interior is pristine, very new tires, paint is perfect. thing is in great shape......other than the front damage of course.
Guy had receipts from Toyota dealer. Rod bolt broke and of course ruined the bottom. Dealer installed NEW short block, oil pump, timing belt and all the little stuff @ 136,000. Has 157,000 now. Should be good for some time.

Honestly on the trip home we talked about fixing this runner rather than the swap. May be easier.....look more tomorrow. Really like a truck though and the truck is already lifted, and geared, locked in front (rear to come), etc. so 95% sure were swapping.

 

o yea you be able to make most of your money back no problem