I'm in Utah, I'm historically a Jeep guy (the old full size stuff and CJ's mostly, I'm on my 14th Jeep build). Seven years ago we caught the Toyota fever and realized how reliable they are so we have 3 Camry's and a Corolla for DD's and now my youngest kids (16F & 18M) wanted to pick up a 1989 4Runner from my buddy and build it together. This will not be a show build but I want it fully functional, looks nice and fun. 1989, 3.slo, manual, 4x4, 390K miles, runs great!
Here is what we are starting with:

 

Looking forward to seeing the transformation. Are you thinking of going fiberglass on the bed or welding in new steel?

 

Welcome!
If you go fiberglass, slacker is the man
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/members/13431.html
http://www.toyotafiberglass.com/4Runner.htm

 

I've got metal fenders but MAN that fiberglass looks good on the bed!

 

Much appreciated on those links. That fiberglass is expensive but that would be alot easier I think. How do you attach that stuff (glue?)

 

1. Good compression.
2. No blown head gaskets

We are starting with: valve cover gaskets, plenum/TB gaskets, clean injectors/o-rings, all new hoses, water pump kit, timing belt kit, cam/crank seals, thermostat/housing, radiator/hoses/temp sensor, full tune up (plugs/wires/cap/rotor/fuel, air, oil filters, oil change, plug/gasket, PCV/hose), AC fix: new rec/drier, line splice (the battery acid ate through the metal line under the tray), 134a fittings, LED headlights, front end: fenders, bezels/grill, bumper/corners, signals, lower louver. I'm sure there are some other odds & ends I'm forgetting.

 

Wow, dug right into it! You've got quite a list, but looks like you are moving quickly. Keep the pics coming.

 

Ok, guys. I have several different pullers but I can't get one to fit in here. I'm concerned about damaging the oil pump. I tried the "Haynes" method which is: two pry bars on those two nubs on either side of the crankshaft gear. I've also given it the "PB Blaster" treatment 5 times over several days. If I heat it it will trash the seal but I'm ok with that because I'm replacing it - BUT will that damage anything else in there?
RECOMMEDATIONS? Thanks in advance.

 

If it’s pressed on then either heat or I’m assuming there’s a specific puller designed for it.

 

Also, can I engine degrease/pressure wash the engine in this stage with everything plugged?

 

Welcome, congratulations and immediately join the Facebook group for 1st gen4runner classifieds for parts. The kids (and dogs) love soft tops so start looking at those. Major transformation once you remove the hardtop!

 

I wouldn’t hesitate. For underhood panels i used purple power and a paint brush to get the goo off.

 

How’s the interior?
you can do wonders with a Rug Doctor rental and can of SEM vinyl dye.

 

I appreciate the suggestions! I'll get the engine bay clean while I have so much torn off. The interior is in good shape just dirty like you said. I ordered the light covers, floor mats and the heat/ac display plate so I can actually see what I'm doing. I cannot get the crankshaft timing gear off so I ordered a new one with the woodruff key and I'm going to tack weld a few nuts on this one and use a puller to get it off.

 

Work has been busy. I ordered a new: crank timing gear, washer and woodruff key from Toyota. Made sure the parts were correct then got it drilled and tapped. We didn't want to put too much heat to it so my son ground some slots into the gear for the puller. It was not coming loose until the last eighth inch on the crank - even after 2 weeks of PB Blaster every day! Now we can get moving again.

 

Nice job on that gear! Then can be some stubborn!