I just recently bought a 98 4Runner with the 3.4 2w. It has 228,000 miles I only paid $2,000 from a local dealership who got it on trade in from elderly gentleman who only drove it to haul his johnboat for duck hunting.(I posted a picture below) I just did an oil change and the oil pan gasket. But I was wondering what are some decent mechanical upgrades I could to do it for better performance and longevity? Are there any common issues I should watch out for? Are there simple fixes for these issues or ways to catch them before they happen or worsen? I want to take really good care of the vehicle since I got it for a steal and it’s higher mileage. I don’t do much off-roading since it’s 2wd but I’m looking to go camping a lot since it’s a bigger vehicle.
Thank You!!

 

Check/replace your lower balljoints and use OEM toyota replacements. They are one of the few known issues with these trucks. If one snaps, it can and probably will cause lots of damage.

 

Valve cover gaskets and rear cam plugs often leak at this age, Rear diff breather plugs up causing axle seal leaks, timing belt should be checked for cracks or service interval, change the rear diff oil every 30-50,000, and radiator ATF cooler likes to swap the ATF for Rad fluid taking out the transmission.