Guys, I saw an add in the local newspaper for an 1985 4x4 Runner. The Guy says it runs good. No other info was listed. Does this have a Solid axle like the Pickups?

The Guy wants $1,300, but I might offer him $1,000 or $1,100.

Good deal?

 

Yea.. it does have the solid axle.. and if it runs ok, then I think it's a good deal even if every panel's dented to hell.

 

Yup, solid axle with the fuel injected engine IIRC. Very desirable combination.

 

Even with some minor rust and dents, as long as it runs decent and it's mechanically sound, it's worth an EASY $2500-$3000.

 

make sure you know what 'runs good' means. it always goes like this. 'no cracks, runs great, no rust, little damage', so you call them up or go look at it...it never looks like you thought it would. Those no rust spots or little damage are always bigger than expected. Make sure it really does 'run great'

 

Don't wanna sound too pessimistic, but be careful and check EVERYTHING, including title and history....
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f5/thing-thing-has-go-long-rant-41782/

That was my experience. Granted, he wants more for it so it may be in better mechanical condition, but be certain you're either sure that everything works or you're prepared to invest alot of time and more money in it.
For example, the guy I bought it from said that the engine was rebuilt 500 miles ago, and he had receipts to "prove" it. Took it to my mechanic and he told me that the thing doesn't look like it was touched in years. Next thing I know I've got oil in my coolant.

Double check everything. Trust me :pat:

 

All good advice.
Make sure the drivetrain all works and that it really does run fine, unless you just want to put money into it... Look closely at the frame - rusted out body is bad enough, rusted out frame is a no-go at any price in my book. But if it has a good frame and runs, and trans, case and axles are good, and not much (preferably None) rust, you probably can't get hurt for 1000.

Depends on where you live as to what it's worth - you won't get 2500-3000 around here for a beater, they're common and rust free. Locally 3 to 4 grand will get you a low miles creampuff or an already trail-ready rig - although they are starting to go up in price just lately.
1985 4Runners still also offerred a carbed model (the Standard)

 

I paid $1100.00 for my 85. But I knew I would have to replace the engine. The guy was asking $2800.00 for it. I was about the 10th person to look at it. I took it for a test drive, it barely made it back. But it has the solid front axel and I could build it up to exactly what I wanted.
But like Ryan said, double check everything.

 

I've seen som not so decent 85's go for well over $4k in Cali. The newspaper is full of them and eveybody writes "full width axle". Buy it, sell it in Cali, then buy a better one for less in OR!