I'm considering buying a "totaled" (rolled over) 97' 4 runner 3.4 Litre with 97K miles with everything but its body....as nearly all body panels have been removed all other parts are in tact. My 99' 4-runner has 150K and I want to stock up/stock pile on some replacement parts for my rig as I plan on keeping it for another 3 years or so (as it is paid off...hehe)
This truck will have all the main components the Engine, trans, diferentials, drive shafts, Frame ect...

the guy (over the phone) wants $1500.00 for everything and I likely offer him 900.00 to 1100.00 for everything (depending on condition)

FYI I havent inspected the vehicle yet...

QUESTION:
DOES ANYBODY HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR ME on what to offer him or things to look for when I look at this vehicle?
thanks,
mark

 

If I was looking for a donor truck for a 3.4 swap it certainly would be worth 1000-1500 for the complete 4Runner since it is always easier to have all the components in one place...Sounds like a good deal to me.
That being said some drivetrain components can be damaged in a rollover so I would suggest a thorough inspection prior to purchase...Pictures always help too..

 

I'd say even $1500 is a pretty good deal if everything is there and working.
Anything below that is definately sweetening the deal.

 

dont lowball the guy. $1500 is a great deal.

As long as it has a title, snatch it up. Even if you dont end up using any parts, you can part it out and make your money back no problem.

 

Hey,
I've heard that before about the title.... yet, just out of curioursity, why is the title important again for apart out vehicle?
Also, The guy has held it for 9 months so I think is is ready to unload this truck, If I like what I see I'll start a 1000.00 and work up from there.

 

When you go to get rid of the vehicle, a scrap yard will require a title. Otherwise, they wont take the hulk.

 

Great Info Thanks and "that" is definatly something to consider...
Thanks


Also, about the "low ball" techniquie.... don't you think that It fair to assume that the engine is "trashed" as the vehicle may have continuted to run while flipped over on its top or side (lack of oil causing engine damage)
"THis guy says the engine turns over"..... whatever that means, honestly the engine may have been screwed up with only 30 seconds to 1 minute of a lack of proper lubercation..... that is if it wasent shut off in time


I don't know I think its safe to assume that the engine MAY be trashed...?

 

I have been working at a Toyota wrecking yard for over 6 years, dealing will lots of rollovers. I can honestly say I have only encountered one engine that was ever damaged by a rollover. They almost always immeaditly shut off.

In fact I parted out a 99 4Runner recently that was rolled over, and kept the engine for a 3.4L swap. Ran great, and I drove it hope from where I bought it (25 miles away)

I would say its safe the say the engine is in GOOD shape, rather than hurt.

 

The title is proof the truck (or it's parts) aren't stolen.