I had this posted in another running thread. Wasn't very active so here it is again.
I currently have a '94 4-Runner sitting in my driveway. I was wanting to buy it, but it a really bad miss at idle. My friend at the dealership let me have it for the weekend to check whatever I want. I found that the #3 cylinder has only 30psi of compression. The others check at about 168psi. The plug on that cylinder is a little dark with no evidence of water or oil on it. The crankcase oil looks good too. Evidently I have a bad or burnt valve. What do you guys think? I can buy it as it sits for $2k, but I'm not sure about the engine problem. This thing looks great and drives even better. Has all the power options and sunroof. I hate to pass it up. What would you do?

I forgot to mention. It is a V6 that has apparently been rebuilt at some point. The odometer has 235k on it.

I plan to squirt a little oil in the cylinder and re-check compression. Just to confirm the problem is in the top end.

 

2k for 200k+ miles seems kindof steep expecially with an engine problem! But if you def, know what is wrong with it and that the engine was rebuilt, go for it. Is it an auto?

 

Yep, it's an automatic.

 

I dont know much about the automatics, but with that many miles you might be having some problems with it in the future? Is it 4wd?

 

It seems solid as a rock other than the engine problem. Shifts nice and smooth. Drivetrain very quiet. It is 4wd. I think this one has every option available in '94. Except leather.

 

Well I would go for it...at least you have another vehicle to drive if anything happens to it, but once you find out the problem with the engine, if it is a burnt valve or something serious i would offer a little less than 2k, if possible, but I would jump on it, runners have a pretty high resale value!

 

I agree with 4runners having high resale value. I have been looking for one with a blown motor, about the sale year you are looking at, I had to give 1300.00 and the motor is stuck, with alittle rust 1992. Yours still runs, it can be fixed...you will do well if you can fix it your self.

 

I wouldn't touch it for $2k. The "retail" cost of replacing that motor will be around $5k... $1500, maybe.. And I'd assume it's going to need major engine work regardless.

 

Didn't do it. I took into account everything I found wrong with it and decided not to go for it. I found one today in excellent condition, '95 with 85k miles. Perfect condition, only problem is the 5 speed.

 

I wouldn't pay 2K for an old 4Runner with a bad engine. Good move there.

A five speed is NOT a problem. It would be a major plus. The 3.0 is underpowered to begin with. Mate it up with an automatic and it is an absolute dog. I know, but I still love mine.