Did the 2nd gen 4runners have any major problems to watch for when buying one? I know the 3.0 isn't liked some due to lack of power but as far as reliablility how is it?

 

HEADGASKET
get the vin and have the stealership run it for recalls as for reliability I have 228,000 on mine and it has never let me down.

M.P.G. suck its underpowered but I would not even hesitate to do a cross counrty trip even with all the miles on it.

If you buy it do the tune up with cap wires and plugs but go with yota wires and plugs

It really is a very reliabile engine just stay on top of it and you should see many miles out of it but if your looking for a racecar this motor is not it.

 

again, with the headgasket, check the oil. choco milk color= run.

same with you harley, i had the hg recall and my 3.0 has never let me down.

 

get the 4 banger 22re if you can... i have had 1 gen1 and 2 gen2 4runners with it and i love them..never had to bebuild or blew one....BULLET PROOF if you take good care

 

check the the cv boots for cracks
Ask about timing belt
make sure the clutch is good
Relay Rod Recall (steering component i think) i forget the recall code. like people said just call the dealer. its a free repair!
check skid plates for signs of abuse
Make sure high beams work, some have a messed up switch

 

So the head gasket issue is a factory problem? The reason I ask is I found 95 localy with the 3.0. Its immaculate except for a small oil leak coming from somewhere in the rear of the engine...owner says it leaks about 1/2 quart between oil changes. If it is the headgasket and the VIN falls under the recall, is this something the factory will fix?

 

Sounds like a valve cover might be leaking. Or its the rear main seal.

 

I have seen beautiful 2nd gens with rust on the inside lower doors.

Check the dipstick for discoloration/stains.

 

Find out if it has ever overheated. If so run. That's with either engine. The 22RE eats head gaskets as well, just its an easy repair on the 4 cyl.

Things to watch for:
Frame rust
Body rust
Clutch
Timing chain noise (22RE)
CV boots
Transmission will stay in all gears (manual)
Idler arm isn't bent (not common unless its been off road)
Back window (that can get expensive if its the motor to blame..do a search)

Check all fluids look right, if not, why?

I'd buy a 22RE 5 speed, with as little rust as possible. No timing chain noise and the driveline feels smooth.

 

I imagine leaking valve cover isn't to big of an issue to fix. But say its the rear main seal or head gasket what kind of price range are you looking at for a repair on something like that?

 

The main thing I found wrong with ones in my area when I was looking was trannys felt like they were getting ready to go. Timing belt should have been replaced by now, headgasket campain done, cv boots. Other than that normal ware and tear stuff. Mine doesn't get the best mileage, but she fires right up every time.

 

X2 on the rear window. Also make sure the windshield washer works.

 

X3 on checking that back window.

 

Yeah on the 4runner I am looking at I checked all of the power windows and locks, they all work well. Cycled through the 4wd, checked the CV's and tranny, it idles well and drives great.
The only issue I am concerned about is the oil leak. I have a decent bit of mechanical knowledge, but when it come to seals and what not I'm not very familar. Are there any "easy" ways to get an idea of whats causing the leak (HG, rear seal ect) without tearing apart the motor?
By the way, thanks for all the help so far.

 

1/2 qt every 3000 miles isnt that bad.. mine ate about 1/2-3/4 qt evey 1500 miles.

 

yeah if its a 95 im almost positive it had the headgasket recall. that leak sounds like nothing.

now get us some pictures already!!!! geez!

 

To get more specific answer to your questions in regards to time and money, you should search for "headgasket replacement", "rear main seal" and related terms.

Rear main seal requires the dropping of the tranny.

Valve cover leak requires removal of the intake, then valve cover.

A HG replacement is doable by most home mechanics, but generally it's a good idea to get the heads done by a professional automotive machine shop while it's all apart. You basically have to take apart the top half of the motor. This is assuming the bad HG has not damaged the motor in anyway.

That said, nothing you have described so far sounds like a HG issue.

 

Thanks that what I needed to know. I'm going to go back and look at it again this weekend, and make a decision on getting it or not. If I get it I'll be sure to post some pics.

 

Imagine that, I was going to ask a question about a 4runner and the answer was right here in front of me. I love this website. I just found a 1993 4WD 4Runner SR5 3.0 V6 Autolocking hubs. Straight body, good interior. I've only talked on the phone with the owner but I have seen the exterior through a chained link fence. Owner says Needs motor due to cracked block. Asking $850.00 as it sits. Figured I would at least ask it they would take $750-$800. My question is WOULD YOU DO IT? Thanks ahead of time.

 

i just a recall in the mail last week on a "steering relay rod" for1990 - 1995 model 4runners........says recall number - SSC# 50N