I'm looking to buy a 86 4runner on CL...I have a 00 Tundra now that I do light off roading in (its 2wd), so I'm not too familiar with 4runners. He has the following on the truck:

22re,5 speed manual, dual timing chain, new cam, and header, new clutch and fuel pump.

6.5 inch allpro suspension, straight axle conversion, cross over steering kit, ARB 529 third member in the rear and open in the front, 35 in. Goodyear MTRs.

Are there any questions/concerns you guys recommend I ask him? I just started looking into buying a 4Runner 4WD instead of just adding a locker on my Tundra.

Thanks!

 

Sounds good, you'll have more fun in the 4runner than a 2wd with a locker, I'd get it, they did the most of the work for ya, get it if you want and add ARB selectible lockers front and rear and you'll be all set!!!!

 

Just look at it all over!!

How was the work done?? Is it neat and professional or a hack job??

Take it for a ride make sure it shifts and drives smooth.

Did they have records of who did the work or was it done by the owner.

Do you know what you are looking at or just taking there word.

 

Wyoming's advice is good.
Inspect everything upfront
Check front spring hanger for cracks, same thing for the frame around the shock mounts and steering box
Drive it up to free way speeds carefully. sA converted trucks can experience death wobble. If it has it and the guy says the wheels need balancing, take that with a grain of salt..yes it could be the cause but it could also be bad bearings, TRE, bushings etc.
Jack the truck up and shake the front wheels...

 

Thanks for the advice. Unfortunately the truck was not what I was looking for, it was more of a project truck and wasn't running yet. However, I did find a 1990 4runner for $2500 with the following:

Super lift 4" lift
32" BF Goodrich Muds
Airbag suspension
It's the 3L v6. He stated the transmission may need replacing soon. I took it for a test drive last night, and was surprised at how slow the acceleration was. Is this common for the 90 4runners? I assume its also due to bigger tires, he has stock gears still in it. Wasn't sure if this thing would have enough power to get up hills, but I've read that the 4low usually gets the job done. Transmission seemed ok to me, shifting out from park, drive, and rear, I didn't hear too much or feel too much. No rust on the underside or body. I did experience a light wobble from the steering wheel at higher speeds or when braking, is this due to the tires? My main concern was the slowness of the truck, and wanted to make sure this is normal especially with the size of the tires + stock gears.

Here are some pics if you guys are interested:

http://images.craigslist.org/5O65T15...189146194c.jpg
http://images.craigslist.org/5T65P25...aa5b5f1ab9.jpg

 

called a 3.slow for a reason. buy one with a 5vz 3.4