Hello everyone-

I recently sold my 93 4runner and am looking into buying a 3rd gen 4runner. Today I went and looked at a 99 SR5 4x4 with 180,000 miles 3.4 V6. The first thing I noticed was a ticking sound coming from right about where the transmission oil pan was. At first I was thinking it was heat shields or something around there vibrating but after messing around with it believe it was coming from inside the pan. Maybe the oil pump? The clicking sound would go away for a couple of seconds and then come back.

The body and interior were in overall good condition. I really don't trust the owner of the car so i'm probably going to pass. With your experiences would you buy a 3rd gen with this many miles. I guess if the engine was maintained well it should have some life left in it. I'm more scared of having transmission problems. I guess any advice would be appreciated. Also, any advice on what to look for on these 4runners.

Oh yeah the owner is willing to take 4800.

Thanks,

Nick

 

Is it nice other than that? Trany is not to big a deal. If their is somthin wrong with it, fix it, and your good for another 300,000 miles. These things are a reliable investment you know. Price doesn't sound bad considering the description.

 

Of coarse id try $4500

 

Thanks for the advice!

 

Could be a flexplate. I just bought a '96 with 160k on the clock and mine was cracked.

Cheap fix if you do it yourself, about $900 if a shop does it.

 

it all depends, have a shop do a thorough inspection before you pick it up.

 

whaatt?

WHAAT?

 

it is the thing that the starter gear meshes with
and is bolted to the flywheel. it has teeths.

it is a big old disc

 

starter ring gear. Just wondering how it could be clicking after its running and the starter is disengaged.

 

I agree with the flexplate diagnosis. Mine was cracked after 75k miles, and I am now replacing it again.

Sounds like rod knock (tapping sound) at idle, or when not under load. It will progressivly get worse over time, and may not be noticeable when the engine is cold.

Good luck with you purchase.