Hi Folks,

I know this is a long shot but this truck meant a lot to me so I figure it's worth a try, in any case hopefully this will serve as another warning to to everyone to take measures to protect your rigs...

My 1985 Toyota 4runner was stolen this past Friday night (May 19, 2006) sometime between midnight and 9:00 am Saturday morning. It was taken from a residential street in Santa Clara, California

The vehicle has been reported to the Police / DMV / CHP as stolen. If anyone happens to run across the car, please contact the Santa Clara Police Department at 408-615-5580, or ANY appropriate law enforcement agency. I can also be reached at this address.

A description of the vehicle and pictures are provided below. This car has a lot of sentimental value so any info is greatly appreciated.

Description:

1985 Toyota 4runner
White (recently repainted) with a black shell
Tan interior
California firefighter license plates, # KAD838
VIN # JT4RN61D7F06619

 

Any updates?

 

Update:

The San Jose Police found my truck last week. All things considered it was in pretty good shape... The only obvious damage was that the wiper lever on the steering column was broken off. All my gear with the exception of my fire helemt was still in the truck.

Just an FYI for all other yota owners out there; in my dealings with the police and insurance company over this theft, everyone I talked to told me the early Toyotas are very easy to steal. Apparently all someone needs is a "shaved key" to enter and start your car.

Since I've gotten my truck back I've taken to pulling the distributor lead off the coil at night - not fool proof but I figure it will slow someone down enough that they might move on.

My next project is to purchase "the club" and install a hidden kill switch...

 

Frequently that "shaved key" is just another old Toyota key. Good to hear that you got it back!