Q for the Toyota Guys V3.0

[JL Rockies]

We took in a 1997 4Runner with 195k miles on the ODO for $1800. All power options work and there's a decal in the engine comp that indicates the timing belt was done in 2004. Interior is dirty but all in one piece and the AC blows cold. Seems to run strong on the hwy. Body seems perfect and all badging has been gold plated. After it goes through the shop, my est cost to own is $2400 - $2800.

Sound like a buy or pass?

Thanks.

 

[sixstringsteve]

I guess it depends on whether or not you're going to keep it to drive, or if you're trying to flip it for more money. My advice is assuming you're going to keep it for yourself or for a family member.

That's the 3.4 engine, which is one of the best engines toyota made. I wouldn't let the mileage scare you, if everything else checks out.

 

[JL Rockies]

It would be for me to keep and travel in different social circles.

 

[sixstringsteve]

Body seems perfect and all badging has been gold plated.

Somehow I missed this! If it has gold plated badging, how can you even think about passing it up?

Is it leather or cloth interior? Does it have the elocker in the rear?

 

[JL Rockies]

Cloth interior. I see no indication of a locker but the ECT button makes a little green light come on.... Must be some kind of performance vodoo.

 

[Greg]

That's a pretty good deal, solid vehicle, very capable and that Toyota IFS rocks in bumpy/high-speed desert travel. The 3.4 is a good engine, really nothing wrong with any of the drivetrain.

If you're really concerned with the lack of a locker, I'd imagine an ARB could be added easy enough, it' just $$$! Or swap in a axle, wiring and button from a 4Runner that had the factory e-locker.

 

[JL Rockies]

I am not concerned, lockers are for gym class. I am going to run a car fax and see if there are any skeletons.

Have there been issues with head gaskets on these motors?

 

[Greg]

I am not concerned, lockers are for gym class. I am going to run a car fax and see if there are any skeletons.

Have there been issues with head gaskets on these motors?

No HG issues that I'm aware of, and we've owned 2 vehicle with the 3.4 engine, my Tacoma and my wife's 4Runner. We had no drivetrain problems at all.

 

[sixstringsteve]

I haven't heard of an issue with anything on these motors. Replace the water pump and timing belt every 90k and who knows when it'll die. I was hoping for 400k out of my last one before I sold it. I was only halfway there.

 

[JL Rockies]

CarFax shows no problems, it was origianlly a VA vehicle and moved to CA in 2001 then to UT in 2002. There have been 7 owners of this vehicle.

 

[JL Rockies]

I haven't heard of an issue with anything on these motors. Replace the water pump and timing belt every 90k and who knows when it'll die. I was hoping for 400k out of my last one before I sold it. I was only halfway there.

If this is true than it's probably overdue for another timing belt.... damnit.... I just spent $1K on a timing belt last month for the KJ.

 

[sixstringsteve]

yeah, that sucks, but it's cheap insurance for a very strong motor. But that does add to the total price. If you're mechanically inclined you can do it on a weekend for about $200 in parts. I'd replace the idler pulley bearing too ($4), they get squeaky.

 

[JL Rockies]

I am taking it home this weekend. Doing the paperwork now.

 

[Fuller]

man for that price i would have jumped on it as well.
good find.
now lets see some pics

 

[JL Rockies]

It's too nighttimey right now...

 

[JL Rockies]

 

[cruiseroutfit]

Well done, ditch the gold and lets get some part on there for you

You have finally achieved sexy.

 

[Fuller]

very nice find, that was a smoking deal.

 

[sixstringsteve]

You have finally achieved sexy.

x2

 

[JL Rockies]

I priced out all the parts associated with timing belt (wholesale) and labor $45 x AllData rate. Parts are about $279 and labor is $150.

Same scenario last month with the CRD, parts were $756 and labor $300.

Winning.