First 1st Gen 4runner

I'm looking to buy my first 1st gen 4runner. The only I'm looking at is a 1987 SR5 Auto trans with a 3.5" body lift and 126k original miles listed for $10k firm...

Trying to get some guidance on things to look and listen for when checking it out and if it seems like a good deal. It would be my daily so it's would like to get something ready to hit the road and from the pics and vids I've been sent so far seems like it's in pretty good shape. Any advice would be much appreciated - TIA!

 

Offer 7k. It’s an auto....

check rust. Specially at the rear spring hangers that are in front of the rear tires.

 

Also check under those flares for rust. It’s common for people to try to hide the rust that accumulates at the fender edge with that type of flare. However, that 4Runner looks wonderfully clean at a quick glance from those few pictures.

 

Thank for that advice that good info... Unfortunately the seller won't take less than $10k despite being an auto. But if it's really as clean as it looks then I'm on with it honestly.

Are the timing chains on these similar to belts on Tacoma's? Usually need service around 175k miles?

 

In a way yes. The timing chain in the 22r/re series engines can wear out the plastic chain guides. When this happens the slack can breach the cooling and oil systems. Checking the oil and coolant are always good things to do at a test drive.

the auto is not a deal breaker, it just makes it a sluggish dog vs a manual. The fun factor will remain but don’t don’t expect speed of any kind.

 

Understood. Speed isn't a big concern (dive a gutless 4 cylinder subaru forester now) just looking for something fun to drive that's off-road capable when I need it. I really appreciate the insight - that's good to know about the timing chain. Thanks again for the info!

 

Well for those interested, I bought it! Loving it so far. Slow to accelerate as expected but it's a blast to drive!

Has a 3.5" body lift on 33's... Think I'll eventually take that off and swap it for a 3-3.5" suspension lift eventually. First thing I'll do is probably get the underside sand blasted and coated - anyone have any suggestions for that? Where to go, what kind of costing to use etc? Pretty new to scene and trying to learn. TIA!

 

Well if anyone happens to be following this, trying to make some changes soon and need some help.

Right now there's a 3 or 3.5" body lift with 33x12.5x15" tires - wheels are 15x8 with 5.25" backspacing... Wanting to get rid of the BL and get a suspension lift but am trying to stay away from BJ spacers and 4"+ bracket lifts.

Found a 2" full lift kit from OME (all 4 struts, leaf packs, T bars, bushings, etc) but I'm not sure if that and 5.25" backspacing on the wheels will give me a enough clearance for the the tires to not rub and still allow for some flex in suspension. Anyone have any suggestions?

Not finding any 3" suspension lifts out there that don't include BL's, BJ spacers, or diff drops. Any and all help is much appreciated!

 

I'm no technical help, but congrats on the new ride! It looks good in pics. My first 4R was a 1988 that I bought new. Would buy a good used one if I could, I liked it that much. Enjoy!

 

Thanks man! Loving it so far. Can only imagine how much fun these things were brand new!

 

Rough Country has a complete lift for a '87 4Runner, 4"- 5", it's on their web-site. Not sure about backspacing you'll need or want.

 

Yeah I've seen that... It's a bracket lift which I'm trying to avoid... But don't think I have many other options. Might end up going with that if I have do a bracket lift. Seems like a good value

 

Blazeland long travel.