toyota 4runner. . . . . .

[charlie_the_tuna]

ok, let's hear what you guys know about , say, the 1997 to 2003 4runner. any first hand experience?? c'mon, let's hear it.

[bradford]

The third generation models (1996-2002)are preferred amongst a lot of hardcore 4runner folks. Truck frame, more hp than the 2nd gen by a long shot, Cool styling, tons of factory and aftermarket parts available. The 3.4 V6 with the 5 speed is the preferred amongst most of the wheeler crowd. I've had 5 different toyotas that I can remember. Currently own a 2nd generation. Check out this site, it's a cult like we are about our V20s: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/

[cfelton]

4Runners are great trucks! We have a 92 4x4 with the 3.0 and a 2002 with the 3.4. Definately like the 3.4 alot better. They've both been great trucks. The 92 4x4 rides alot better than the 02 2wd. We've got 8 Toyotas in the family. Ive got a 72 FJ40 and a 97 Tacoma 4x4 with 309000 miles and it still runs strong!

[phatdaddy]

is this to replace the yukon you just got?

[RWilson2526]

Originally Posted by phatdaddy

is this to replace the yukon you just got?

First thing that came to my mind.....what happened to the Yukon?

[spareparts]

Originally Posted by RWilson2526

First thing that came to my mind.....what happened to the Yukon?

it wasn't green!

[Pipe_Dream]

Originally Posted by bradford

The third generation models (1996-2002)are preferred amongst a lot of hardcore 4runner folks. Truck frame, more hp than the 2nd gen by a long shot, Cool styling, tons of factory and aftermarket parts available. The 3.4 V6 with the 5 speed is the preferred amongst most of the wheeler crowd. I've had 5 different toyotas that I can remember. Currently own a 2nd generation. Check out this site, it's a cult like we are about our V20s: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/

Fellow 2nd gen owner here. My '95 has 215,000 miles on it. The 3rd gens are better, I agree. Some day I'll buy a 4th or 5th gen to replace mine. This is my go-to site: http://www.yotatech.com/f60/

[bradford]

Originally Posted by Pipe_Dream

Fellow 2nd gen owner here. My '95 has 215,000 miles on it. The 3rd gens are better, I agree. Some day I'll buy a 4th or 5th gen to replace mine. This is my go-to site: http://www.yotatech.com/f60/

I forgot about yotatech, also a great site. My 94 has 225,000. My next one will be a 1st gen with a 22r and a 5 speed or a 80's model FJ 60 Landcruiser.

Willy is right, check for rust, especially living up north. Also be sure the timing belt has been changed according to schedule. If you change it or have it changed do the water pump at the same time.

I knew a guy when I lived in Florida that would buy just about any toyota SUV or truck in almost any reasonable condition, any miles, as long as it ran good and ship them to his brother in the Dominican Republic and a friend in South America. He said he knew of trucks he shipped with 300,000 on the ticker that now had 500-600 thousand.