chrisorbics

I always wanted a 1996 or newer 4runner and I never find a good deal on one. I got this less than perfect 1997 4runner limited with 126,000 miles for $2500. I do not think it has ever had the timing belt replaced so that is first on the list. The front drivers corner has taken a beating. The bumper and or grille is off. The radio antena stays up and the front seats and ripped up so there are seat covers on them. I am not sure if I should get stock replacements from the junk yard when I see them or get some suspension seats. I guess it depends on the price for each.

After I washed under the hood and started it up I could smell some coolant burning off. I am hoping this is the water pump leaking or something else that can be fixed easily. I do not want to do head gaskets. I will get under the truck tomorrow if it is not raining.

So the first thing to be done is the timing belt or atleast pull the cover to see what it looks like. The guy I got it from bought it with 57,000 miles and declined having it done at 116,000 at the dealer. Now it is at 126,000 so most likely over due. I am looking for a good deal on ebay. It looks like $300 will get me a complete kit. Any sugestions would be great.

The things I would like to do are:
-Replace seat possibly custom. What kind shoud I get?
-Replace front and rear bumper with ones from tactical armor group. http://tacticalarmorgroup.com/TAGSto...8/Default.aspx
-Fix radio antena
-Install an aftermarket radio
-Get some good floor mats like weather tech
-Take of the side steps
-Paint stock wheels. I have some 31x10.5x15 on nasty rims
-Get a lift going but economically. I have seen something about fj80 rear springs. Hopefully I can peice together a smooth riding cheap lift.
-Raise transmission and transfer case vent lines
-Snorkle
-More lights
-Open to ideas

chrisorbics

Also optima battery. Do I need anything special to mount it or will the stock mount work? Are there any other battery brands that I should consider?

chrisorbics

chrisorbics

Alittle degreaser goes a long way.

chrisorbics

Comments

2big4arunner

I think it looks pretty nice for the money. I dont know what those trucks cost where you are but they are still expensive around here.

Is it a 5 speed or auto?

I am pretty sure it has electronic locker in the rear, there is a 2wd bypass for it that makes it nice to get around when it gets a little slippery out.

Synthetic fluids and lucas oil additive in all the oil spots does wonders for the truck.. just remember that you dont use anything more then gl-4 in the transmission.

chrisorbics

They are usually atleast $5000. It is an automatic. I think all the limiteds are. The locker was an option but from what I hear is was very rare. I do not think mine has it it because the switch for it would be on the left side of the steering wheel. I did see a tacoma trd offroad awhile ago in the junk yard with the locker. It was smashed bad but the differential might be ok. I have to check if they still have it.

I have to change all the fluids so I will try to get some good quality stuff.

First thing I need to do is the timing belt. There are so many different package deals out there that it is hard to choose.

2big4arunner

BECK/ARNLEY Part # 0291016

I found this on rockauto for 62 bucks. beck arnley gets all their parts from the same place and under the same specs as toyota would buy. they do this for all vehicles and specialize in imports.

Great example is the thermostat

beck was the only other company to offer the check valve thats needed to make sure the engines dont airlock in the waterpump.

talking about the water pump

AISIN Part # WPT100 is found on rock auto as well.

chrisorbics

Is it worth it to spend around $300 to get a kit with everything. I am looking at this one.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/AISIN-Water-...e6758b&vxp=mtr

2big4arunner

That kit looks pretty good. Just make sure they are not gonna hide their profit in the shipping charges

chrisorbics

Free shipping.