Thanks for your help...I'll start by admitting that I'm a newbie with limited wrenching experience. Having said that, I have a 1997 4Runner Limited Edition that is in need of some TLC. The rig has 160,000 miles and counting. I'd love to keep her for another 10 years. I have had this vehicle since 2000. I've always kept up with basic maintenance (spark plugs, oil changes, air filter, etc), but it's time for some more serious work. Any advice that you have is appreciated! Here's what I know:

1.) I've got a leaky rear axle seal. How difficult of a task is this? Have any of you been there before? What do you recommend?
2.) The timing belt has never been replaced. If I opt to change the timing belt, should I replace some other parts as well? I was thinking tie rod ends, thermostat, water pump, radiator, things of that nature. Thoughts?
3.) Any advice on repairing or replacing seat belts? The seat belts in the rear do not retract.
4.) The rear power windows are not currently operable. Anybody ever been down this road before?

How much of this could a reasonably intelligent do-it-yourselfer tackle? Anything that I should absolutely seek professional help with? Any good repair guides that I should pick up? Thanks a bunch.

lobokid

 

you may not have a leaky axel seal theres the diff breather on top of the pumpkin and mine got stuck closed and made the seal leak and when i cleaned the breather it didnt leak anymore. i havent had my timing belt water pump or radiator replaced to my knowledge and im about to hit 180000 miles. i did do my thermostat and fan clutch only because they broke though. and you proboblly need new rear seat belts then.

 

It all depends if this is your only vehicle?

If not it can be a real pain if the repairs don`t go as planned. The vehicle sits while awaiting parts.

Nothing real hard but then one persons easy job is impossible for the next.

If you have a place to work give it a try.

 

Thanks for the tips. I'm getting into the mix of things. I did some basic stuff over the weekend including replacing burned out bulbs (tail light, parking light, and upper stop light). I did an oil change and topped off all of the fluids (I learned that I'm to use AT fluid for my power steering...thankfully from a book and not the hard way).

I am recruiting a buddy who owns a 4x4 shop to take a look at the axle seal. That'll be within the next week or two. For now, I'll make sure I keep the differential full. After that, it's shocks and tires. I was thinking of the Hankook DynaPros? No lift or anything for now...I just want to get everything up to par first. Any recommendations for shocks and/or tires? From there, I'll do the timing belt and other parts discussed above. How does this all sound to you veterans?

I SINCERELY appreciate the help.