i recently purchased a 1997 4runner with 135k and i found out that with speeds above 65 the vehichle has starts wobbling and i figured it probably just needed an alignment and or tire balancing. but i took it in and they said it needs new tie rod bushings and inner and outer tie rods on both sides. the steering seems super tight and does appear to be loose at all so should i just try the alignment and tire balancing and seeing if that will fix the problem first? also the rear axel seals are both busted and there is rear dif fluid all over the brakes. i am not sure how easy it is to do this but i know it needs to be done ASAP becasue my rear brakes barely work at all. and are these standard issues to have with a 4runner i paid 3500 for i am hoping i did not get ripped of becasue of these issues.
thanks!

 

After reading through many of these forums, I don't think people will be willing to answer all of your questions in one thread... Do a search on tie rods and you will find plenty of information on how to double check the shops opinion yourself.

The rotors should be able to be cleaned well enough, probably you will just need new brake pads.

It seems to me that there are no "standard" issues with 4runners. Each issue really just depends on how it is used, how well it is maintained and how well the parts hold up. I too just bought a 4runner and am looking into a new rack and pinion. I paid $5000...ACK! I don't think you got ripped off, but if you are getting into a 14 year old 4runner for $3500 you should expect repairs and parts wearing down....just my 2 cents and lessons learned from my recent purchase.

 

You find a 4Runner with 135,000 miles for 3500? If the truck's in otherwise well-cared for and in decent shape you could still do another $1000-2000 in stuff and still not have gotten ripped. I've been searching for a 3rd 3rd gen and $5,000+ for a lot higher mileage still seems the norm in my neck of the woods.

First off, Disclaimer. I am not a mechanic....this is from my own experience as a 230,000mile 96 4x 4Runner owner-

Rear axle seals. IIRC, something like a wheel, drum (there's 2 holes to run bolts in should they be stuck on) 4 bolts hold the axle on, an e-brake line bracket, a brake line....there isn't much to getting it off. The seal that fits into the housing, not too bad. The stuff on the shaft- should it need replacing- presswork required. Likely you'll need new shoes if this has been going on awhile. Brake clean would be good to have on hand too. How's the diff breather? Clogged? Check that while you're at it.

Get a second opinion on the tie rods if you don't think they feel like they're a problem, or check it for yourself. There are a few things up there that can cause a wobble....you don't mention 2 or 4 wheel drive....