I'm doing my homework as I get ready to find and buy a first gen 4runner. From some of the "history of 4runner" websites, I have gathered that 2 styles were initially available - one with the back seats, and one with a full truck-bed back.

So far, I think I have found that the truck-bed style can be easily converted to the back seat style, by removing a steel plate that covers the seat depression and bolt holes. Is this true? In the usual early toyota fashion, are all the bolt holes for the seat and seat belts already in place?

Also, is the tailgate for the truck-style all steel, or does it have a plastic cover like the back-seat style 4runners? I'm just trying to figure out how easy it will be for me to convert the truck to the configuration that I want - I'd rather have a regular steel truck bed and tailgate with the option to put back seats in. Thanks in advance-

 

I'm pretty sure the tailgate is the same on both trucks, and the bed had vinyl carpeting and the regular plastic bedside panels.

Yes, bolt holes are there to bolt in a seat.

 

I have an 85 4Runner and from what I understand from the parts guy at my local shop the rear seats on the 84/85, not for certain on the 86-89, were not a factory option, but a dealer installed one like fender flares, fancy floor mats, etc.

I am pretty sure they came w/ either a split rear seat or a solid bench and that the mounting points are probably the same. Never heard of any difference on the tailgates.