The removeable-top 4R's were built from '84-'88, and by that I mean the production year, NOT the model year. The V6 was available in 1988, buit was the worst version due to the fact that the oil supply tube that ran through the water jacket would corrode and rupture, pumping all the oil into the water jacket. When the engine was shut off, the oil AND a/f would then run into the crankcase, and...anyway, there we are. Just my advice, but avoid the early V6.
The most desirable years are the '84-'85, as they had a solid front axle. '86+ are IFS.
-84's had the carbed 22R
-85's up to '87 were 22RE, with manual or auto trans.
-Rearend ratios read me ->
http://www.brian894x4.com/Gearratiosanddiffs.html
-auto tranny equipped 4R's came with 4.10's, 4.30, and 4.88 ratios, maybe more.
-rear is 8", front is 7.5", this is for the ifs version.
-the sfa 4r's had 8" front and rear.
-t-cases are all really solid.
-I would personally pick one with a W56 tranny in it.
-There are some 22RTE's, that is the EFI turbo model, which will most likely have the auto tranny. The BEST 4X4 toyota transmission is the R154F, which is the 5spd used behind the 22RTE's in the pickups.
-truck parts will fit, from the doors forward.
-the 4runner is built on a shortbox truck chassis.
-check the rear gate. Make sure there is no rust in it or you will have nothing but trouble.
-rocker panels and the rear wheel arches are also rust-prone.
I have owned and wheeled 2 4Runners, both 1988's.
