Burrisd,

The 3.0L v-6 has had head gasket issue's. But if it has been fixed by toyota it will be a good vehicle. It has a heat issue with the crossover pipe that goes across the back of the engine. But Toyota has a fix. If it has been done it will last. It can be fixed outside of Toyota but to do it right the engine needs to be pulled to do the proper repair. The heads and block need to be resurfaced to a near zero flat, and a new type gasket that helps with the different rate of expansion between the Aluminum Head and the cast Block. Just do your homework/research and you can find a good one that will make you a beleiver.
The 22re 4 cylinder is a good motor but is a little under powered for the 4 runner. It is bullet proof though, and very reliable.

 

Jetwhine,

Thanks a lot for your input. I appreciate it!

 

In addition to the V6 head gasket problem, the steering relay rod was an issue on the early 90's Toyota trucks and 4Runners. "Butt sag" is also common on the 4Runners. And depending on your location, frame rust can be a major problem.

 

Pardon my lack of knowledge, but what is "butt sag"? Also while I'm at it, about what can a v6 tow? what it is rated to tow?

Thanks again!

 

"Butt sag" related to vehicles is the back of the vehicle is lower than the front, like the vehicle is heavily loaded.

 

burrisd,

I believe it is rated to 3500 lbs. But I don't think it is a good towing rig especially with the V-6. That is one engine I would not want to push unless it has had all the work done to it including headers to reduce as much heat as possible. It might not be in your budget but the 4.7L V-8 is a great motor for towing but it did not get put into the 4runner until 2003. I'm not trying to discourage you but, I don't tow with my 3.0L. I'm sure there are people out there that do but not me. Remember this is just one opinion. Hope this helps.

 

The sag in the rear end is common with all 90-95 trucks/4Rs and the first gens too. The springs were too soft from the factory so they weaken quick. There's a couple replacements out there (OEM wise, Moog for example) that return the height to stock. I'll probably be grabbing a set of Moogs and doing that job sometime in the spring.