95 questions

I am going to be looking at a 95 with low miles this weekend. If I purchase it I want it to be a restoration project but also a daily driver. This would be my first 4runner. I know rust around the wheel wells and frames is an issue to look for. Mechanically I assume they are great but can anyone tell me if there are any weak spots I should look out for? It is the v6 automatic trans. Are these prone to leak in the rear? How about transmissions? Any known issues with transmissions? Anything else I should look for when I go check it out? Thanks in advance for any help.

 

Welcome from Arizona!
Standby for information.

 

Malke sure it has been maintained diligently. Make sure head gasket has been replaced. There was a TSB type recall out in the late 90's to replace it for free. Check for oil leaks around the valve covers. Make sure timing belt has been replaced within the last 60k miles. Thoroughly check for rust and if you can, get a mechanic to check it out.

 

It has been said before valve cover and head gaskets it’s not if it’s when. Hopefully you’re in an area where rust isn’t a problem. If you are. Well start shopping for a new frame. Can’t help on trans except maintain it diligently. Mine is a manual so I use GL4 not GL5. Umm you could try to see what the local stealership uses for the ATF fluid and find the actual maker and buy it cheaper. Denso and Aisin make a lot of their OEM parts so don’t buy from the dealership if you can help it. Hell I had to 3D print the clips to put my front grille back in

 

I am rebuilding one now. I am doing a head gasket. If you are willing to get your hands dirty new exhaust headers are a great an idea. I found some for less than two hundred bucks and they seem great. Those 3vzes aren’t known for great power but the headers might add a few horse puppies.