3rd Gen 4runner

[95Trooper]

I’m looking at buying this 2000 Toyota 4runner 4x4. Has 252k miles on it. It has a factory E-locker. I’m judging by that and the hood scoop it is a sport model. I have only owned one other 3rd gen and it was a standard 4 cylinder 4x4 model but I’ve always wanted one with the 3.4 ever since then. I plan on daily driving this every other day in rotation with my Camry. I’m set to look at it this Saturday. Anything specific I should look for? Frame rot? Guy claims the frame is very clean and rust free but says there is a dime sized rust hole in the passenger side rocker panel towards the front fender. I’m going to check the trans fluid and coolant as well for suspected strawberry milkshake issue. He is unsure of when the timing belt/water pump was last replaced so that is at the top of the list of things to do if I buy it. Thanks!

 

[Junkyard Dog]

Looks like someone has been crawling around underneath it with a can of spray paint to me. That would scare me away instantly.

 

[TheZenTree]

Look for rust around the rear lower control arm mounts. New OEM lower ball joints if you buy it, and consider a new radiator too.

 

[88yota]

add a new radiator to the to-do list along with oem lower ball joints. it looks like it will have some minor rust on the frame. the 2 give aways I see are the snow in the picture (northern vehicle), and the engine bay bolts and brackets have rust on them. from my experience if the engine bay shows rust the frame will have some rust on it. The 3.4 is a very reliable engine if you keep up with the maintenance. Check for a leaking steering rack and leaking valve cover. great color by the way.