Deciding to pull the trigger on a locked 98 100 - Need input

[SoCalAdam]

Vehicle looks good with better than average condition interior and exterior from all the ones we've looked at.

I know the 98 was the first year and this one appears to have the rear locker AND the center diff lock but I'm not sure how to be 100% certain.

Going to head over and spend some time under the chassis inspecting the underside looking for the obvious issues like leaking rear main, rust, weeping water pump, cv boot failure, stripped camber/toe/caster adjusters, etc...

Anything specific I should keep an eye out for?

Thanks! This will be our first 100, but not our first Toyota.

 

[Griffin]

the circular knob there is the rear locking differential switch (says "DIFF LOCK"). The center lock sits on the face of the dash, left of the radio.

 

[Griffin]

there it is, just below the hazard.

 

[mcgaskins]

All of them have the center diff lock and many if not most 98s have the rear as well which is easily identified by the dial switch. I personally like the 98-99 100 series for this reason and the 99 has a few more upgrades not available in 98 like rear ac.

 

[Muddy Bean]

we love our 98. very much in fact. we also have the rear diff lock. wish we had rear a/c though...

 

[e9999]

check that the lockers actually work

 

[mgilvan]

98-99 are the best models for 100 series , love my 99 . I say do it

 

[Rot Box]

check that the lockers actually work

^ This. Remember to wait a month and a half for the rear to engage. They take forever....

Another bonus to the 98-99's is the front diff. When they explode you can add another locker lol. 100's are a lot of fun hope it works out for you