New member looking to pick up 97 LC

[chadi]

Hey everybody. I'm new to the forum and looking for help. I'm in the process of buying a second vehicle and looking at a mid 90's cruiser. I know Toyotas are reliable and the cruiser is durable but I would end up picking one up with over 100K miles. Can someone describe the longevity of the vehicle regarding drivetrain and engine? Also I found a 97 with full lockers, 105k miles for $13995 at a dealer. Engine drove well and all the lockers worked. Ride was generally good except for some break noise up front. I want a durable reliable vehicle for the dirt as well as a second commuter. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Chadi

 

[acf]

Well I just bought a '97 in excellent shape without lockers, all service done, for $14k so I'd say that's a good price for that one. From what I've learned here and other places, you won't find a better truck as far as engine and suspension reliabilty and durability. Keep in mind that the 95-97 years have some known cooling system problems and more than a little concerning is the number of blown head gaskets. Hopefuly the one you're looking at has a documented maintenance/repair history. Good luck.

 

[Safado]

Buy Junks!!!

 

[e9999]

welcome!
good choice.
Read the many posts on inspection of prospective vehicles...
good luck
E

 

[landtank]

I'm driving down to Bristol on Monday and staying over 1 night. If it's something you'd like looked at and I'm near by we can get together.

 

[chadi]

Rick,

Thanks for the offer! Actually the truck is in Bristol at a place called Stephen's Auto Mall. They are supposed to send it through a safety inspection on monday (hopefully). A friends friend works in the toyota service department so he's supposed to take a look at it when it gets in. If I get good news during the day I'll go down after work about 4:00. The truck is in good shape structurally and ran strong. Sounded like it needed brake work (there was a moderate grinding noice during driving - I'm hoping the mechanic will let me know what it is) but other than no other funny noises. Probably won't go above 12K on my offer.

Thanks

Chadi