Newbie- 97 4Runner w/170k

[BQuad]

Hey just saying hi, I've been browsing around looking for an FJ40, but I love my stock '97 4Runner. I've done hardly anything beside maintenance, brakes, replaced the alternator and battery. The electric antenna cut out but haven't bothered to replace it yet.

It's got over 170k so I'm getting ready to do the timing belt and water pump, check the brakes, steering rack bushings and axle seals. Can you think of anything else I should look at to keep it running strong?

I know everyone likes pics, the only one I have is with my friends boat behind it.

Thanks

 

[Mars]

Never a bad idea to check the condition of all your belts and hoses while you are in there. Giving some of the electrical a once over...checking rust around battery cables for example wouldn't hurt.

Which motor?

 

[Ron Helmuth]

Welcome and T4R.org is another forum many of us 3rd gen owners are on.

Good looking rig -mine is a (99) white Sr5 also. I will be changing my antenna to a Tacoma fixed mast and if you are interested in my antenna motor just stay in touch.

You have not done the deckplate mod yet? Improved throttle response and maybe 7 more horsepower or so. It scared me to cut my airbox, but it is probably the most frequently done mod on the 3rd gens.

Nice boat also of your friend's.

 

[BQuad]

Thanks for the tips.

It's got the V6 motor. Thanks for the hoses tip, I was planning on switching out the radiator hoses next time I do the coolant.

I haven't decided about the antenna yet, I already have a universal motor, but I might end up putting in a fixed one. I'm just starting to look into the forums so I haven't heard of the deckplate mod, but I'll do a search for it.

 

[BQuad]

Thanks for the deckplate mod tip, Ron. I checked it out on T4R. Looks like a must do for when I get back, I'm deployed right now.

 

[Duane]

I would put a vote in for a coolant flush and pressure test the coolant system. Other than that perhaps the obvious of changing all the driveline fluids if it has been a while. diffs, xfer& trans. Check the wheel cylinders so they aren't leaking onto your brakes.
Plugs, air&fuel filters and check the timing after the new belt...maybe this is in maintenance but that seems to vary with owners.
Always good to check for any leaks/all fluid levels, all front end components, shocks, ujoints, boots, condition of trailer wiring especially if you drive a lot of gravel, etc etc...