Sell the FJ60 for a 98 4Runner?

[hank14]

Before I jump off the deep end, I thought I'd get your opinion here. I have been daily driving and working on my 87 FJ60 for almost a year and a half. I really enjoy it, but it is difficult to work on and drive all the time. I am thinking about buying this 4Runner and selling the 60 once I finish working on it:

https://forum.ih8mud.com/tx-lone-st...ift-arb-lockers-rockware-bumbers-sliders.html

I don't do a lot of wheeling, but do take 1000-1500 mile round trips to the mountains of New Mexico 2-3 times a year. The 60 is fun to drive, but not very comfortable on those trips. The gas mileage is not great, either. I have 2 young kids that often go with me. We would all be more comfortable in a newer vehicle. All I need is something that will perform well in mild to moderate off road situations, mud, and snow.

I'm not really in a position to keep both vehicles.

Based on this,

1. Is this particular 4Runner a good choice for me?
2. Is the price reasonable?
3. Should I keep working on the 60 and get it set up for better travel? I just bought rear shoulder belts, and could spring for a 5 speed if I wanted to.

Any input would be appreciated.

 

[Duane]

2 very different vehicles.... a 3rd gen 4 runner is a pretty low maintenance daily driver with reasonable off road trail capabilities

hopefully some more local guys can comment on the value of this particular 4 runner..and how good an ARB lift is. You can buy a 4runner with a factory rear locker. It really doesn't look like it is lifted...sort of looks just like my 96 and I run 32 inch tires on mine..no lift.... the bumpers and sliders look nice though!

 

[hoch]

First, if you're just looking for something cheaper to maintain, easier on gas, and can be very trail-worthy, the nod definitely goes to the 4Runner. 60's are cool and a classic, but the only way I’d own one is if it’s my trail-only vehicle. For comfort and reliability, get the 4Runner.

Secondly, that 4Runner is a great deal. It’s already tastefully modified and it’s at a very good price (of course, always bid low). The guy’s the original owner, which is a big plus. If he has all of the maintenance records, JUMP on that thing. He already has an ARB rear locker set up, so the front locker set up will be cheap(er), if you decide to go that route. The front bumper and rear bumpers are awesome. I’d pick this up in a heart-beat if I were looking for a 4Runner (and of course in talking to the owner to make sure he’s kept it up well). Oh, make sure the timing belt/water pump has been done, as Toyota recommends it at 90k. If not, at least make sure the water pump is not leaking. I think you’ll enjoy that 4Runner. Good luck.

 

[Jacket]

I agree - almost looks too good to be true. I'd jump on it - the 3rd gen 4Runner is an excellent choice!

Edit: he never says what is under the hood - but I assume its got the 3.4 V6?

 

[racedirt1]

Looks like a pretty good deal, but I agree it does not look lifted. Here is my '01 4Runner with a 3" OME lift.

 

[hoch]

Edit: he never says what is under the hood - but I assume its got the 3.4 V6?

IIRC, all Limiteds have the 3.4L V6?

EDIT: It's not a Limited. Don't know why I was thinking it was.... But from his other THREAD, it's a V6/auto.

racedirt1 - I did notice that it said a 4" lift, but seems to be not that high. The bumpers would have made the springs settle, but still seems low.

 

[TEPUI]

True, it doesn't look lifted. I've never heard of an ARB 4" lift for 4runners. Maybe the owner is referring to Old ManEmu? (or maybe the pic was taken before the lift) I'm running OME 2" on mine and it stands way higher than that.

 

[hank14]

I appreciate all the comments. I agree that it doesn't look like it has a 4" lift. When I asked him, he didn't know what the specs or part numbers for the lift were. I assume it's OME. My brother has a 96 Runner with the 2" OME, so I know what to look for.

I agree on the reliability, mileage, and comfort. I think the cost to maintain will be less as well.

I also agree that the price is right.

Realistically, I still have about $4K to spend on my FJ60 to get it where I'd like. The 4Runner is basically set up like I would want it. It even has CO2 for the locker, although he is keeping the tank. I'd need to get another one.

I'll post up if I look at it.

Anyone have Carfax access right now?

 

[Duane]

I tried to do some more digging... the tires in the photos look more like a factory 70 series Michelin... and the tread doesn't look like a Pathfinder tire ..
link Pathfinder Tires - All Terrain Tires

plus when I look in my ARB catalog in the suspension section it's just the Old Man Emu stuff.. I'm maybe thinking the photos are old..imagine this clean unit with the great bumpers and sliders, new rubber and a 4" lift.. maybe this thing is hot... maybe I had better grab a trailer and come get it quick
Let us know if this thing is for real hank14

 

[hank14]

I agree with you. I have some newer pics that show the interior and closer shots of the bumpers and body. I can see the newer tires and more room in the wheel well. If I look at it (it's a 4 hour out of the way round trip), I'll report back what I found.

 

[CDUFF7]

I bet his pic is not up to date with the mods he has installed!?

 

[Jason J Lisowski]

You should give in garage.if you want cash for sell that truck so i have a many link.so you finally decide what you want? either you repair or you want sell your truck....

 

[racedirt1]

You should give in garage.if you want cash for sell that truck so i have a many link.so you finally decide what you want? either you repair or you want sell your truck....

Huh?

 

[hank14]

Huh?

That's what I'm saying!

Anyways, once again I appreciate all the input. I'm going in for an intake/exhaust manifold gasket replacement, rebuilt carb, new clutch, and installing some rear shoulder seat belts over Christmas.

After all that, I'm thinking I'll keep driving the cruiser for a while- until I can keep it as a secondary vehicle and buy another daily driver.

Thanks again for all the input.