Engine check light came on, but it was my fault. I pulled a connection loose that I shouldn't have and it threw the computer off. That cost me $45 bucks to reset.
Head gasket was covered under factory recall. This was an on going problem with Toys because of the temperature difference between the cast iron block and the aluminum heads. They finally solved it with about the seventh generation of gaskets.
Solid 4-wheeler, will climb trees if needed!
3.0 a bit underpowered, but can be improved with minor modifications.
For starters, lose the stock muffler and open up the exhaust from the converter back. I went with a dina max muffler and a 2.5 exhaust pipe to the rear.
Next put in a K&N air cleaner.
Gap the plugs about three thousands over stock and you will be amazed at the difference.
Keep it tuned, and don't forget the all important valve adjustment at the specified time. The "Hockey Puck" adjustment must be done by a trusted pro. I wouldn't recommend a dealer. I had mine done by a trusted friend who has been a pro mechanic for years. When he was done with it, the performance blew my mind. It runs like a pup with 106,000 miles.
I am considering purchasing a 95 4Runner. I've wanted a 4Runner for a long time! The one I'm looking at is a 4 cylinder. You all that have had problems with head gaskets, am I safe to think the problem is with the 3.0 V6 engines? As a female unfamiliar with mechanics I am trying to research as much as I can before making a purchase because my funds are somewhat limited and I don't want to have a lot of breakdowns. Also, can anyone recommend a mechanic in the Boise area?
Resetting (turning off) the check engine light is easy. There is a fuse under the hood that you just unplug and put back in- Or you can un hook the battery for about 30 seconds.
James.
I am also looking to purchase A 4Runner and the other a 95 with 186k and the othe a 1993 with 193k They are both 3.0 V6s and both under $5,000 wich is all I want to spend on a vehicle
I have had lots of luck withmy previous 1989 4Runner with a 22R-E Automatic Transmission (Hard to kill) it is unbeliveable what that thing has gone through and still running strong. It was a battle to keep it well tuned bucause of the mega amount of miles it had on it wich was 275,000k.
Also with it leaking a quart of oil every 3 days.
From what I read online the 3.0 V6 seems to have a headgasket problems along with a few other things
Are the 90s Runner any better or any worse? Are they as tough as my old 89?
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