Toyota 4Runner: The 2nd Gen is Cooler Than You Thought - Everything You Need To Know

This is everything you need to know about Toyota's 2nd gen 4Runner plus my 12 years of ownership experience. We'll cover it all from it's history and specifications to it's flaws and qualities. Check it out if you want to know all about this awesome vehicle.

[@Dilomski]

As a fellow owner of one (91 3VZE Manual) I truly agree with the message of this video. Long live the second gen! And btw, the tailgate design is the best one!

[@da_garage383]

These rigs are fantastic! I am a bit mad at myself for forgetting to mention the rear window/tailgate situation though. Darn!

[@kylenavarro9232]

I love the tailgate BUT I hate that you have to roll down the rear window every time you need to open it, which sucks when it's dirty

[@Dilomski]

@@kylenavarro9232 True, it needs maintenance from time to time.

[@schlomoshekelstein908]

@@da_garage383 the window and tailgate really aren't an issue. it's blown out of proportion because of the sensors

[@jrod1995]

We have a 93 gen 2 3.0liter with 140k miles and love it. Just drove it home today in a foot of Sierra cement snow in nor cal and didn't even use 4x4. But probably should have... love that ride

[@augustooliveira2116]

I have a 94. I love its engine sound...I love its not so good headlights... I'm crazy about the rear window mechanism...and finally...I love its total absence of this modern electronic stuff of all nowadays SUVs.

[@HoundoomedVideos]

I picked up a '95 3.0 2wd 4runner about a year and a half ago for 400 bucks, did the plugs, replaced a knox sensor and it's been the funnest car I've ever had

[@slimdusty8718]

Just picked up a 1990 with 122,000 original miles from original owner. It’s spotless inside and out. I’m am so stoked to start playing with it on the beach and in the mountains!

[@da_garage383]

Ooh, nice! That's low miles for a 4Runner. It'll be a blast!

[@ruckustv7614]

That’s insane low miles congrats I got one last month 93 sr5 194,000

[@openureyes]

I just picked up a 1990 toyota 3.0 sunrader 3vze 53000 miles what would you recommend to do to the engine if you were me thanks 💚🇮🇪🙏

[@H.A..]

That is plain awesome bro. Word of advice, rinse the undercarriage every time you get back from wheeling. Keep that rust away from 'er that way. Have fun out there

[@noahwalker8298]

how much did you pay if you don't mind me asking!

[@seanomeara1959]

As a fellow owner of one (94 3VZE Auto) I truly agree with the message of this video also. I'm the 2nd owner, have had for 4 yrs now. It is slow but I do not care, hard to get speeding tickets. I use mine for work 6 days a week as a Handyman. I had 300K on the engine and it was getting tired. So recently replaced it with a Krate Refab Jasper engine. WOW! It can now actually get out of it's own way. BIG Difference. Jasper Warranty: 4yrs or 100,000mi Parts and Labor. Well worth it cause I Love my lil Runner. To me best part is the Rear Tail gate (Work bench, place to rest at lunch, or change my boots). Plus the rear window is awesome, keep it cracked 2 or 3 inches and there is No Air-Buffering in the Cab. Long Live the Gen 2...

[@danielboughton3624]

The turning radius is excellent and the size makes it very handy on old logging roads versus a full sized truck or modern SUV. This is what really sold the little pickups in the 80's - you could get into places that you couldn't go with your full sized rig. Replacement motors are inexpensive as are most parts but some parts e.g. the plastic bits are no longer available.

[@j1mbOZ31]

Great video! I picked up my 95’ 2nd gen V6 4WD Auto from a friend for cheap a couple years ago as a Covid quarantine project car and after repairs it’s been absolutely solid! First car i actually took off roading and I fell in love! I’ve since picked up a 3rd gen and built that up as my camping and off road rig and now it’s time to get rid of my 2nd gen but I find it hard to let her go haha

[@KevinPDunn]

Good fun, thanks for sharing - driver of a 94 3.0 5speed green w/ tan interior and sun roof These trucks are an absolute joy to drive, simple as that

[@4x4RunnerPNW]

Hey man! I have a ‘91 inline 4 22re 4Runner. It’s my first car, I got it two days ago and I am in love with it. The five speed manual was easy to learn to drive, and it runs like brand new! This video educated me on things I didn’t know about it. I appreciate it!

[@da_garage383]

Glad you liked the video! The 2nd gen 4Runner was my first car too over 12 years ago and I still love it. Take care of it and it'll take care of you for years to come.

[@HVAC_SMOKESTACK]

I’m getting ready to pick up my first one next week going to restore it and convert to and overlander. Thanks for the review and the honesty

[@trentonhollandsworth5776]

Finally some love for an amazing gen I got a 95 3.0 and I absolutely love the thing it’s so much fun

[@djucon]

Love the vibe of your video… 2nd gen 4Runners forever!! I have a 95’ passed down from the in-laws, never selling it!

[@PsychicChrissyxo]

As a 4Runner owner it’s cool to see how long they last, I have a 2004 SR5 and I love it. ❤

[@3.0colorado21]

I am currently getting mine running again. The AFM freaked out and fried the efi relay among other problems…. It’s been absolutely great for years until the random issue. I also have a 1st gen and love them both.

[@Gunma_garage]

Man I miss my 95 Sr5.. Manual box and tcase was such a beast off road, i loved snapping the clutch and spinning it around in tight mud trails. With only 31in mud tires and removed Chrome pkg, it went so much farther than I ever expected. I currently own a 00 Xj and constantly compare it to my rig from 12 yrs ago 😭. THAT MASSIVE sunroof, the power back window, the tailgate that I'd sit on and have lunch. Hated the ebrake tho (snapped cable) but with 196k, the ac was bitter cold, the heat was fine and I never had an engine issue. Aside from the battery slamming into the p/s pump when I was rock climbing and it barely moving a buddy's booger'd F350 haha. Great vid!! Awesome info

[@andregonsalvez9244]

Great show 😊 ! I just purchased a 5th generation 4Runner and I am looking @ many years of reliable service 😊 .

[@ratametaleramr]

I just bought a 1995, my 4th vehicle, It also became my favorite, I just fell in love with it

[@user-xj9jn3xl4f]

OMG! I have the exact same one as the author’s! I love my 4Runner as well! I got mine from a former coworker who hardly drove it. I got mine with 86k miles on it! The following is some advice: Don’t delete the EGR valve as it prevents preignition by cooling the intake charge (this info was from a former designer of the vehicle), also keep the stock exhaust. Even though it looks funny and seems counter-intuitive, the stock set-up provides for a good scavenge-effect and was designed as such to squeeze some more power out of the poor little engine that could! In fact ive spoken with and have read reviews on guys who replaced the stock exhaust with headers of which they concluded didn’t help at all and reduced power in some setups! Again this info was taken from one of the designers of that car (i wish I could find those white papers on the truck). Here are some tricks: i got some heads by LE engineering that really helped out a lot! It’s a night and day type of install! My engine just loves those cylinder heads! When you do the head swap, install tappet spacers for the greatest amount of valve lash which prevents some issues with the heads. Every 60,000 miles it’s good idea to recheck valve lash of which i think has something h to do with head gasket failure. Only use MLS head gaskets, which has either solved the issue or delayed it something fierce! It also makes the engine sound very cool (I tell my truck, named Warner, that he sounds like half of a Ferrari!). The other modification that I have yet to do is to replace the intake manifold for one that actually flows. If you look at it, the air must make several flow reducing turns before the air gets to the cylinder! It’s a terrible design that is also seen in Ford Mustangs with the 5.0 engine! Anyhow, I estimate serious horsepower gains with the design I have made for it. The less obstacles and turns a charge has to make the better! On some of the other Toyota engines with a 3.0 v6 found on Lexus is a manifold and throttle body design which induces sonic tuning, of which creates a greater than 100% volumetric efficiency, or in layman’s terms is like having a blower hooked up! Either that or a sort of tunnel ram! The greatest issue is that fuel delivery nose dives upon closing in on 3500 rpm. Anyway, I should have something g up and running in a few months or so. The last item is to install a capacitive discharge ignition box for the primary and secondary transformer (coil). The stock one is ok, but really needs some serious joules to ensure 100% combustion. That alone should improve things all around. The last mod I would do is to increase compression ratio which is anemic 9.0:1! I would bump that up to as close as 11 as the engine would allow and with a hot ignition, better flowing heads should be able to run just fine! That engine has a forged crankshaft and connecting rods! It seems like it was originally designed with way more horse power. The block shows reinforcing webbing throughout! It was made for more power! Last, but not least is to install a higher volume fuel pump. The injectors are not too shabby. Any increase in volume would be beneficial! Do not install the 3.4 twin cam setup! That is an expensive mod with very little gain. People who do this swap have paid a huge price in time and for meager increases. If you have to go crazy I would get their inline 4 cylinder engine, either turbo, super charged, or both if tons of power is what you want! They even come in crates ready to go and outproduce the 3.4 all around! But, I’m sticking with my unappreciated 3vze as I think it has great potential! I love my second gen 4Runner (so much so I named it) and plan on never giving him up!

[@TR_MEX]

Buying my first car on Monday! A 3rd gen 1999 4Runner with 160k miles on it! It’s not necessarily a 2nd gen but watching this video got me super hyped and seeing all the adventures and amazing times you had in your 2nd gen just gets me all giddy and exited lmao. Great video !!!

[@da_garage383]

That's awesome! The extra benefit to getting a 3rd gen is you'll have the better engine and - as long as it's maintained, you won't have the head gasket woes. You're going to love it!

[@gersonromero4967]

Haha that was my first car too a 1998 4runner wyd auto then got my 2 gen 4x4 manual but my 1998 got rear ended while parked but I got a 1997 now 4x4 3.4 manual

[@bongothaplant4730]

did you get it? How has it been? a 94, 2nd gen was my first. Ive put another 22k on top of the 254k it already had. I did rebuild the front suspension because it was a work truck for almost 20 years with the prior owner. but other than that its been a beast. Ive had it for 3 years and it is still the only vehicle ive driven that has not only got me to my destination, but it always got me home which is what really matters.

[@gersonromero4967]

@@bongothaplant4730 it’s good it’s 4x4 manual got back in 2018 for 400 had blown motor blown clutch differentials are no good and suspensions not good slowly got all the parts and repaired her it’s amazing experience with it

[@valerielesur6562]

I love this video! Everyone needs a 4Runner in their life. Thanks for the massive amount of helpful information,. Love the bit about the Little Tykes car. Great job. Thanks!

[@da_garage383]

Thank you! It was worth saving all those old videos and pictures of my 4Runner from over a decade ago. Never thought they'd get put to use until now.

[@valerielesur6562]

@@da_garage383 Now I can see them whenever I want! Thanks!

[@katemc.intyresmith9373]

Good video, good channel. Thanks for your efforts from sunny London Town

[@motooutlaw3250]

Great video! I have a 92 with the 3vze and manual. It came with no power features (windows,locks,sunroof) from the factory and I love that about it!

[@da_garage383]

Nice and simple!

[@coryhiatt3244]

Interesting and informative with some humor sprinkled in!😀

[@Eric-lr5ur]

My first toyota 4x4 was an 86 pickup in 1988. My latest is a 21 tacoma. I already have a 95 4runner that served as a very adequate log skidder after many years of faithful daily driving. I am definitely not a fan of the 3VZE but i got over 225k on both after a head gasket at 120k

[@robormiston2841]

I have a 93 and it has 5.29 gears and gives it lots of power. It's fun to drive too. I just put some 38.5 Boggers on it. Gearing really helps. With these 38.5's I barely can use 5th gear. With my 35's you can use 5th gear. I want 5.71 gears now.

[@Stannyco]

12:56 felt like one of those childhood memories with a car being a part of a family / life. Thanks for the vid, I am getting one in a few months just need to ship it to Europe!

[@fightthelies4349]

I have a 93 4runner with a 3.4 from a 98 4runner. The best of both worlds...

[@XathosPvP]

Great Video, I love my little 2nd Gen it never let me down so far... Greetings from Germany :) Here they are VERY rare and go for around 10k+ already

[@Pookiestud]

I just bought a ‘95 SR5. It’s got plenty of rust, but the frame is solid and the engine and drivetrain seem good. 202k miles. Hopefully the head gasket doesn’t blow anytime soon!

[@Freebird1765]

I have a 93 T-100 with the 3VZE, i just replaced the HG at 200K and upgraded the radiator fan with a high flow model, which made it noticeably cooler under the hood, hopefully will make the new HG last a good long while. My dad and brother both have 3rd gen 4 runners, it's amazing how much bigger they made the front seats on the T-100s than the 4runner in terms of shoulder and leg room, even though the 4runner overall has more inside space, I guess its so they could have that wide truck bed in the back for fitting 4x8 sheets of wood, drywall etc. If I ever sell my truck it will be for a 4Runner! Most likely either a 2nd or 3rd gen. My family also likes old Toyota Trucks & SUVs, Cool video!

[@vanillathunder988]

They're the perfect size, with adequate leg and headroom for even a bigger guy. I've owned 3 generations of 4Runners and 4 generations of Land Cruisers, this one is my favorite to drive. Stock suspension with Moog rear coils and 31" tires. With the V6, if you have oil leakage it's likely to be the valve cover gaskets. Desmogging really opens up the engine compartment, making it not such a hassle to get around. Besides the primary coolant hoses, there are 3 bypass lines that probably should be replaced as preventative maintenance if they're original. Two lead to the bottom of throttle body and one is at the back of engine. The first two years have a much more appealing grille, with Toyota lettering rather than the Sombrero.

[@schlomoshekelstein908]

it's not a sombrero dude it's the crests the japanese samurai wore on their helmets -- maedate i think its called. can't believe you called it a sombrero. u better be a mexican

[@Bonnie-wg4rd]

@@schlomoshekelstein908 and if he's not Mexican what the hell are you going to do about it bumass

[@stephenfrancis303]

​@@schlomoshekelstein908 as a mexican i dont care he called it a sombrero

[@AtomsForFuel]

I’m picking up a 94 3.0 VGZE today that runs and drives but needs fuel line repair that’s being gifted to me. Other than that, it runs and drives! I’m excited!

[@ecogek0_779]

recently got one it has some transmission issues and the starting coil is out but do i love this truck yes.

[@maximodomiguez4079]

Got ome as my first class, and tho the 22re needs some tunning it roars and still goes strong (and slow but who needs it) still love it, cant wait to get the mottor on point and go to the mountain range!

[@larryhart7494]

I love this video. Thank you. Makes me appreciate mine.

[@ethanfata5974]

I have a 93’ 4x4 with 53k original miles! Taking very good care of it and replaced plenty of parts, and it’s running smooth🤙🏽

[@wanderingdaze7018]

I got a manual 4x4. Green with brown interior for $1200 . I rebuilt motor and it has been a fun ride

[@paulhogan7583]

I had a gen 1 88 model 4runner ... Best toy I've ever had.....it's the only thing I've bought drove sold and regretted selling.... Still wished I had that unit back !!!!!!

[@coop_69]

91 3.0 manual here, had it for 4 years and have always used it like a side by side, very reliable and suoer capable

[@maxwellpereira]

About 18 years ago my father buy a gray, 1993, 2.8 diesel aspirated 4Runner, bring much joy to the family's trips. Here in Brazil we don't have 4Runner's, it's called only Hilux SW4, the vehicle in case was independent import, so, it was pretty rare. Unfortunetely my father sell to buy a newer model, but the 93 4Runner left a big miss.

[@hungsober]

Interesting but the best thing about it is how it’s a good starting platform to engine swap and if you want a better crawlers a solid axle swap.

[@411hippieco7]

I'm smitten with my 94. 4 Years strong. Fortunately, the previous owner gave it much needed upgrades. You forgot to talk about how great the back of it is. It opens like a flatbed truck, making it a great car to tailgate. Zero speeding tickets too ; p I love camping in it and using it as my daily driver (locally).

[@DarkSlayer777]

I needed to watch this video, I love the 2nd gen, im currently rebuilding my late father's 1990 v6 and yes the engine is a bit of a pain to work on but it will be worth it, i just love this truck as well

[@da_garage383]

Good luck! Yes, they're worth it. Just all around a great and fun vehicle.

[@sampacheco7757]

My first SUV. Loved it replaced the head gaskets twice but with it. Such a fun vehicle. Had it for years. I now have a 3rd gen and love that as well. Wish I would have kept it.

[@da_garage383]

Too bad the head gaskets are such an issue because otherwise they're awesome and fun vehicles. How's the 3rd gen treating you? Probably no head gasket issues with the 3.4?

[@MITTLE94]

I had a 93 LN130 with a big turbo. the only let down of the whole car was the lack of solid front axle like the hilux. Was an awesome car. I miss it

[@McNuggets-419]

Love this Vid. Ive had my 94 3.0 for a few years from now and my appreciation for it just keeps growing. Except the complete lack of speed and meaningful power lol.

[@studedude56]

Great video!

[@RonaldChapman-jg5xu]

I love the body style the best on those over the new ones.

[@CaptainFALKEN]

Nice truck! I like the 4 spoke wheels too.

[@fmayson]

95 3vze here. Got it at 290k, engine was already replaced. Its the best daily driver and adventure truck I have ever owned.

[@robertwhybro607]

Bob here in Australia 🇦🇺,,, my thoughts are with You,, I’ve had mine for about 6 years now,,, totally reliable,, yes,, slightly under powered,, need to keep it driving above 2000 rpm,, not a problem,, with a rear locker,, I out do most of my friends Off-road.. Happy Travels… 😎✌️👍

[@da_garage383]

These are already capable off-road but with a locker these will go everywhere! Very cool.

[@millhouseforever]

Great video

[@bongothaplant4730]

My 3vze 93 has been decent actually, 280k and it still hasn't actually left me stranded. My 01 mustang and expedition have left me stranded many times. Sure it gets terrible milage and sounds like a prop plane going down the highway but it pulls its weight very well where it needs to. It isn't supposed to be fast or efficient. Its supposed to go places and get back. It pulls very well offroad even without any modifications. Only with the 5 speed tho. Hell i once pulled a near 10k lb car hauler over 100 miles and back with no issue other than staying in 4th constantly and burning 25gal of gas during that trip

[@flir67man84]

Just did my wifes 1994 sr5 long bed 4 x4 v6 3.0 engine, timebelt, water pump , gastank , fuel pump and sending unit. Painted frame, etc.. time it right with strobe.. getting 12mpg… i think the 15% ethanol in gas is killing my fuel economy.. but it purrs so smooth. Even has factory mickey Thompson type III original rims on it. It goes anywhere as you have said. It has 211,000 miles..

[@relaxbecalm5574]

Having kickdown cable issues. And have transmission rebuild kit since reverse slips some.A340H

[@teslaboi47duckbuck82]

i own own one and its stick v6 and its like 30 year old. I love it so much

[@brkbtjunkie]

My father has the same year range Tacoma SR5 and that thing is a honey badger. Limited slip rear diff and 5 spd manual.

[@brentatkinschryssilvestre8012]

I have an '89 2nd gen JDM Hilux surf. Diesel 2LT ,manual. Looks like the '90 4runner. Great trucks. Not fast but fun off road. Only 65k miles on the clock.

[@billsmith281]

I have a 90 & owned for 6 years (Australia), the original exhaust manifolds were swapped for extractors, engine breathes better & pipes are no longer near the back of the engine. No issues so far.

[@rockymtnsteeze1815]

I had a 1992 just like yours. It had a blue interior, sun roof and was blue with the side stripes thing. On my title it said light truck. I still think about it and wonder if it is still out there. I had a lot of fun driving it in the Colorado Backcountry. It never left me stranded, it died in my driveway.

[@da_garage383]

Good ole 4Runner always gets you back home. So you sold it as non-running?

[@jerseyadams6686]

I have a 92 3VZE auto and Im currently getting the engine rebuilt after 330,000 miles on her. She does great in the Arizona desert and don't need any upgrades like everyone else. I just have lights and a top rack. Super durable and use it as my daily. Everyone makes fun of my 4 runner but this gen was definitely the best one. Just really hard finding parts for it 😢

[@da_garage383]

Yeah, they're great! I used to daily mine and I loved it.

[@festivekamikaze]

a good thing to mention would be how many options the Hilux Surf had compared to the 4Runner like TEMS (electronic shocks), Recaro seats, 6 speaker 3 DIN stereo, electronic climate controls, limited slip differential, reclining rear seats, widebody kit, dual batteries with heated fuel filter for the diesel, the many paint and dual tone colors and the European models which are diesel but left hand drive.

[@da_garage383]

Learn new things everyday. A lot of those things I didn't know were options for the Surf. I'm familiar with the US version and it's unfortunately not nearly as optionable as other markets. It would have been worth mentioning but most of the research I did was US market based and some of those things I didn't know about, nor were they mentioned in articles. Thanks for the comment!

[@kylenavarro9232]

I think anti-lock brakes were added for the 1992 facelift, if not for the first models in model year 1990. My '93 has ABS. But as far as I know, 2nd gens only got rear wheel ABS. I think the '95s might have gotten front ABS too. I've had mine for 11 years now and I couldn't think of ever getting rid of it. I did have to replace the head gasket myself almost 2 years ago after I stupidly let it run hot going over a mountain pass. I learned a LOT during that head gasket job lol. Saved a ton of cash too. Over the last few years I've gotten interested in hypermiling and so far my personal best is 24.1 mpg average over 421 miles on one tank (verified by GPS). Mine is a manual 3vze with manual hubs, a K&N replacement filter, and worn down 32-inch BFG all-terrain tires.

[@da_garage383]

Thanks for the comment! I'm struggling to find info on the antilock brakes for these 2nd gens. I had the original window paper for my 94' 4Runner and it mentioned 4 wheel antilock brakes. It looks like the 94' and above with the v6 got 4wheel antilock. Possibly earlier years only had rear antilock? I'm not entirely sure. Anyway, they're fantastic rigs. Getting 24mpg for that is good. I drove on 32's as well but never tired to see what my best mileage could be. I only recall getting a touch over 21 mpg and didn't assume I could do much better so I never checked.

[@kylenavarro9232]

@@da_garage383 yeah! now that I look there are a lot of details about the 2-wheel ABS and later 4-wheel ABS in the digital copy of the 2g4r FSM that I got from a Facebook group (2nd Gen 4Runner Mafia). And that 24mpg I got, I reeaally put in an effort for that lol. Tried to keep my speed as low as safely possible and tried to prevent idling whenever possible.

[@NickDV007]

I have a '93 with a 3 litre 1KZ-TE diesel here in the UK, it's Hilux Surf. Owned it for 17 years and no intention of letting it go any time soon cos it's great! These are very underrated and get unfair criticism, but I reckon they'll soon be much sought after. Great video and thanks for sharing

[@da_garage383]

Thanks for the comment! I suspect these will go up in value more so. They have a little bit here in the states, but not much. I think it's because over here everyone is scared of the 3VZ. Ones that have been swapped to the 5VZ shoot up in value.

[@kylenavarro9232]

international diesel model surfs go for a fortune now here in the states

[@NickDV007]

@@kylenavarro9232 They still pretty cheap here.

[@carlosnorris352]

Is it solid front or ifs?

[@NickDV007]

@@carlosnorris352 IFS

[@mrgrimreaper94]

If u buy headers and reroute the exhaust u won't have issues with the head gasket the issue mainly came from the exhaust sitting right behind the block literally dam near up on it and get a rough country lift kit and buy summit racing hose kit your looking at about 1500 bucks upgrade but well worth it heck buy new head gasket to why not

[@TheSaturnV]

Current 3rd gen lover, but I did have a '94 before it. I have to say the 2nd gen is actually a little nicer vehicle as far as not being made quite as cheap as the 3rd gens. The back glass roll down and combo tailgate was really well made and I'm certain they dropped it for cost issues.

[@miatalife94]

1990 4runner sr5 with the 5 speed, 287,000 and running strong only thing it has done is a 2in old man emu lift and 33in falkens plus maintenance items. amazing truck

[@chengchang7932]

Tire's 17 or 15 thanks

[@adennelsen4740]

i have a 95 4runner swapped with the 3.4 paired with 5speed definitely the perfect vehicle for me

[@da_garage383]

The 3.4 swap is definitely my next move. It's just a much better power plant in every way.

[@CopeManMTNDEW]

Love my 90 2nd gen 4 runner. Originally was a 2wd 3vz automatic. I used a 94 pick up parts truck and converted my 4 runner to a 4wd 22re 5 speed. Also swapped in 4.56 axle gears. It's such a fun vehicle. My only complaint with the 2nd gens is the rear tailgate. I wish it was a flip up hatch door with roll down window like the later generations. Other than that. I love everything about them.

[@da_garage383]

Now that's cool!

[@toyota4afe]

Cool video and I agree the 3vz gets a bad rap. Doesn't deserve it, many of them go over 200k before needing gaskets.

[@Wizzet406]

I've rebuilt two of these. Bought both cheap with blown head gaskets. Three things I absolutely despise - Rebuilding an engine to find out the knock sensor cord is faulty. The AFM. The TPS. Everything else - I love.

[@da_garage383]

I dug into the engine to replace the knock sensor. It was a faulty sensor wire. Yes, they're a pain to work on. Love my Toyota, hate to work on it.

[@PsychAlert]

Great video. I own 1993 1kz-te diesel engine, right hand drive. I’m trying to put roof rails or roof rack but there are no predrilled holes on the roof. How did you install the roof rails?

[@da_garage383]

Thanks for the comment! Unfortunately I won't be of much use to answer that question because my 4Runner came with the roof rack factory installed.

[@studedude56]

I have a 95 that’s in the shop getting a 3.4 swap! Cant wait to get it back.

[@da_garage383]

Ooh, yeah that's going to be awesome! I bet you're just itching to get it back.

[@studedude56]

@@da_garage383 They’ve had complications and it’s been in the shop for one year. The motor has been in and out three times. They finally got somebody who is dedicated to the project. In three days they got it running and driving. I should get it back in the next week or two. Can’t wait

[@da_garage383]

@@studedude56 A year!? No wonder you can't wait to get it back. I'd want it back after a month, but a whole year? I don't blame you! I hope there's no more complications and you get the ol' runner back soon!

[@jsb1945]

I own a 93 4runner with the mighty 2.8 diesel. My father bought it brand new, and we never let this thing to get trashed or scratched. Still looking brand new and didn’t have big dents or scratches. The interior just have minor signs of use, and in my small city is the only one looking originally new. And I never gonna change my truck for other one…

[@da_garage383]

The diesels are really cool. I wish we got them over in the states! They last forever so there's no need to replace it with a different truck. Thanks for the comment!

[@brysontombarge9523]

I feel lucky. I have a 1990 with a 22re 5 speed and only 150k on it. It’s a keeper and leaves a little room under the hood. My old 95 with the 3.0 was a bit cramped under there. These second gens are the coolest 4Runners out there

[@da_garage383]

2nd gens with the 22re are a bit rare now days. That's really cool! Definitely a keeper.

[@alejandroperezkeogan8281]

I love my 4Runner too ❤❤❤

[@nickt9467]

1990 3VZE 5 spd; 280k miles. The 3VZE is a very good engine with 1 major design flaw and one major implementation flaw. The over-reliance on vacuum lines definitely adds long-term maintenance concerns and adds unnecessary labor. That's the design flaw. Whoever was in charge of routing that freaking manifold right behind the cylinder bank and ahead of he firewall was not having a good day. But that is a fitment issue as much as a design flaw within the engine itself. Its head, which cooks the head gasket in that one specific spot. If you keep them cool, they will run forever. I'd rather have this than the 22.

[@prdubi]

I have knowledge of three 2nd gen owners who did the cross over exhaust delete and two of them are at 300k and the other is at 400k or so on their rebuilt. After witnessing several blown head gaskets, the crossover delete fix works.

[@da_garage383]

I'd agree the crossover delete works given you can get an extra 200k miles out of the otherwise stock engine but I've heard of head gaskets going even after the delete. When you get 400k out of it though, who cares? With that kind of mileage something is bound to break anyway plus it's lasted ages longer than any other vehicle on the road.

[@tristinwhitworth9121]

i have a first gen, I'm gonna out a 3rz in it , keep it stock, maybe some gearing but no lift

[@Stormtrooper_98Trd]

I agree with everything I bought a 95 with a 4 inch lift on 33x12.50r15 love it to death idc about going fast!!

[@da_garage383]

Good thing you don't care about going fast because the ol' 4Runner aint going speedily anywhere especially on 33's. Still they manage to be tremendously fun and capable rigs aside from it's lack of speed.

[@Stormtrooper_98Trd]

@@da_garage383 100% agree!!

[@marcos223.]

I’m looking at a 1993 sr5 v6 automatic with 163,000 but I don’t know if it’s too old I want to get one that will last.

[@berserkerstrommortsgreb3131]

I have a 95. You’re absolutely right it’s slow and inefficient I love it. Not sure why but I just love it. Everything you say is right. Great video

[@da_garage383]

Thank you! I've always felt the same way in that it's not a thrilling or particularly special or rare vehicle - it's just cool and we love them.

[@chengchang7932]

​@@da_garage383 Which do you think you should buy now, 3 or 5bro

[@da_garage383]

@@chengchang7932 3 or 5 what?

[@chengchang7932]

@@da_garage383 2nd or 3nd

[@da_garage383]

@@chengchang7932 Would I buy a 2nd gen or 3rd gen? I have a 2nd but I'm going to swap the 3rd gens 3.4L engine into mine. I like both so maybe someday I'll own one of each.

[@toyo_roadrunner]

I love my second gen! It's a 1994 and 2wd but still does well mild off-road. I got a great deal on mine but the motor was toast so I 3.4 swapped it. The 5vz fe really does fix most issues with reliability and fuel economy. Also can drive interstate speeds.

[@da_garage383]

I'm excited to do the 5VZ swap. Everyone says it's a day and night difference. A far superior engine compared to the 3VZ

[@zerobe49]

How much do you good one would go for say 175,000 miles

[@da_garage383]

@@zerobe49 it's hard to say without knowing it's appearance and other factors. 2wd or 4wd? Also location can change the price a lot. Auto or manual? 3.0 engine? There's a lot of variables so it could be anywhere from $1500 to $10,000.

[@toyo_roadrunner]

@@zerobe49 driving I'd say 1.5k not driving I wouldn't pay more than 200 💵 as long as the frame isn't rusted out.

[@zerobe49]

@DA_Garage 4x4 all black man in Texas. No add ons

[@ruiz212]

Found a 95 for sale with 200k miles owner asking 3k says ac not working. Think I'll go take a look.

[@billchesser1475]

In November 1989 I bought my second generation 5-speed manual 4Runner. 420K later, I was rear ended. I never had any engine problems, but yes it’s butt did sag. Just changed the oil (20w-50) every 5k miles. This and my first car (1972 Plymouth Valiant) are the only cars I’ve loved. My 1997 4Runner is ok, but the automatic transmission is terrible.

[@zealousoutdoors]

I've had two Toyotas with the 3vz, one truck and one 4runner (I've had almost 20 toyota trucks ranging from 1973 to 1999 models). Both ran great and didn't give me any issues. Only Toyota I've had that needed a head gasket was a 22re. My biggest complaint about the 2nd gen and later 1st gen 4x4 4runners is the torsion suspension. It really limits your options on better riding aftermarket stuff that the 3-5 gen get to enjoy. I do have a love for the 2wd with torsions, as slamming them into the dirt was so cheap and easy.

[@relaxbecalm5574]

I got one in the Philippines with gas v6 same color as the one in this video

[@livinglikeahuman7918]

3.0 Gang Talk smack and check the odometer ! Got 300k on mine and she’s still running zero issues !!! 🎉

[@jamesm2872]

You forgot to mention the tailgate. One of the best features.

[@da_garage383]

I know, I'm so disappointed I forgot. I love the tailgate. Thought about it but forgot to add it to my script.

[@roccosiclari8422]

I have 1994 runner I love it

[@2-old-Forthischet]

I just bought a 4th gen 4wd V8 4Runner Limited only because the older ones are really expensive!

[@dixonbuttes6564]

Great video. The criticism of this generation is entirely irrational. Moderately cared for 2nd gens easily made it to 300k miles, except in nanny states that heavily salt their roads for their sheeple. The 2nd gen is the 1st gen with a new body and interior. The 3VZE was in the 1st and 2nd gen ... yet people seem to go bananas for the 1st gen, not acknowledging that the entire drivetrain is identical. The 4th Gen 4Runner had a great engine, but was a total divergence from the 4x4 heritage, in that they made that long, wide, low, heavy, and gave it a van-style floor parking brake, which makes it DOA for hard offroad use. The best gen will always be the 3rd gen, followed by the 1st/2nd gen, and then the 5th gen, noting that the 5th gen was harmed for offroad use due to NHTSA regulations. They require heavy and expensive modification to make them near equal with the 1st/2nd gen in fully stock form, which is a huge indicator of how good the 2nd gen really is. The market is off the rails, and most people are very clearly mistaken. My parents' 1994 4Runner still runs like new in 2024, and has never once let them down. My uncle's 1990 finally blew its head gasket at 300k miles sometime around 2015.

[@saltymethods2637]

Consider a 3.4L swap. And adding new suspension (JD Fab or Total Chaos).

[@jedisentinel1499]

It’s a station wagon on a pickup frame. Great vehicle!

[@radomirblazik]

94 diesel 1kz-t reprezent .. manual... Offloading at idle. Just with the bonkers torque

[@openureyes]

Hi bud I've just bought a 1990 toyota 3.0 sunrader 3vze with 53000 miles just wondering if you can help me out with what I should do to the engine to keep it going for years to come thanks bud 💚🇮🇪👍

[@da_garage383]

That's low miles! It'll be good to you for a long time, but basic maintenance is the best thing you can do to prolong the life of these. Heat build up is the killer of head gaskets so always make sure your radiator is functioning well, clean inside and clean coolant. Regular oil changes and quality oil. High mileage oil (after 75,000 miles). Water pump and timing belt. Not over working the engine and high RPM if possible.

[@openureyes]

@@da_garage383 thank you 👍💚🇮🇪❤️🇺🇸

[@Chalado-Schamane]

my favorite

[@francesfuego6950]

Seeing one right now in my area little dinged up, missing a cat for 800? Worth it?

[@da_garage383]

Do you know how many miles it has?

[@francesfuego6950]

@@da_garage383 170k somebody else scooped it up , snooze you lose lol

[@Thomasj27]

I remember taking that trusty old 2nd gen wheeling.

[@da_garage383]

I miss those days. That was so much fun going out wheeling. How's the Tacoma?

[@Thomasj27]

@@da_garage383 220,000 miles been through all the western states. Currently mending a deer hit

[@da_garage383]

@@Thomasj27 The mileage sounds right but you hit a deer? how bad is it?

[@Thomasj27]

@@da_garage383 just the plastic bits on the front! Still able to drove across the state for work! Amazing the places that Taco has taken me since you last saw it!

[@da_garage383]

@@Thomasj27 I'm glad to hear it doesn't sound too bad. Of course it would keep running though - it's a Toyota! I bet you've been all over the place with that truck, it's been like 10 years since that time we went out wheeling.

[@herri18]

I jabe swapped 3rz in my 2nd gen 1993 with auto transmission