Not a hunting truck question, but need advice as to my '97 4-Runner which is my principal vehicle.
I have taken excellent care of it with the work done by the dealer. Changed oil, timing belts, water pump, etc. every (3,000 oil)60,000 miles as recommended. The 4-Runner is at 200,000 miles and due for a new timing belt, tune up, etc.
If I have this work done do you think I could get to 300,000 or would it be smarter to save the money for some of the down payment of a new 4-Runner or Tacoma.
Thanks,
Jim

I think 300k is pretty reasonable for that vehicle. You wouldn't be saving much towards a down payment by not doing those repairs.

Jim,

I am exactly where you are now. My 98 4runner has 179,000 +- miles now and I must make the same decision that you now have. I did all of the 90,000 mile service including the timing belt, injectors cleaned, etc. at a cost of approx. $1200 including a battery, if my memory is correct.

I WILL BE DOING THE SAME SERVICE AGAIN SHORTLY, including replacing the water pump this time. My decision is based on the belief that I could not get a more dependable vehicle for $1500 to $ 1800 or whatever it costs, as I will have when complete. I have every confidence that it will go to 300,000 miles.

If I travel 10,000/yr. an say the cost is $1800.00 divided by 120 months = about $15.00/month cost. I think that is cheap.

Thats my logic and decision.

Thanks to both of you!
VaHunter, I had not broken the costs down to a monthly figure. Looking at it from that angle, it is a pretty cheap and dependable ride!

Knowing how your ride has been treated for the first 200k is priceless. It's worth all of what your going to spend...

W

Thanks, Woofer! I think that I will let them go bumper to bumper and drive it for awhile.
Jim

I'd change the timing belt and valve cover gaskets. You'll be good til 300K

My '97 4-runner has 286,000 miles and I plan on getting a lot more miles on her. My 20001 4-runner has 201,000 miles and is just broken in.

How do the current 4-runners compare?

Bought my used '98 Taco V6 4x4 ext cab in July '06

had 113K on it...two other owners...now has 217K on it

The only reason I would sell it...to get another..but 4 door

If you are content driving it..I'd dump the $$ into it & keep

300K on the 3.4L Toyota isn't outta reach.....I'd replace all the

hoses...belts...plug wires & plugs...air filter...T/belt

drive it !

Your logic and math is the same that I use. I'm keeping my paid for '97 Tacoma FOREVER. I bought it new, have serviced it religiously, and know it's entire history. I love it much more than our '14 4Runner that cost $35K.