1988 Toyota 4Runner SR5 22R-E 5-speed 4x4 with a remanufactured engine

Why we picked it

Why we picked it: the first-gen 4Runner with the 22R-E and a 5-speed is the combination most builders want, and this private-party truck in Sacramento County asks $8,000. The seller says it has a remanufactured engine from S&S in Seattle, passes California smog every time, has only surface rust, and recently got new Falken Wild Peak tires, a battery, CV axles, U-joints and a balanced driveshaft.

The odometer shows 302,050 miles and the interior needs seats and a headliner, the passenger door sags and the rear window does not roll down. That is why we compare it with worn, high-mile trucks, which have sold for $8,500 to $15,255 recently.

The value check

The seller is asking $8,000. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $8,500–$15,255, so the middle of the market is about $11,877.50. That put this car 33% under.

High-mileage first-gen 4Runner SR5 drivers have sold for $8,500 to $15,255 in the last few months (Hagerty, BaT). Lower-mile and restored trucks bring far more, so we compare only with worn, high-mile examples.

Where the numbers come from:

• 1987 4Runner SR5 manual, 153k mi, Hagerty, $8,500
• 1986 4Runner SR5 manual, 156k mi, BaT, $12,500
• 1986 4Runner SR5 auto, 245k mi, BaT, $14,250
• 1988 4Runner SR5 V6 manual, 185k mi, BaT, $15,255

What to check

• Check the frame for rust and cracks, especially near the rear leaf-spring hangers and the cab-mount area
• Removable fiberglass top: look for leaks, cracks and tired seals
• 22R-E timing chain and guides; ask whether they were replaced with the reman engine and get the receipt
• Passenger door sag points to worn hinge pins; check the A-pillar and door for rust
• Title status is not stated in the listing; confirm a clean California title
• Mileage is very high; inspect the transfer case, front diff and IFS ball joints

Making it drive like new

Freshen the IFS with new ball joints, tie rods and an Old Man Emu or similar 2 to 3 inch lift, add front and rear disc-brake upgrades from later Toyota trucks, and consider an ARB or e-locker in the rear. Modern seats, a three-point belt check and a roll bar for the open-top use are worth doing before any power upgrades.