Sorry if this has already been covered (probably has, but search function didn't find anything for me).
I'm currently selling my 1996 4Runner and am looking to get into something a bit larger and more comfortable. I've narrowed things down to either a Gen 2.5 or Gen 3 Montero.
So far I've test driven a few gen 3s, they are much more common around here in Indianapolis than gen 2/2.5. Both had very similar issues: oil leaks on the back of the head (valve cover gasket/'half-moon' rubber pieces?) , and a rumble in 5th gear at 40-50 mph (wrong ATF type causing TC issues?). These issues and a 4wd vacuum solenoid getting stuck and causing the 4wd lights to flash and not engage the front axle are what I've heard of on the 3rd gens. I think I've also heard something about the fuel gauge reading faulty. Are there any other common known issues with these trucks? Is the torque converter rumble easily remedied by swapping in the correct Mitsu fluid?
Onto gen 2.5s, I have yet to test drive one, but i like the relative simplicity of the 4spd automatic and solid rear axle, along with having a real frame and optional rear locker. Do these generally have fewer fiddly issues than the gen 3s? Or is that assumption incorrect? Are they less picky with fluids for the transmission and rear axle?
I really love the way the gen 3 rides and handles on the road, I could see myself taking long road trips in one. Also, they are easier to find with lower miles. However the shape and construction of the 2.5 really speaks to me.
Opinions or input? Again, sorry if I'm rehashing old stuff, feel free to direct me to older threads!
I'm currently selling my 1996 4Runner and am looking to get into something a bit larger and more comfortable. I've narrowed things down to either a Gen 2.5 or Gen 3 Montero.
So far I've test driven a few gen 3s, they are much more common around here in Indianapolis than gen 2/2.5. Both had very similar issues: oil leaks on the back of the head (valve cover gasket/'half-moon' rubber pieces?) , and a rumble in 5th gear at 40-50 mph (wrong ATF type causing TC issues?). These issues and a 4wd vacuum solenoid getting stuck and causing the 4wd lights to flash and not engage the front axle are what I've heard of on the 3rd gens. I think I've also heard something about the fuel gauge reading faulty. Are there any other common known issues with these trucks? Is the torque converter rumble easily remedied by swapping in the correct Mitsu fluid?
Onto gen 2.5s, I have yet to test drive one, but i like the relative simplicity of the 4spd automatic and solid rear axle, along with having a real frame and optional rear locker. Do these generally have fewer fiddly issues than the gen 3s? Or is that assumption incorrect? Are they less picky with fluids for the transmission and rear axle?
I really love the way the gen 3 rides and handles on the road, I could see myself taking long road trips in one. Also, they are easier to find with lower miles. However the shape and construction of the 2.5 really speaks to me.
Opinions or input? Again, sorry if I'm rehashing old stuff, feel free to direct me to older threads!