1997 Toyota Hilux Surf SSR-X
The 4Runner is a coveted model in the USA. Its bulletproof reliability, tough body on frame platform, and surefooted 4×4 system combine to create the ultimate year round daily driven SUV.
Exterior Overview
The 4Runner is a coveted model in the USA. Its bulletproof reliability, tough body on frame platform, and surefooted 4WD system combine to create the ultimate year-round daily driven SUV. Like our American trucks, this example is powered by a trusty four-cylinder gasoline engine, yet is offered with a fraction of the miles of what can be found Stateside. This 1997 is also quite handsome, and is adorned with a brand new Ironman 4X4 lift, a set of black refinished OEM 16″ wheels, an aggressive factory spare tire carrier, OEM rear spoiler, OEM rainguards, and some menacing privacy tint. Aside from a few light dings, chips, and scrapes the Black over Gray (204) paint and factory graphics are in good shape overall and this trusty rig is fresh off a recent service. Boasting only 117k verified and documented miles on the ticker, this baby is barely broken in. Perfect as a safe family hauler, cool campsite crawler, or unique daily driver, this Japanese Classic is as versatile, practical, and collectible as they come.
Interior Overview
The Surf has a simple cabin with a clean design. It features functional power windows, electric locks, power mirrors, and power back glass which makes daily use more enjoyable. An upgraded touchscreen Panasonic head unit pumps in the tunes to supplement your daily commute and looks great, too. If you value safety and entertainment, the unit includes Bluetooth hands-free tech. Dual SRS airbags are on standby for those riding up front, as well. To find the ideal driving position, the pilot benefits from a tilt-adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support. A woodgrain steering wheel replaces the chunky factory unit, and classes up the cabin a tad too. This lifted rig is easy to maneuver in tight parking situations, thanks to a trick convex power under mirror that unfurls from the rear spoiler. The automatic climate control unit is close by and within arm’s reach. The heat gets nice and toasty, and the air conditioning blows cold for next year’s summer. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and the owner’s manuals and maintenance booklets are stowed in the sizable glovebox. The cloth seats are in good shape and lack any major rips, stains, or tears. The rear row four-way reclines and can also tumble forward and fold flat to increase the cargo hold size. The textured cloth door cards match and are in fine shape. The headliner is clean and held taut to the roof, too. Aside from some carpet staining and the power folding function of the side mirrors not working, it is hard to complain about the interior.
Mechanical Overview
The simple body on frame platform is able to withstand loads of abuse. The same can be said for the engine, the 3RZ-FE. Fresh off an oil and filter service, the 2.7L whirrs to life care of a new 12v battery. To ensure the four-banger stays topped up on lubricant, one of our trained techs has repaired some pesky oil leaks. We resealed the oil pump and oil filter housing so that the new owner could hit the road immediately and enjoy this Surf. Thermal management is handled by a brand-new water pump, as well. The engine is linked to a stout automatic gearbox that shifts just as it should. The selectable transfercase allows the driver to ride around in RWD, which improves fuel economy and acceleration. For the occasional dusting of snow, 4WD can be engaged on the fly, and for low traction scenarios, a low range is on standby. This Hilux feels peppy about town and is comfortable getting up to highway merging speeds. It slows down impressively well thanks to standard ABS and benefits from new front brake pads and rotors. For state inspection, we replaced the right rear axle and changed out the brake shoes and drum on that side. We also installed a brand new Ironman lift kit, which improves the off road capability, overall ride quality, and aesthetics. Freshly aligned with new inner and outer tie rods, this truck tracks straight as an arrow and the power steering rack was fully rebuilt, too. Grip is handled by four new 33″ Falken tires. Mounted and balanced here at the dealership, they reduce road noise and will last for tens of thousands of miles to come.
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