1988 4Runner Owners Manual

The 1988 Toyota 4Runner is a versatile sport utility vehicle combining truck durability with SUV comfort. This manual covers the 2.4L 22R-E fuel-injected engine, 5-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel drive system, and all essential vehicle operations. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Safety Information 3. Controls and Instruments 4. Operating Instructions 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Specifications 7. Troubleshooting 8. Technical Specifications 9. Warranty Information

Vehicle Overview

The 1988 4Runner features a rugged body-on-frame construction with removable fiberglass top, offering both open-air driving and enclosed comfort.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.4L 22R-E 4-cylinder fuel-injected
Transmission	5-speed manual (W56)
4WD System	Part-time with manual locking hubs
Seating Capacity	5 passengers
Cargo Capacity	42.5 cubic feet
Fuel Tank	17.2 gallons
Towing Capacity	3,500 lbs
Ground Clearance	8.7 inches
Turning Circle	38.7 feet
Payload Capacity	1,200 lbs

Safety Information

Always follow proper safety procedures when operating or maintaining your 4Runner.

Seat Belts: Always wear seat belts; ensure all passengers are properly restrained.
Child Safety: Children under 12 should ride in rear seats with appropriate restraints.
4WD Operation: Engage 4WD only on slippery surfaces to avoid drivetrain damage.
Jacking: Use proper jack points when lifting vehicle; never work under unsupported vehicle.

WARNING! Never remove fiberglass top while vehicle is in motion. Always engage parking brake on inclines.

Controls and Instruments

Familiarize yourself with all controls before driving.

Dashboard: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure, voltmeter.

Controls: 4WD shifter, transmission shifter, transfer case lever, climate controls, light switches.

Instrument Panel: Warning lights for brake, battery, oil pressure, check engine. Climate: Manual heating/air conditioning controls. Audio: AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Lighting: Headlight switch, fog lights, interior dome light.

Operating Instructions

Proper operation ensures longevity and safety.

Starting: Depress clutch, turn key to start position, release when engine starts.
4WD Engagement: Stop vehicle, shift transfer case to 4H or 4L, lock front hubs manually.
Removable Top: Remove rear quarter windows first, then lift top from vehicle.
Towing: Use proper hitch equipment; do not exceed 3,500 lb capacity.
Off-road: Use 4L for steep inclines; maintain steady throttle on loose surfaces.

CAUTION! Do not engage 4WD on dry pavement. Allow engine to warm up in cold weather.

Maintenance Schedule

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change
Every 7,500 miles: Rotate tires, inspect brakes
Every 15,000 miles: Replace air filter, check spark plugs
Every 30,000 miles: Change transmission fluid, transfer case fluid
Every 60,000 miles: Replace timing chain, check valve clearance
Seasonal: Check coolant, battery, wiper blades

Fluid Specifications

Use only recommended fluids for optimal performance.

Fluid	Specification	Capacity
Engine Oil	10W-30 API SF	5.1 quarts
Coolant	Ethylene glycol 50/50 mix	10.6 quarts
Transmission	GL-4 75W-90	3.2 quarts
Transfer Case	GL-5 75W-90	1.6 quarts
Differential	GL-5 80W-90	3.0 quarts front/3.3 rear
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	As needed

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Fuel filter, spark plugs	Replace fuel filter; check spark plugs and wires
4WD not engaging	Hubs not locked, vacuum lines	Lock hubs manually; check 4WD vacuum system
Overheating	Coolant level, thermostat	Check coolant; replace thermostat if stuck
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace brake rotors
Oil consumption	Valve seals, piston rings	Check for leaks; compression test engine

Note: Always diagnose completely before replacing parts.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 2.4L 22R-E I4, 116 hp @ 4,800 rpm, 140 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual W56, 4-speed automatic optional
Suspension: Front: torsion bars; Rear: leaf springs
Brakes: Front disc, rear drum with vacuum booster
Wheels: 15x6 steel wheels
Tires: P225/75R15
Dimensions: Length: 174.6", Width: 66.5", Height: 66.9"
Weight: 3,585 lbs curb weight

Warranty Information

Basic Warranty: 36 months/36,000 miles. Powertrain: 60 months/60,000 miles. Corrosion Perforation: 60 months/unlimited miles. Contact your Toyota dealer for warranty claims. Keep all maintenance records for warranty verification.

Service: Contact authorized Toyota dealership or call 1-800-331-4331 for assistance.