1998 Toyota Hilux Surf, SSR-V

ecent service. Boasting only 116k verified miles, this turbodiesel model is barely broken in, and is turn key ready to roll on a road trip of your choosing. Ideal as a year round hauler, and determined enough to be a full time trail rig, this Toyota does just about everything well. Collectible, capable, and cool, this Surf is about as good as it gets! The cabin is in above-average shape and was clearly cared for in Japan. The dashboard lacks any cracking or fading and houses dual front SRS airbags for some added peace of mind. The driver benefits from a tilt adjustable steering column and adjustable lumbar support to find the ideal driving position. The seats steal the show with their blue confetti highlights. They lack any major rips, stains or tears as well. The rear row 4-way reclines and tumbles forward to fold flat to create a larger cargo area. Power windows, door locks, and mirrors all function and make daily use more enjoyable. The OEM audio works too, so feel free to throw in a cassette and keep on rocking in the free world! Cold A/C is on hand for these last dog days of summer and the heat kicks on rapidly for the winter ahead. If you prefer more natural ventilation the rear glass slides down into the tailgate to improve air flow within the vehicle. The door cards, headliner, and carpets are in fine shape and overall its quite hard to nitpick the cabin. It even includes a rare factory security cargo shade, which keeps valuables stowed in the tailgate away from prying eyes. This SUV is powered by one of Toyotas most legendary turbodiesel engines, the 1KZ-TE. Fresh off a oil and filter service, the engine whirrs to life with the twist of the key thanks to a new 12v battery. New serpentine belts have been installed to keep the electronics properly powered, and a new engine air filter and new fuel filter were taken care of. To keep the oil level on full one of our trained techs replaced the old valve cover gasket with a new one, and replaced the half moon seal for good measure. The four-banger is linked to a stout automatic gearbox that shifts just as it should. It makes good use of the prodigious low end torque and sends power to the rear or both axles through a selective transfercase. To put the power to the ground effectively a new rear pinion seal was installed. For beach and trail use a low range can be engaged and the ground clearance is fantastic. The suspension is predictable on pavement too and soaks up the bumps nicely. ABS is standard and we overhauled the system to give this Surf a new lease on life. New front calipers, lines, pads and rotors were installed so that you can reel this rig in from higher speeds with confidence. The power steering is on point and benefits from new rack bushings and front sway bar links. Grip is top tier thanks to freshly mounted and balanced Falken tires. The new rubber quiets down the road noise, looks killer, and will last for tens of thousands of miles to come.