1998 Toyota Hilux Surf, SSR-X Limited

arcoal Grey, this super Surf is set off by a factory spare tire swingarm, an optional OEM rear spoiler, and sleek Terzo crossbars. The cosmetics are so cool, this could be a Japanese Ski Patrol vehicle, and save for a few spots of paint fade and a couple rock chips here and there, the cosmetics are in great shape overall. Easy to service like a USDM variant, this gasoline powered Surf has it all, and at this point, this Japanese Classic only needs a new owner! The interior is in good shape, and Toyota really knew how to design a cockpit to withstand the test of time. The Limited charcoal cloth upholstery is in good shape overall, which is a rare find on any 25 year old sport-utility. In fact, the only gripe we have is with some bolster wear on the driver’s bucket. The same can be said for the condition of the dash, which has resisted peeling, fading, or UV distortion, and safety conscious occupants benefit from dual SRS airbags up front for a bit of extra peace of mind. The center stack is easy to navigate and intuitively designed. A simple to use climate control system sits front and center, pumping out cold A/C and hot heat on command, ideal for those in seasonal climates. There’s also a USDM Boss audio system that pumps in your tunes via Bluetooth connectivity. The driver has access to quite a few comfort options and power amenities. There’s an expansive power moonroof, mounted adjacent to a digital field monitor that displays real-time data on outside conditions. Power windows unfurl with haste, and in true 4Runner fashion the rear glass powers down too. Also operable are power locks and side mirrors. Unique to Japan-market examples, the rear seats recline slightly, and just like our USDM variants, the rear bench can fold flat to stuff in some additional cargo. The headliner is tidy, and the carpets have resisted excessive wear and tear apart from a few light stains. Sleek factory floor mats have been included, and we’ve retained the original owner’s manual and maintenance booklet to preserve this Hilux’s history. Overall, this Surf is clean where it counts, and despite some light cracking atop the steering wheel, we think the next owner will be pleased with the interior condition. Under the hood is one of Toyota’s most dependable truck motors, the 3RZ-FE. Easy and inexpensive to maintain, this 2.7l is a mirror image of engines found stateside, and for additional peace of mind, our trained technicians have already serviced this Surf for the road ahead. A new 12v battery was plopped in to aid ignition, and a new radiator keeps temperatures in check after a fresh coolant flush. We performed a fresh oil and filter service, and replaced the oil pump seal and distributor O-ring to keep your lubricant internal. After some new accessory belts, the RZ runs tip-top. The four-pot is mated to a slick shifting automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels via a selective transfercase. For snow or other loose surfaces, 4WD engages with the push of a button, and low gearing is close by for sticky situations. This Limited Surf even features the optional center locking differential for ultimate off-road versatility. The suspension handles larger road imperfections with ease, and new rear lower control arms were installed to help pass VA state inspection. We did the legwork of performing a full steering rack rebuild, complete with new seals and boots. New inner and outer tie rods were chucked on to make the most of its time in the shop, and a fresh four wheel alignment was performed, of course. Tracking straight as an arrow, this should prolong the life of the freshly installed 31′′ Falken rubber, and take this snow-white superstar to whatever corners of the backcountry it wants to explore.