1986 Tercel SR5 4WD wagon, Gold

[kenren]

Here's the Craigslist link - there are many photos there, more available on request:

http://delaware.craigslist.org/cto/4750238916.html

I've had this 1986 Toyota Tercel SR5 4WD wagon for about 15 years but haven't driven it for probably 8 or more. When I parked it, it ran rough; I was told that the carburetor needed rebuilding. I had another car and never got around to fixing the SR5, and it has sat in my carport, out of the elements and drained of gas, since then. Battery is dead and I have not made any attempt to start the car or turn over the engine. Mileage is 172,516.

The good stuff: Interior is very clean, with replacement seat covers in a period-appropriate fabric, no tears in the headliner or cracks in the plastic. The body is mostly straight, with a couple of dents and spots of surface rust (see pics). Four wheel drive worked great when I last used it, and 5-speed shifted smoothly. Sun roof (and motor) also worked well when it was last used. If you know these cars, you know that the low range 4wd will get you almost anywhere in almost any weather. The full sized spare under the floor has never touched road. Another bonus is a low-mileage 20 watt Yamaha tuner/cassette player (complete with fake locking cover). I'll include a Chilton repair manual and a few spares (spare rear compartment supports and folding lid, headlight, wiper blades. . .)

The bad stuff: Passenger door lock is jammed and the door won't open - it seems the inside handle isn't engaging but I haven't removed the door panel to investigate. The carb needs rebuilding or replacement with a Weber. The muffler is detached from the tailpipe (but still hanging) and is unlikely to be of any use. Tires are dry as toast and only a couple hold air. Bring a tow rig or a trailer, or a couple of wheels.

I haven't tried to start or move the car and make no claims about running condition. But these cars are simple, nearly bulletproof, run practically forever, and I think with a bit of work, you can have an inexpensive winter warrior and a safe, quirky runabout to serve as a second car, high-ceilinged stuff hauler, or a kid car.

Call, text or email with any questions or to arrange to see it. I may be able to send specific area photos if needed.

Thanks for looking!

[ARCHINSTL]

Looks pretty good for an East Coast (aka, Salt Coast) car!
Are you still in DE?
Tom M.

[dlb]

sounds fair, and a nice honest ad. good luck with the sale. hopefully someone grabs and resurrects the wee beastie.

[kenren]

Thanks for the feedback - a young dad from lower DE bought "Golden Annie" today. They brought a new battery, and it turned over (and the electric sun roof worked!). He has a brother in law with a trailer, and that proved to be essential (not to mention Dad's expert help). I "only" had 115,000 miles with this car but many happy memories - and it NEVER let me down. I'm sure it will be happier in it's slightly warmer climate. Happy motoring to all.

Ken

[keith]

I hope you told him about this site. Lots of good info and comraderie here.

[kenren]

I hope you told him about this site. Lots of good info and comraderie here.

Both Alex and his Dad were aware of the site, you will likely see him checking in looking for parts upgrades, etc.