92 4runner pre-purchase advice

Hey there,

I'm about to buy my first 4x4, and I'm looking at a 92 4Runner. I just had a pre-purchase inspection done, and the garage found some problems with the steering and suspension.

I'm looking for some advice about how much this type of repair might cost, and whether this sounds like it could be a bad purchase.
- new idler arm
- new pitman arm
- replace inner and outer tie rods (they're worn.)
- front wheel bearings are loose. (replace?)
- they think it could also have steering box problems, but can't tell while that stuff is wonky.

The front brakes are also pretty worn, so I'd change those at the same time if I was doing the work. (Pads and left rotor.)

The guy at the garage guessed this might run about $1500-$2000 CDN (wild guess), but someone else there who was more into 4x4's said it could end up running higher.

Am I walking into a money pit?

The guy wants $6K CDN for the truck, it's otherwise in really great shape. But with these "instant" repairs it's going to run $8K. Is that worth it?

Thanks in advance if anyone can help...

Oh yeah, he said the front cover on the engine is leaking a tiny bit of oil too. Suggested shampoo to see how bad it really is. Any idea how big a repair on that is on these trucks?

I wouldn't pay more than $3000 USD. Too many obvious problems. You won't find out about the hidden ones before you own it.