Buying 4Runner $800 need some help

[[iV]Kermit]

I'm about to buy a 4Runner for about $800 off some farmer. It needs some minor body repair, interior, moon roof crack in glass, power windows don't work (any of them!) and A/C out. Other than that 10,000 on a V6 rebuilt engine that roars like a lion and a fresh set of tires. This guy is pratically giving this thing away.

But I'll need help from you guys. Especially with the A/C should I take it to a mechanic or fudge around with it myself? Same with power windows, he said he tried to fix them but couldn't something about needed new switches maybe.

Any thoughts?

[Brian R.]

What year is the vehicle?

A/C sounds like it may be low on freon. Try recharging the system with a can of freon and see if it starts to work. IF so, fill it up with freon and some oil. If not, check the fuses for both the A/C and the windows.

[[iV]Kermit]

I'm going to pick it up in about 2 weeks. I'll get back to you on the fuses and the A/C.

If it looses freon as fast as I put it in (a leak) then what would you recommend?

[Brian R.]

Find the leak with dye in the freon. Leaks from the compressor or evaporator? Bad news. Leaks from a fitting? Good news. Tighten or replace the fitting.

What year is the vehicle?

[[iV]Kermit]

87 or 88. Not exactly sure yet.

How do you find leaks?

[Brian R.]

In your year vehicle, you have to bring it to a certified air conditioning mechanic and have him test it and fill it with freon after fixing the leak. Your truck has a R-12 system and you can't legally buy this refrigerant to fill it.

You find it buy putting a dye in the system and finding out where the dye comes out. Usually, they use a fluorescent oil.