Thanks for everyone's thoughts. Yes, you have sold me on the 5.7l if I did go with the 2nd generation. The reason I considered the 4.6l was I expected majority of our travels would be with a topper and sleeping platform on weekend trips throughout Vancouver island (we are currently reside for the next 3 years). and with that travel, the gas mileage would be better. But as someone did mention, the resale value, and if I need the power, it will be there, and the savings with gas will be pennies in comparison.
As for going 3/4 ton / 1 ton, no plan for that if I went with a lightweight popup camper. This is manly that this setup has been done for a major overland travel, with zero issues, and I would also feel comfortable with the same setup:
http://www.wanderthewest.com/forum/...milner-with-2014-tundra-driving-to-argentina/
Regardless, the first question has been answered, if I got a 2nd gen tundra, it will spring for the 5.7l. But now I am having second thoughts on the 2nd gen as a 1 gen (2006 tundra) double cab, limited model, just came available for $11,000, which is $8-12,000 cheaper than the 2nd gen. The caveat, it does have 200k miles on it. But the way I am looking at it, with that $10,000 in savings, can pay for a lot of upgrades, repairs, and I would purchase a flippac and build a kitchen in the back and have a solid adventure vehicle. The best part, have money to go on adventures.
So, thinks for everyone advice. I will however be sticking with the tundra. the question: spend the extra money and go with the 2nd gen, or go for a 1st gen, with high mileage and save some money?
and ideally, if it all works out, do this setup for 3 years; wife finishes school, sell truck, and buy a crew cab Provan Tiger and travel for 6 months. But first, need to buy a truck. Traveling with a family of 4, a dog, and camping equipment, in an impreza wagon just not working anymore.