JacksonRally
Adventurer
Baby not due til February but once I get started on a new vehicle adventure I dont stop til I have what I'm looking for 
On the hunt for a 4th generation 4Runner
- Thread starter JacksonRally
- Start date
olsen_karl
Adventurer
Yes, all V6 4x4s have center diff lock. All 4wd models have a Torsen center diff (AWD), which was a big deal to me, for snow usage.
Reportedly, the V8 doesn't get much worse mpg than the V6. V8 has a timing belt, V6 has a chain. Oil changes on the 6 are easier (filter location).
Consider the Lexus GX too, if you want the V8.
chmura
Adventurer
I have a 2009 4runner Trail Edition model with the V6. Very capable rig, its basically an FJ Cruiser in 4runner disguise. I like the water resistant seats (same as FJ Cruiser). I am getting 18mpg with 255/75/17 tires. I went skinny to retain decent MPG. Took it to Moab a Canyon Lands early this year and she performed flawlessly.
I would get the newest 4th gen possible. I like the updated look of the 2006+ models with projected headlights, led tails, more curved fender flares, etc..
I would get the newest 4th gen possible. I like the updated look of the 2006+ models with projected headlights, led tails, more curved fender flares, etc..
JacksonRally
Adventurer
Your build thread had alot to do with our decision on purchasing a 4 runner. It's everything we are looking for. Great rig!
chmura
Adventurer
Thank you! If you want a Trail Edition look on Auto Trader. They are not impossible to find. You might have to travel out of state to buy one (thats what I did). Many dealers online do not even mention Trail Edition in their ads, they simple do not know what a TE is so they just label them as an SR5. So you have to look at every single 2009 4runner 4x4 ad and see which picture corresponds to the Trail Edition model. Big hint is the 16 inch FJC old style rims.
Also the V6 has plenty of power for bigger tires and other upgrades.
JacksonRally
Adventurer
Good to know. I am already setting search radius to 500 miles, so out of state pickup is no problem. But it seems none of the searchs I am doing have the option to seek out a TE.
chmura
Adventurer
I did a very quick search and I found a really clean one in California with 40k miles, Toyota Certified listed for $29k.
http://www.dublintoyota.com/certifi...ublin-CA-52c202870a0a006501b5cb7b178ab1ba.htm
California vehicles tend to sell harder than any other states so its a little pricey.
Last edited:
JacksonRally
Adventurer
Wow that is a nice Trail Edition. If thats what they are going for then thats over my budget by 8k. But it sure is nice.
All I hear is good things about 4 Runners in general. I may have to get a higher mileage 4 Runner to stay within budget but the response has been great as far as reliability.
All I hear is good things about 4 Runners in general. I may have to get a higher mileage 4 Runner to stay within budget but the response has been great as far as reliability.
surlydiesel
Adventurer
I've said this before in other threads but I would most certainly get a V8 4runner. For a 1mpg penalty, I think the extra ponies would pay off. If you want to tow, if you need to pass on the highway, low end low range grunt and for my wife, the AWD is key. We currently have a Jeep GC but if that went away, I would see about a 4runner with the V8.
Yes the timing belt vs. Chain is a key piece but that is the only drawback in my book. I would put on suspension and drivetrain parts as I found I needed them as I've done with my other trucks. Buy something, use it and modify to your taste. Right now, V8's have a gas guzzler stigma, so it should work to your advantage.
I've thought about the Lexus but I find even getting parts for them are more money and the buy in is more because of it's name. I'd get a Trail before I'd get the Lexus...
Cheers,
jorge
Yes the timing belt vs. Chain is a key piece but that is the only drawback in my book. I would put on suspension and drivetrain parts as I found I needed them as I've done with my other trucks. Buy something, use it and modify to your taste. Right now, V8's have a gas guzzler stigma, so it should work to your advantage.
I've thought about the Lexus but I find even getting parts for them are more money and the buy in is more because of it's name. I'd get a Trail before I'd get the Lexus...
Cheers,
jorge
Lecoq
Explorer
Just buy mine and be 75% done with it
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/116732-FS-2005-Toyota-4Runner-Limited
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/116732-FS-2005-Toyota-4Runner-Limited
JacksonRally
Adventurer
I've been throwing around some offers to a few dealers. One in San Diego and one in Anaheim, both are V8's. It seems like as soon as we hit the 4th email then nothing. Really!!! Nobody wants to "reel" me in. Ill be in the Anaheim area tomorrow so I may stop buy. I like the one in Anaheim better any ways and it is only 64k miles asking $18,9xx. That is right at my price.
JacksonRally
Adventurer
Just buy mine and be 75% done with it
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/116732-FS-2005-Toyota-4Runner-Limited
I've read your build thread a few times. I like to do all the dirty work my self. Im sure it will sell quick though.
JacksonRally
Adventurer
All righty, I think we have settled on a V8! Going to look at one tomorrow
Now I have a question that may be out in left field. If I were to install locking hubs (not even sure they exist for this model, but I have 4 aisin hubs lying around) on the front could I lock the center diff and drive in rear wheel drive?
Now I have a question that may be out in left field. If I were to install locking hubs (not even sure they exist for this model, but I have 4 aisin hubs lying around) on the front could I lock the center diff and drive in rear wheel drive?
JacksonRally
Adventurer
Well I had to leave the dealership but my wife is bringing home a 06 V8 SR5!!