I've had a nearly bone stock 2004 V6 limited for the last 6 years and absolutely love it.... and have lurked here for awhile admiring everyone's builds! Now has 150k miles of adventure around the country on it!

In any event... I'm looking to tow a 2500lb dry trailer around the US for nearly a year with some light offroading needed when I drop my rolling home places. I'm thinking my 04 V6 with the 4 speed isn't going to like dragging even a small travel trailer fulltime even if I get some fresh suspension, airbags, and a transmission cooler.

I've found and 06 V8 with a Toytec lift that looks clean with 100k miles and seems to run great at around $20k. Any thoughts? Should I just give it a shot with the V6? I already have a WDH. Trailer has brakes. Or should I go for the slick looking newer model with more torque to drag 2500lbs around?

Thanks,
Steve

04 with the 4 speed will tow 5000 pounds as from the manufacture specs. I've towed around 4000 pounds with trailer brakes and it performed well. I have a 07 with the 5 speed. Add a tranny cooler, airbags and replace your shocks (if they haven't been replaced recently). I think it'll be fine. Unless you want to upgrade to a V8. While both engines are reliable in the 4Runner I feel the v6 an edge from what I've read on this forum.

It honestly comes down to what you want and what you feel comfortable with.

*Note: there are differences in the v8 frame And hitch for the vehicle to be able to tow the extra 2200 pounds*

My .02


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I wouldn't pay 20k for a 4Runner w 100k personally.



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The V6 can handle the trailer you're pulling.

You'll feel it going up some steep climbs but you mentioned trailer brakes so that'll help when you need to slow down.

I'd be fine with it if it was my rig.

Unless you have the money to waste and an itch for wanting a different truck.

You will be fine with the v6 I tow a 25ft airstream, the V8 has slightly more power but the debates on v6 vs v8 on here are ridiculous neither of them are great at towing if you actually want to tow something buy a 3/4 or 1 ton truck the extra (roughly) 20hp and 35ft lbs are not going to help espescially when you take in to account you will now be permanently in 4wd. Also that price is pretty out there, when I was looking, most 06-09 limited v8's with around 70k in mint condition were going for aroun 17-19, also having a lift etc usually does not add value. Also there is no difference in the V8 frame, the only difference is the v8 came with a frame rail mount weight distribution hitch as an option and it bolts right on to the v6 (I have one on mine)

The V8 will tow up to 7400 pounds. The load you're suggesting it won't even notice. It's got 305 ft lbs of torque vs 266 for the V6.

as they have said above, the v6 will pull that weight.

however, and this is just a guess, the v8 will pull that weight, while getting slightly better mileage. as it wont be working nearly as hard. I expect the v6 would be in the low double digits, maybe even single digits if there are a lot of hills...

so, if you are talking long term, it will use less fuel. it may not matter, and you will likely never recover the cost of the vehicle in fuel savings. but it may mean a few less fuel stops.

also, $20k is too much for that rig..

I think a v8 would be a better choice. I'm not sure about your v6 but my manual says I cannot use a weight distribution hitch. However with that said I haul a 3000 pound popup camper with my 4runner without any issues. I only use a sway bar. I'm sure the v6 can handle it, but you will be feeling it.

There's and '06 SR5 V8 for sale in PA for 17,995. Only 51,000 miles.

these are sweet trucks, but i seriously can't fathom spending $20k for a 2006 with 100k on it....has the timing belt and ALL other service been done?