Tune ups

It is always a good idea to tune up a newly acquired used vehicle.

As I mentioned in the first post; a stock well maintained 4runner will average 18/20+ (city/hwy) MPGs. If you are seeing numbers below that, there are lots of things you can do to fix it!

To start, take a look at this thread: 3rd Gen FAQ, Tutorials, & Documentation Reference - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum
It contains lots of write-ups on maintenance related tasks.


Check Engine codes:
The first step to addressing poor mileage is to make sure you dont have any parts that you know are not working properly. Any codes that have anything to do with the intake, engine, exhaust, and drivetrain can cause bad mileage.

Here is a database of all Toyota Engine codes: Toyota OBD-II Trouble Codes
You can get your codes read at most auto parts stores for free..

-----------------------------------------

Reset EFI relay:
When you buy a used vehicle, you want to reset the EFI relay. Its a trade secret among used auto dealers. The reason for this is the EFI map that the vehicle has set to work with its past driver. When you reset this map, the vehicle forgets how the old driver used to drive and learns how you drive. It picks up on how you accelerate, how you cruise, etc and maps the fuel injection to follow. It takes about 1 tank of gas for it to establish a new EFI map. Doing this will not always net an MPG gain, but it will make the vehicle feel more peppy. Even if you don't reset the EFI relay, the vehicle is always adjusting it's EFI map and will eventually get used to you, but resetting it is a lot more effective.

It is also smart to do this whenever you significantly change anything in the drivetrain, such as a new filter, cleaning intake components, add cold air intake, bigger tires, exhaust system, etc..

To do this, find the largest of the EFI relays in the fuse block on the drivers side of the engine bay. With the battery still connected, remove this relay for 30 minutes then re-install. Done.

-------------------------------

Air Filter:
The easiest way to see some increased MPGs is to replace the Air filter. A clogged air filter can cause significant power and efficiency losses. When you go to decide which one to buy, do your research. Oiled vs Dry filters is the main point you want to look at. The best brands for air filters are OEM (toyota), TRD, aFe, Amsoil, and K&N.

----------------------------------------------------

Clean MAF/ TB:
Another quick and easy way to see improved MPGs is to clean the Throttle Body and Mass Air Flow Sensor. This should be done every oil change. These components are known to collect some gunk on them and not work as well as they should. Mainly the throttle body and the carbon it attracts. A dirty MAF/TB is known to affect MPGs by as much as 25%.
4Runners.org - Cleaning Your Throttle Body and MAF


----------------------------------------------------------------

SeaFoam:
Seafoam is a pure petroleum product that cleans injectors, valves, and nearly every part of an internal combustion engine. You put seafoam in the crankcase a few hundred miles before an oil change. You also use it in the gas tank and spray it into the intake plenum to clean the combustion side of the engine. After a treatment, the engine is cleared of all of the carbon build-up on the internals of the engine. Despite what the seafoam website says, this process is known to sometimes clear out enough gunk to foul O2 sensors and spark plugs, so be prepared to replace those units. (Do seafoam treatment as on of the 1st steps in a tune up).
Sea Foam | Motor Treatment | General Content - Motor Treatment
Seafoam? - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum
You've been doing it wrong. Seafoam injection port
The process is accompanied by an entertaining cloud of smoke for a few mintues, youtube it.

-----------------------------------------------------

PCV Valve:
Or "Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve" vents excess pressure inside the crackcase and allows for less resistance in the operation of the motor.

PCV Valves go bad every 5 years or so. A bad one can cause a 2-3 mpg loss.

Replacing takes literally 5 minutes, pull the old one from the top of the engine then use some pliers and remove the gromet. Replace in reverse order and go. You should reset your EFI while doing this for best results.

Part Numbers:
PCV Valve: 12204-62010
PCV Grommet: 90480-18001
Less than $15 total from the dealership.

PCV Valve
PCV Valve replacment


-----------------------------------------------------

O2 Sensor:
The most common reason people see really bad MPGs (<15mpg) is due to a faulty upstream O2 sensor. Most of the time it will throw a code if its bad, but sometimes it won't..
You can find your O2 sensor's part number here:
Oxygen / AFR Sensors - Underdog Racing Development

And get your part from amazon for the best prices.

----------------------------------------------------------

Spark Plugs & Wires:
With 4runners, you can't just buy any plug that "fits". The only plugs that work on the 3.4L v6 engines are Dual ground plugs.

You will want to only use these plugs, any of these will do:
NGK BKR5EKB-11
OEM Toyota #90919-01192 Made by Denso
Denso #K16TR11

For the Wires, you can either get the Bosch 09444 or you can get the NGK 4412. Both sets are identical except for the NGK wires are blue on the outside, adds a nice touch if you like that kind of flair.
Here is a write-up on changing the plugs: 4Runners.org - Changing Your Spark Plugs

-------------------------------------------------------------

Oil Change:
An oil and filter change is always a good thing! You want 5W-30 Motor oil and a new filter. OEM Toyota is commonly regarded as the BEST filter, the part number is 90915-YZZD1.
4Runners.org - Changing Your Oil

------------------------------------------------------------------

Fuel Filter:
Although Toyota says the Fuel filter is a "lifetime part", it really isn't. After 100k miles it gets pretty gunked up. Don't make the truck work so hard to feed itself, replace that filter!
Part number: 23300‑62030
5VZ V6 4runner fuel filter write up with pics


-------------------------------------------------------------

Monitor Driving habits:
Driving habits can have a huge effect on mileage. When you use a device that enables you to see average and instantaneous fuel mileage, you can increase fuel economy by simply driving more efficiently. Average mileage is simply total distance driven divided by gallons used. Instantaneous mileage is what your fuel economy is RIGHT THIS SECOND! For example, accelerating will display about 5 mpgs on the screen, while coasting can give 50+ mpgs. It all averages out though, so seeing instantaneous mileage and knowing how to coast more and accelerate less will net higher average fuel economy.

There are a few devices us 4runner guys use to monitor MPGs..
All of these can read mpgs, display most engine temps and other readings, read & clear engine codes, etc..
Scangauge II - $160 - Most low profile, most popular, endless mounting options, It CAN display trans temp, displays 4 pieces of info at a time, performance features.
UltraGauge - $70 - Best looking, CANNOT display trans temp, displays up to 6 pieces of info at a time, more customizable.
Aeroforce Interceptor - $250 - Mounts in any standard gauge pod, CAN display trans temp, looks neat.
*Trans temp can only be displayed on 99-02 4runner, the 96-98 cannot display trans temp no matter which unit you choose.

More info: Scangauge II vs. Ultra-Gauge: First impressions, where did you mount your scangauge? (pics request), Scan Gauge II Codes..New stuff.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Lube Driveshaft:
A well oiled machine includes a well lubed driveshaft. Recommended every few oil changes.
4Runners.org - Lubing Your Driveshaft

-------------------------------------------------------------------

The MYTH about throttle body spacers!
Many people think adding a throttle body spacer will increase power, well it doesn't. These come from the days of Carburetors, where the spacer changed the dynamics of how the Carburetor operated. However, these DO NOT WORK ON FUEL INJECTED ENGINES! Many people have dyno tested and found the spacers do absolutely nothing.
You can google many instances where this has been recorded.

So please, do not waste $100 on a useless piece of metal.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

The MYTH about performance chips!
Many people think adding a performance tuning chip will increase power and mileage, well it doesn't. These come from the world of forced induction, big time engine mods and diesel engines, where the chips change intake timing, fuel trim, etc to get the engine to have the right air/fuel ratio throughout the power band. However, these DO NOT WORK ON STOCK, NATURALLY ASPIRATED ENGINES! the stock fuel trim is already set up to optimize power and mileage. Changing anything just takes away from those things.
You can google many instances where this has been recorded.

So please, do not waste $100+ on a useless piece of plastic.





===========================================
===========================================

Basic Starter Mods




LED Interior conversion.

Many drivers don't like the green color of the interior lights, that can be fixed. The lights behind the dash, center console, key ring, map lights, and dome lights can all be changed

For example:



LED Dash lights FAQs
you CAN change the color of your clock






================================================== ========



-Deckplate:
The Deckplate mod uses a 4 inch hole in the air box, before the filter of course. You fill in the hole with a Marine Deckplate. When the cap to the Deckplate is on, it re-seals the air box to stock conditions. When the cap is off, it opens the air box to allow air a more unrestricted route to the intake. While performance gains are minimal at best, the intake sound is slightly louder and the throttle response is quicker. Many users noticed slightly increase fuel economy.
The Deckplate Mod - YotaTech Forums
This mod takes about 30 minutes to complete and costs about $10.



-Intake Silencer Removal (ISR):
In line with the air filter and engine intake is a resonating silencing chamber. This silences the intake noise and creates resistance for air flow in the intake system. By removing the resonator and replacing it with a strait pipe, you decrease air flow resistance and increase throttle response and intake efficiency even more. Intake noise is also increased quite a bit.

Note: When I say the ISR increases intake noise, I AM SERIOUS. Many people find it to be too loud and annoying. But if that is what you want, go for it.

This mod also takes less than 30 minutes and costs less than $20.

1996-2001 4Runner ISR
2002 4Runner ISR
(The intake plenum is a little different on the 2002’s)

When both of these mods are combined, it is similar to the effects of a Cold Air Intake system, but with the advantage that you can reseal the intake with the deckplate if you encounter water crossings and such.
You also get faster throttle response and a very beefy throttle noise .




----------------------------------------


-Cup Holder Mod:
As discussed earlier, the center consoles on the earlier 3rd gens didn’t have cup holders. A console swap is an easy fix to this.
Cup Holder Mod - Center Console Upgrade


------------------------------------------

-Rear Differential Breather Mod.
A breather plug on the differential is necessary to accommodate changes in pressure due to temperature and altitude. If, however, you were to drive through a river and get water in the diff through the plug, that could be bad. So to avoid this you need to extend the breather plug up higher on the vehicle. The front diff and transfer case already have extended breathers from the factory, but for some reason the rear axle does not.
Rear Differential Breather Mod - YotaTech Forums
This mod also takes less than 30 minutes and costs less than $20.


---------------------------------------------


- Plasti-Dip Emblems/Trim/Wheels:
Plasti-Dip is a rubberized coating that sprays on like regular spray paint, but it can be peeled right back off when it dries. To plasti-dip your emblems, just mask off an area around the emblem, spray the whole area, then peel the paint off from the body as it cuts off at the emblems and leaves them black.
DIY - Matte Black Emblems - Plastidip, no emblem removal required! - Club Lexus Forums
how'd you do blackout your emblems?
Plasti-Dipped!





================================================== =



Biggest tire with 'stock' suspension?
The general theory is that if you cannot clear a given tire with stock suspension, you won't clear it with a lifted suspension either. This is because the lifted suspension still moves and will still cycle through the range of the stock suspension.

Stock: 31" tire (265/70-R16)

Anything larger than a 32" tire will require trimming: 265/75-R16 OR 265/70-R17


It is "possible" to fit even a 35" tire to stock suspension, but it will require EXTENSIVE trimming and fender/firewall tubing.
Fitting 35" tires at any suspension height


Here is a Tire size calculator to determine how far off the speedometer will be with new tires. Tire Size Calculator - Compare Tire Sizes





================================================== ==========

================================================== ==========

================================================== ==========




TRD Supercharger:

One highly sought after option for these trucks is the TRD Supercharger!
There are 2 different versions of the TRD supercharger for the 3.4L V6.

-It is important to note that this was a dealer option, meaning that you could not order a 4runner from the factory with the TRD supercharger in any option package. You just had to buy one after you got the 4runner and the dealer installed it.

Both the 1st and 2nd gen superchargers are M62 superchargers made by Magnuson and produce the exact same power increases. The only differences between them are appearances and ease of maintenance. The first page I would recommend you read is this one: TRD Supercharger Here, gadget (who is a pioneer of TRD superchargers and performance modifications) explains what superchargers are, how they work, and the differences between the 2 generations.

The 1st Generation TRD supercharger.

Courtesy of Gadget .

The 2nd (aka 4th) Generation TRD supercharger.

Courtesy of Gadget .


Basic specs:
Gains with only supercharger (no fuel mods)
Courtesy of Ultimate Yota.


---------

Known Issues:

There are a few documented issues with the superchargers. Most of which arise due to lack of supporting fuel mods.
An in-depth list can be found here: UltimateYota.com

Things such as high gear/low rpms pinging, high rpm lean out, automatic transmission wear.

These symptoms are cured with URD's 7th injector kit. It helps to supply extra fuel when needed when the stock system cannot keep up with how much air is being pumped in. The tuning computer and two-step cooler spark plugs included with the kit helps by ret@rding timing more than the stock computer is capable of doing. This kit also adds top end power becuase it helps to meet this needs.
Underdog Racing Development


If you do not feel a need for this extra injector and tuning computer, at least get two-step cooler spark plugs to help with proper timing.
Denso Iridium IK22 are the ones you want.

-------------------

Issues that are not covered there are as follows:

Belt slippage
There are two types of Tensioners that come with the TRD superchargers, they are interchangeable. with the old-style static tensioner you can experience belt slippage when you really step on the pedal.

-The Static tensioner is just a plate with a pulley on it, you manage the belt tension with the alternator tensioner bolt.

-The Dynamic tensioner is a spring loaded arm with a pulley on it that takes care of the belt tension itself.

The dynamic tensioner can by found for around $280, the part number is: PTR29-60032.


---

Supercharger wear

The bearings in the nose cone of the supercharger are only rated to last about 100k miles. This is one area where the 2nd gen supercharger really shows its advantages.

-The 1st gen unit must be taken off and either sent in to Magnuson to be rebuilt (usually $500+) or rebuilt at home if you have the right tools. DIY rebuilds can be done for around $200 with a lot of elbow grease.

Here is a detailed thread of a full rebuild of a first gen unit by Chris360hawks: TRD Supercharger 1st Gen (Gray Top)/Eaton M62 Complete Rebuild- Write Up
Here is a thread where member Coinball rebuilt his 1st gen unit: Project "put a blower on my hoopty" is a go!

-The 2nd (4th) gen unit can be rebuilt in your garage while its still on the vehicle. To do so you need the TRD Nose cone kit (PN: PTR29-35042) it comes with a new nose cone with the bearing already pressed in and a bottle of new supercharger oil and some gasket sealant.

Here is a thread that really shows how that is done: 3.4 Supercharger Nose-Drive Replacement - CustomTacos.com Forum


-------

Broken Bypass valves

The bypass valves on the 2nd gen units are known to fail and/or break the rivets off. Also the rubber inside them can dryout and crack which leads to boost leakage.
Replacements are under $100.

Available through LCE performance: Supercharger Accessories - 5VZ TRD Bypass Valve



================================================== ==========


Supercharger Performance upgrades

Smaller Pulley
URD sells an assortment of smaller sized pullies. It is recommended that you have sufficient fuel modifications to support the increased amount of air being pumped in by smaller pullies. Underdog Racing Development

-Stock is 2.37" and the truck runs at about 7 psi

-URD 2.2" increases max boost by 1.5-2 psi over stock. This is the most common pulley to add.

-URD 2.1" increases max boost by 3.5-4 psi over stock. Tuning is highly recommended with a pulley this small.

*Note that the supercharger is known to handle about 15 max, so be careful.

-----

Methanol Injection:

Some users choose to add methanol injection instead of or in addition to extra fuel injectors. Methanol injection changes the A/F ratio at high throttle to increase power.

Here is the main thread Methanol users go to start out:
Texas_Ace's Cheap DIY Meth/Water Injection kit Writeup! Get 10hp+ for under $150! - YotaTech Forums

Pros:
-inexpensive
-Fairly simple to install

Cons:
-Have to refill methanol tank occasionally
-In-Depth Tuning is pretty much required

-----

Cooler thermostat
The stock thermostat is rated at 180* F and keeps the engine around 193-195*. However, The stock thermostat is known to be unable to keep the engine in the optimum range of temperatures with a supercharger. With a supercharger, you will notice temps above 200* very often.

Stant 14077 is a 170* thermostat and will maintain a cool engine despite whatever high performance runs you are doing on the supercharger. With a supercharger, expect to see temps of 185-190*

The TRD thermostat is a 160* and many people recommend running this ONLY if you do a very accurate tune and are trying for maximum performance. Be cautious with this one. You will often see the engine running around 175-180*.

-------

Performance Headers

headers are the manifolds that handle the exhaust gasses from the engine. The stock headers are not known to be very efficient. Performance headers can increase power by approximately 10-15hp.

Brands of performance headers for these vehicles are:
-TRD
-Doug Thorley
-OBX


-----

High Flow Exhaust

Any high flow muffler is a good idea to match the increased volume of air going through the engine. It is also beneficial to add a high flow Catalytic converter, although doing this will trigger an O2 sensor code. So if you decide on a high flow CAT, also look into the URD rear O2 sim kit. It will prevent the code.

Underdog Racing Development


More info coming soon..
--------------------------