Recent content by bmanning

I haven't gotten that far in the planning...was hoping that some local trail vets would chime in w/ thoughts & ideas. I have the AZ atlas I mentioned, & I have a book called 'Arizona Backroads & 4-wheel drive trails' that lists a ton within a few hours drive of Phoenix/Scottsdale. I know there...

Hey everybody... I just moved to Scottsdale from NJ a few months ago, and haven't yet had my '97 SR5 (BFG AT's, Bilsteins) on any local or semi-local trails out here yet :mad: I work Saturdays- I sell trucks at AutoNow AZ (liftedtrucks.com) - but I'd love to try to put together a trail run on...

What year is your 4Runner? I assume you bought a used one since this is the 3rd gen section? A lot of time-consuming & potentially confusing re-wiring may be needed; unless you enjoy this kinda thing and get a sense of accomplishment for it, I'd get it to a shop or dealer and prepare for a...

Hey Guys/Gals... I am seriously thinking of treating myself to a supercharger for my 1997 4Runner SR5 (5VZ-FE 3.4L). I know it'll be expensive but I'm planning on keeping the truck a long time, at least 3+ more years, so I just about have myself talked into it. My question is: is my stock...

Try edmunds.com or msn.com "autos" section for specs...

Another vote for Bilsteins... Yes, they ride a bit stiffer, but they are virtually unbreakable (very popular & widely used in off-road racing), last years on top of years, and enhance handling/cornering control.

I posted my reply before I saw the link by feloniusQ... Cleaning the throttle body can only help, and it's great advice. If that doesn't do the trick, then get those engine and transmission mounts checked. BManning

1st thing: check (or have checked) your engine & transmission mounts... A broken or loose mount will make the exact symptoms you've described... BManning

Gears binding is never a good thing... Part-time 4x4 is just what the name implies: part time. There's no center diff to allow the front & rear driveshafts to turn at different speeds...hence the grabbing (binding) you're feeling when turning. I never use mine unless there will be wheelspin...

I second the thought on the tires; not only is tire type important (LT vs. P-rated) but as tires age and lose their tread compound, they stiffen and don't provide nearly as much ride comfort. If the tires you have are LT-rated and/or older with high mileage, new tires would make a world of...

I've been experiment with tires pressures lately as well; I run LT265/70R16 (stock size) BFG All-Terrain TA/KO's on my '97 SR5 and like the poster, I heard/read somewhere that lower pressures can be bad news on LT tires, which are designed for higher pressures. I'd run 32k with no problems for...

Interestingly, it's only recall associated with 3rd gen 4Runners- which speaks volumes about their general quality- but if I'm you, I'd ask them for a complete explanation of the recall and why they claim it only affects 2wd 4runners (what, exactly, are the differences in the rear suspensions...

Just checked my alldata.com DIY account for recall info, and it states that loading the vehicle at close to gross rear axle weight and close to GVW, in combination with certain severe manuevers, can can loss of directional stability. It also says that 4x4s are not affected due to "different...

Good advice, bflooks. I knew of the existence of the breather, but I guess I hadn't really stopped and thought about its importance, and its potential to cause blown seals if uncared for. I was set to replace the seals based only on the fact that this set has 83k; now, I think I'll just check...

I shouldn't have to ask this, but I do: What's the proper technique for waxing? I baby my green 97 mechanically, but I'm guilty of driving her through the car wash regularly instead of spending 2 hours in the driveway every Saturday doing it by hand. If you want to throw in some good advice...