Thank you for your review/comparison. I found it very helpful. I have a 3rd Gen and always thought the 4th Gen must be better. After reading this thread I'm a little bit more content with what I have. Seems everyone is 3rd Gen side. I'll agree my interior is still in great condition @ 150k.
FYI - for what its worth...
98 4runner sr5 w/ 136k
both right & left rear axle inner & outer seals & bearings & tone wheel - $1,400 at independent garage in NNJ
Wedging glass
I never got it to be fully seated. I spent alot of time trying to get it to fully seat, but failed. It has worked perfectly since though. The window fully closes and opens. 1+ years and still going.
Window seating
I didn't know there was a special technique. I just wedged them as tight as I could. The tailgate window has been working fine for over a year now. The old bracket was totally rusted and actually fell off (I only replaced one side as the other side was still OK). I used...
Gas mileage
95/v6/auto/31's/108k/4x4
I'm getting 13-14 mpg, mixed driving (drive once a week except in winter)
It seems to run fine. EPA rating is 12/15 (corrected).
Maybe I'll try the new air & fuel filter, spark plug thing.