I owned a 04' SR5 (v6) and now have a 14' trail, and I am completely happy that we upgraded. I do think it feels maybe slightly slower off the line, but other than that it seems very similar if not better in most instances. I would attribute this to tranny tuning more than the engine itself.
We recently did a 2000 mile trip to So-Cal and back and got 21.5-22.5 the entire time with 3 adults and 2 kids and a packed full cargo area. I did remove the roof basket, but did not drive very conservatively. Around town it seems we get about 18.
I flat tow a modified YJ with a short bed F250 and it is comfortable to drive, however that much weight behind a 4runner would be slightly scary to me, seems the wrangler would push the 4runner around if conditions where not just right. If the JK is a stock height or close to it would probably...
Avoid Moab in July, the best time to go there is in the fall IMO. The San Juan Skyway is were you want to be. I would recommend Ophir pass for an easy fun and very scenic trail. The drive to Animas Forks is super nice out of Silverton via California pas, and if you are feeling more adventurous...
As an experiment I Plasti Dipped the chrome exhaust tip. Took it on a 500 mile road trip this weekend and it really added a ton of HP and the fuel mileage went up. :p
its dirty now but you get the idea.
I'll chime in here since I asked the question originally. The front piece is pretty simple to remove. 13 clips on the back side that can be accessed from the bottom and after removal of the radiator cover.
There is a write up on its removal on here.
The rear is another story and it seems...