1st 4runner Buying Advice

[Mikep.]

Hello all, I have decided that I am ready to buy. I know that I want a 4th Gen, with leather, sunroof, and 4wd. I plan to tow with it on ocasion. I have a boat with a 2200lb dry weight not including gear or the trailer. I am looking for any input or advice on what to look for, or what to look out for. I am honestly on the fence between a v6 or a v8. Any input is much appreciated.


TIA

 

[NJshadow93]

V8 will make towing much easier and smoother. It is less strain on the drivetrain and has a built in transmission cooler. Not saying the V6 can't handle it, it should just fine, but if towing is one of the main reasons you're getting it, the torque of the V8 is the better choice.

 

[Mikep.]

I keep the boat in the water throughout the season so I wont be towing it much more than twice a year. Once to drop it, once to store it. Unless I decide to take it somewhere for a getaway. I have read that the towing capacity is the same between the 6 and 8. But, definitely like the idea of having a little extra torque of the v8.

 

[hgill]

Though I never tow anything, i was in a similar predicament last year deciding between the V6 and V8. So without starting another V8 vs. V6 thread, i would say that Im glad I went with the V8. Gas mileage difference is minimal, but to hear that V8 roar as I merge on to the highway is priceless. I do enjoy the extra torque, plus its the last V8 in the 4runner as of now. So kind of a collectable for me .

Plus i feel if i got the V6, I would always think to myself, maybe i should have gone with the V8. Good luck on your search, both engines are great from the tons of threads I have read, so you'll be happy with either option.

 

[lawncegary]

I have read that the towing capacity is the same between the 6 and 8.

 

[zimm]

V8 has a stronger hitch. And if you want leather, easy- search for a Limited V8. I recommend at least 2006 since it has the facelift with LED tail lights and projector headlights. 2005 was the first year of the improved V8. Otherwise the same through 2009.

 

[Mikep.]

There is a 2004 limited v8 in my area. It has 130000 on the clock. I have a budget of only 10k so everything I am seeing has around that mileage. There is also a 2005 sr5 4.0 with a little more miles. They both seem to be in pretty good shape judging from the photos.

 

[JDSupreme]

V8's are 7000lbs towing cap

V6's are 5000lbs

My boat weighs right around 2000lbs with everything and I can def feel it on the back but it pulls very well. I wouldn't want to pull anything more than 3000lbs for peace of mind

My rule is I won't pull anything more than 60% of max tow capacity, on any vehicle

 

[coconutpete]

Hey, JD: I was wondering what type of boat you were pulling, so I put "Lund Alaskan 18V Tiller" into google images and this was image #4 that came up:

 

[JDSupreme]

Hey, JD: I was wondering what type of boat you were pulling, so I put "Lund Alaskan 18V Tiller" into google images and this was image #4 that came up:

lol that's the catalog picture, here's the actual boat...

 

[Mikep.]

The first v8 was a complete mess. Inside and outside was tore up. Definite no go. The v6 is clean, but not fully loaded like the description said. A few rust spots but the owner won't really budge from the asking price.
I found a second v8 a year older than the six and they are asking $500 less. The v8 has 2000 miles less and is in great shape in and out. It is limited and much better equipped with leather, navigation, jbl etc. I did however find a few draw backs. There is no record of the timing belt being done. Both of the front inner cv boots are torn. And the rotors are warped. I am going back when a technician is there and have them inspect the brakes and make sure the pistons are moving freely. Also take a cover off and take a look at the timing belt. Is there anything to look for specifically tomorrow? How much would I be looking at for the repairs? I really like the limited. It is a 2003. I am pretty capable and probably be doing the repairs myself if I were to decide to go with it.