2002 4Runner quite slow...

[seabiscuit25]

Hello all,
I recently bought a 2002 4Runner Limited 4WD. My wife has a 2003 4Runner SR5 and that has very good acceleration. I understand the 183HP on the 2002, but I still think it is slow. The guy at PepBoys said it feels like there is something pulling or the engine/exhaust needs cleaning and they have a package which does just that for $79.99/-. This morning when I started the car, I could smell gasoline from the exhaust.

What are the best things I can do for the 4Runner to be its best? I'm not looking into superchargers. I want it to be stock and be its best. Appreciate your advise/suggestion/guidance! Thanks in advance.

Also are there any 4Runner enthusiasts around Seattle? :hello:

Thanks in advance,
K

 

[Schargedtaco]

Could be several things. I had the same prob with my 97 when i bought it compared to my 96 3.4l which had great power. I changed plugs, ensured plug wires where not to old, changed all fluids, I cleaned my k&n filter and cleaned out the intake tube and throttle body with carb cleaner, unplugged the EFI fuse for 20 minutes and still seemed sluggish for months. i finally put in a half bottle of lucas oil fuel treatment and its a different truck now. Have you driven any other 3.4L to compare it to? If not your truck may be running perfect. After owning a 2003 your 2002 is going to feel like a dog on a good day!