I just wanted to share some feedback on my setup for those following.
The truck now drives like a full on tank. And by that I mean it's a purpose built vehicle, heavy, truck - and not a stock 4runner. No more sport utility on the highway. Going 80 mph to Utah this weekend I was just sucking down gas, trying to keep it straight, and had to pay attention to the road. Not to say it wasn't enjoyable, but to the point, the character of the car has evolved. It's just bigger and heavier.
The V8 with the new headers still rips. If I want it to, it will bite down and go. Gotta love the hustle of these V8's. I get about 15 mpg highway, and about 14.5 combined. Almost repectable given the weight and tire size with stock gears.
The KM2's are loud on the highway. Not horror movie loud, but just loud. If you're going from highway tire to these, be prepared. They hum.
Yet, at the end of the day, this truck still performs what it loves to do - drive 800 miles on the highway with "ok" gas mileage @ 15mpg, hit the dirt trails with full gear and 3 adult passengers, sets up a bad ass base camp, and tackles any road I point it down. Its pleasing to the eyes, has a nice exhaust note, and fires up every time. Just some thoughts to ponder on as you may or may not be building up your own vehicle. I think the key is to determine your trucks purpose, and find that "balance" of what works for you. Sometimes bigger is not better....sometimes it is. A 32 inch tire will still get you to similar places, and probably more effeciently.
But at the end of the day, the entire purpose of the 4runner is to get me to places that others can't, and to do it in my own way....:
Enjoy your journey
