4 Runner Questions

[junk yard dog]

I am about the pull the trigger on an SR5 V8 with sunroof and 3rd row in silver.

I used to own Land Cruiser that was fulltime 4WD. Does the 4 runner use the same transmission/transfer case as the Land Cruiser?

Does anybody regret not getting a sunroof? Does anybody regret getting a sunroof? My wife wants it but I am not sold on it.

Do all V8 4 Runners come with the same rear axle ratio?

If I drained all fluids shortly after purchase and replaced with synthetics will this improve mileage?

Lastly, am I the only person that thinks the side bolsters on the 4 Runner are tight and uncomfortable around the kidney area? I am a stocky 5'8" and just can't get comfortable in them. May be I have been Honda Odysseyized?



:awais: :bigok:

 

[Thai]

Which Land Cruiser did you own?? The previous generation of TLCs (TLC 80) had vicous coupling center diff i think. The current one (TLC 100) has a mechanical center diff. Center diff is what allows for full-time operation on dry land. The 4runner V8's fulltime system is similar to the current TLC (mechanical center diff), but it's called Torsen center diff. Torsen is able to vary the amound of torque to each axle based on traction. TLC center diff splits torque 50/50.

If you have the money and don't have a problem with headroom, then get the sunroof, esp. if your wife wants it.

You probably won't see much mileage differences with synthetics. Remember, the price that you pay to add synthetics to all your fluids can pay for a lot of fuel! I would not do it. I think that most people recommend switching to synthetics after 10,000 miles, not earlier.

 

[Koz]

The sunroof is an option that is a matter of personal taste. My wife has to have it and I have grown to like it. However, the sunroof on the 4Runner, is an option that sometimes has some issues that can be sorted out under warranty.

Changing to synthetics is something that can be done at the first oil change. You will not see any mileage gains but it does help. It provides the best possible protection and if you use the good stuff it allows you to extend the drain intervals, 50 to 100K miles on the diffs and transfer case. If you are leasing or do not intend to keep the vehicle, it may not pay to go full synthetic.

Koz

 

[Good Times]

Current LC's and current v8 4runner's have the same motor and tranny/transfercase. I believe the earlier LC 100's had the 4A/T but the 5A/T's are the same including the transfer case.

all v8 rear axles are 3.727

changing fluids is a good recommendation but don't expect a world of a difference (marginal at best if not insignificant).

I am about the pull the trigger on an SR5 V8 with sunroof and 3rd row in silver.

I used to own Land Cruiser that was fulltime 4WD. Does the 4 runner use the same transmission/transfer case as the Land Cruiser?

Does anybody regret not getting a sunroof? Does anybody regret getting a sunroof? My wife wants it but I am not sold on it.

Do all V8 4 Runners come with the same rear axle ratio?

If I drained all fluids shortly after purchase and replaced with synthetics will this improve mileage?

Lastly, am I the only person that thinks the side bolsters on the 4 Runner are tight and uncomfortable around the kidney area? I am a stocky 5'8" and just can't get comfortable in them. May be I have been Honda Odysseyized?



:awais: :bigok:

 

[Uneek]

Try a 4Runner with and without the moonroof. If the shortage of headroom doesn't bother you for a 4Runner with a moonroof, go for it. Your wife will be happy.

I got the moonroof on mine, I don't use it very often, but on gloomy days I pull the shade back to get more light in the cabin. I got it because it's better to have it and not use it, than want to use it and not have it.