5th gen to 4th gen?

[Highwaystreets]

With all of the 4wd 4th gens, you need to make sure that none of the actuators are stuck from disuse. Lots of 4wd owners never really use their system and the electric actuator can seize up. For the V8, this will affect the ability to go into 4LO or to lock the center diff so make sure you test these modes before you buy. It can be expensive to fix if they are well and truly seized.

i took one for a test drive and the guy didn't know how to change into 4wd.... so that worried me.... haha. but good point.

 

[Blackhawk_194]

I would personally want a v8.. After owning a V6, the gas mileage is kind of nice, but man the v8 is just better. If you can get a v8 with low mileage or great maintenance, get it and never look back. The problems have been covered above, so I won't be a dead horse there, but you can have problems with any ride.. It is luck of the draw with any 4runner so might as well get one you enjoy and just save for a rainy day fund. Plus there is no replacement for displacement

 

[pjbrownva]

I would avoid the V8s. I currently own one and have had many more issues with the V8 than I have had with any of my V6s.

V8 watch out for:
Exhaust Manifold leak/cracks: $1500/per side to fix
2ndary Air induction pump: Emissions related : $2500 to fix
Timing belt/water pump every 90k: $1000

I was/am very happy with my V6 models. I will not purchase another Toyota V8.

Love my V8. Also, the 4WD V8 is *full time* 4WD, so three is no way to put it in 4WD.... it's always in 4WD.

1) Haven't had the exhaus manifold leak (yet)... but it is a known problem. If / when it happens, will probably replace it with doug Thorley headers (sp?)... so I'll treat it as an upgrade.

2) The AIP (air induction pump) issue is real, and can cost you up to $4k if it happens. You can easily install a kit to bypass the issue before it happens. The kit is $45 and simple to install. See here and also here.

3) Timing belt is a fact of life. Make sure it was done, and replace it when it's due.