We just purchased a 98 t4r and love it, but were wondering if all 3rd generations are so loud, our engine compartment sounds like an airplane and my mechanic says is because of the cooling fan design, is this true?
i have always thought my runner was a little loud too. Once the engine warms up though it is nice is quiet until you hit the gas and it gets pretty loud. I always thought it was the ISR that was creating that noise.
If the fan does not calm down, the clutch in the fan may not be working. Also, the type of tires you have make a big deal with noise. If they are big off roading tires, you might as well forget a nice ride.
Another member complained about the noise and it was comparing to a premium sedan. The 3rd generation will never be as quiet. I am impressed with my 4Ruuner when it crusing on the highway, to me quite a good ride.
You could line your 4Runner with Dynomat (or similar products) to cut down the noise. A member on here (Rock Slide) did this in his 4Runner. I'm sure he'll be chiming in.