Help choosing the right 3rd Generation 4runner

[bs1865]

New to the forum (first post) and hope to soon be new to the 4runner. After much studying, I'm looking for a '99 or '00 4runner with rear locker. 1st choice is the '99 with it's slightly higher ground clearance. My question has to do with the multi-mode (Limiteds) or traditional 4wd (SR5s). I'll be using the vehicle primarily for travel to and from outdoor recreational events...camping, hunting, etc. As well as some occasional daily travel.

The most demanding of the travel will be road trips to CO, from Texas, for Hunting out West. Good possibility of snow, rain conditions. Also, the trails we use to access the areas are off road. Anything from groomed to rough dirt/mud with good sized rock topped terrain. Of course, the regularly chance of snow, ice and mud being thick on those roads plus considerable climbing at times.

In Texas mostly dry dirt and rock with times being mud for any off-roading I'd do here locally...limited climbing.

For those with specific 4runner 4WD or AWD experience or just far more 4x4 experience than me (not much), which system would be a better fit and why?

I do understand the basic premise behind 4WD and AWD, but feel free to not assume about my expertise or mainly lack thereof.

Thanks in advance for the replies!

 

[Hepar]

If you plan on using your 4wd for mainly snow, ice and mixed conditions, then I think you'll definitely want a Runner with the multi-mode. I think that would limit your options to just the '00 as I believe that was the only year you could get both a factory locker and multi-mode. I could be wrong.

 

[Stick Figure]

If you plan on using your 4wd for mainly snow, ice and mixed conditions, then I think you'll definitely want a Runner with the multi-mode. I think that would limit your options to just the '00 as I believe that was the only year you could get both a factory locker and multi-mode. I could be wrong.

only the limited. the 00 SR5, and SR5 based Sport wasn't the multimode set up. For what its worth, i've never felt like i was missing anything not having the multi mode. If the roads are snowy or icy i put it in 4h and drive.

 

[Hepar]

1999 too.

And I was wrong. :biggrin2:

 

[JohnsD90]

Considering it is the year 2012 now, the 99 model year really should not be as coveted as it is, 99 was 13 years ago, i doubt those springs are still tall especially because 4runner rear springs sag, and the 99's are no exception.

So you can open your search up to 99-00 considering the springs should be replaced soon anyway.

 

[bs1865]

Good point. Any immediate recommendations for springs. I'll check old threads as well.

 

[blockhead]

Just picked up an '00 Limited for 7500. Money well spent. Love it. Can't wait to get it out in CO myself.

 

[MTDewX8]

I have a 00 5spd, with the rear locker. no multi-mode and have done fine in Montana.

might consider selling. at least I am thinking about it. I know a shameless pitch, but its on topic and a bump.


as for higher. I have OME so I am a little higher than stock.

 

[JohnsD90]

Good point. Any immediate recommendations for springs. I'll check old threads as well.

I bought OME 906's, i left stock up front, you could just get new front oem coils, and run the 906's in the back.