I Need Guidance To Pick The Right 4th Gen 4Runner

[Dpassmore]

There's a user card on the driver sun visor. Go by that.
My last timing belt had 140k and still looked pretty good.

 

[cbr400rr]

Dont assume all Limiteds have sunroof...some dont!
All v8s are full time 4wd and I love it, great in the rain etc

The only annoying issue with the V8 is the header leak..which you can research here of-course.....

That is not true V8's came in RWD. But are not very common.

 

[2003-4x4runner]

Understood, only use Toyota coolant.

How so I test the 4x4 system to make sure everything is operating correctly? With the standard FWD/RWD cars that I've purchased in the past, I always test driving through all the gears, and perform stop and goes on inclines in both D and R gears. I've discovered issues with transmissions by using these methods before in the past.

How should I approach testing the 4x4 systems?

Thanks!

To test the 4x4 system in 4low with CDL, just drive on a long dirt road or large dirt lot. I've heard some people use the 4low and CDL on pavement before but I wouldn't try it. You can find the 4WD instructions on the drivers side visor.

 

[alaskaman]

Timing Belt
Timing Belt trensioner
Timing Belt Idler Pulley
A must do on the V8 if not already done.

Rear and Center Differential Fluid, what type should I use?
Synthetic per Toyota specs

Check Tire Pressure
Tires- Big choice. What tires do you have on now?

Inspect Wiper blades
Replace

Top off windshield fluid
Use fluid rated to -20 or -40.


Replace coolant with 80% coolant, 20% filtered water in preparation for cold weather.
Go with Toyota spec rated to below zero temps.

I'm also going to buy a Bluetooth OBDII sensor and connect it to the app Torque to monitor the transmission temps while hauling. 160 to 180 is the optimal range?

How much weight are you pulling?

 

[RockyRider]

Timing Belt
Timing Belt trensioner
Timing Belt Idler Pulley
A must do on the V8 if not already done.

Rear and Center Differential Fluid, what type should I use?
Synthetic per Toyota specs

Check Tire Pressure
Tires- Big choice. What tires do you have on now?

Inspect Wiper blades
Replace

Top off windshield fluid
Use fluid rated to -20 or -40.


Replace coolant with 80% coolant, 20% filtered water in preparation for cold weather.
Go with Toyota spec rated to below zero temps.

I'm also going to buy a Bluetooth OBDII sensor and connect it to the app Torque to monitor the transmission temps while hauling. 160 to 180 is the optimal range?

How much weight are you pulling?

Thanks for the excellent response. I'll be pulling around 4000lb

Should I also replace the front main seal while the timing belt is being replaced?

 

[alaskaman]

Thanks for the excellent response. I'll be pulling around 4000lb

Should I also replace the front main seal while the timing belt is being replaced?

I can't offer to much advice on the seal though there are threads on that here in this forum. I would add sway bars to help with your 4k pounds. I would also invest in new tires (also many threads). Do you anticipate snow on your trip? an if so is there another way to get your "stuff" to your new destination? Pulling a trailer in snow is not all that easy.

 

[rooost]

Dont forget to grease the drivelines and the differential fluid, which calls for 75-90

 

[NuclearN8]

sounds like you found a great 4Runner and have been given a bunch of great advice.

On top of what others have stated. I think the best bang for your buck in terms of driveability and handling (especially when towing) is to swap out your oem rubber sway bar bushings to polyurethane. Measure the bars twice and order once from jegs or summit racing. both have greasable and non-greasable versions available in all sizes.

I would also replace the PCV. It's an inexpensive OEM part that is often overlooked yet performs a pretty important function for the engine crankcase pressure regulation.

Drop in a good fuel system cleaner (techron) with your next full tank of gas.
Get a new engine air filter (if needed)
Get a new cabin air filter (behind glovebox, just yank it out and check it) if needed.

verify the towing electrical connection works (before taking delivery or driving it off the lot) sinc eyou'll be towing right away.. harbor freight sells a plug in tester for cheap, buy it, use it, return it. Free check.

I'd do an engine oil change (and filter) with Mobil 1.
I'd use Mobil 1 75W-90 for the differentials and transfer case
(mobil 1 is available at walmart so a great value)
lube the driveshaft zerks (I use mobil1 but everyone has their opinion)

only use Toyota SLCC (replace the hoses, clamps and thermostat while you have it all apart.. no point skimping) and timing belt parts.

wiper blades are important, windshield washer fluid is just as important (especially having a spare bottle in the Runner during winter months in the midwest/ north... don't want to get stranded on a highway with none). Carry an extra bottle (the kind that won't freeze)

Make sure your tires are properly inflated

Lastly, get some good tunes, food, and navigation (I use Waze app and lot it) for the road trip.

Drive safe and let us know when you arrive in the PNW.. Post some pics of your journey as well.. you're gonna drive through some great parts of the country.

 

[RockyRider]

Thanks for all of the advice guys! :thanks: Here is what I brought home with me.

It's an 08 Limited 4x4 V8 with gray leather interior that has 115K miles on it and it's really clean inside and out. The timing belt was just done and the Michelin tires are new. I'm going to have a local Toyota repair shop do all of the remaining maintenance items above before I depart on my trip.

 

[WI_4Runner]

Thanks for all of the advice guys! :thanks: Here is what I brought home with me.

It's an 08 Limited 4x4 V8 with gray leather interior that has 115K miles on it and it's really clean inside and out. The timing belt was just done and the Michelin tires are new. I'm going to have a local Toyota repair shop do all of the remaining maintenance items above before I depart on my trip.

Slick rig - welcome and enjoy it.