Improving 2004 Toyota 4Runner SR5 RWD winter prowess

[52577]

I have a 2004 base SR5, rear wheel drive. 100% stock. 4 new Michelin all season tires. New Bilstein shocks. About 45K miles on the odometer.

What can I do to increase its rain and snow handling capabilities? I understand having a vehicle that is 4WD or AWD would be the best, but this is just a base RWD model. Keeping the gas tank full helps keep the rear planted better with the weight and seems to help. I chose the Michelin all seasons because they were a good balance between touring and winter, more on soft/comfort side than stiff performance.

It does fairly well, but I'd like it to be a bit more winter confidence inspiring.

Any aftermarket modifications I can do to improve this?

Thanks.

 

[Trumpet]

Full on snow tires for the winter, or at least '3 peak' rated all seasons.


https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=125

 

[Syr4RinNC]

Agree - dedicated Winter tires are going to be best. An investment in you and your passengers safety.

put some weight in the rear end - ~ 50-100 pounds or so

 

[gimlithepirate]

I have a 2004 base SR5, rear wheel drive. 100% stock. 4 new Michelin all season tires. New Bilstein shocks. About 45K miles on the odometer.

What can I do to increase its rain and snow handling capabilities? I understand having a vehicle that is 4WD or AWD would be the best, but this is just a base RWD model. Keeping the gas tank full helps keep the rear planted better with the weight and seems to help. I chose the Michelin all seasons because they were a good balance between touring and winter, more on soft/comfort side than stiff performance.

It does fairly well, but I'd like it to be a bit more winter confidence inspiring.

Any aftermarket modifications I can do to improve this?

Thanks.

Winter tire first and foremost. Then, I'd say a Detroit Trutrac in the rear diff. Its a helical limited slip differential. Requires a professional install, but is about your only other way to gain any traction beyond the winter tires.