Is the SR5 missing frame reinforcement?

[terra4r]

Yeah that's what I find a little strange too. Usually harnesses and parts are there to utilize...ugh. Maybe since the 4runner is relatively low in volume they can get away with it without increased costs due to variability.

 

[JB.]

Here are pics on a 4th and 5th gen. I had assumed the pieces would be identical but there does seem to be a small difference. I used to wonder whether they had any purpose other than the obvious CAT protection, but the fact that Toyota is willing to omit them from a model suggests to me they have no significant frame support function.

2010 LE

2005 LE

 

[CmdrCody]

First the mini skid on the fuel tank, now eliminating additional protection in the frame. What else has my SR5 been denied of?

I'm almost to the point of going down to the dealer and spending some time, and digital pictures, examining the undercarriage an SR5 & TE & Limited, and an FJ just to identify what else might be missing. However I'm afraid that road can only lead to more $ needing to be spent...

Crap.

 

[FERAL 4R]

First the mini skid on the fuel tank, now eliminating additional protection in the frame. What else has my SR5 been denied of?

Crap.

Well ya gotta remember the SR5 is the base (budget) model...The LE is the top tier model, and the TE is very specific (you get it the way they make it)...

It's to be expected that a base model vehicle will not have all the bells and whistles, to keep the costs down and be more affordable to a larger percentage of buyers.

 

[progress4m]

Well ya gotta remember the SR5 is the base (budget) model...The LE is the top tier model, and the TE is very specific (you get it the way they make it)...

It's to be expected that a base model vehicle will not have all the bells and whistles, to keep the costs down and be more affordable to a larger percentage of buyers.

I see your point… but I still think it is wrong to see differences like “missing” skid plate and now frame protection (support) between what supposedly off road oriented SUV… especially if that holds true for SR5 4x4 (not just 4x2)… definitely not used be like that with previous generation. It is also my understating that those differences are not publicly noted…

 

[FERAL 4R]

I see your point… but I still think it is wrong to see differences like “missing” skid plate and now frame protection (support) between what supposedly off road oriented SUV… especially if that holds true for SR5 4x4 (not just 4x2)… definitely not used be like that with previous generation. It is also my understating that those differences are not publicly noted…

I agree as well. It clearly states on the Toyota website, that 4WD models come with full skids. "...on engine/front suspension, fuel tank and transfer case (transfer case on 4WD models only)". Who the hell really knows why some have been sold with missing skids, and missing protection...

If I had an SR5 4WD, I would definitely be at my dealer raising some stink about missing skids, or missing anything else that's clearly noted on their own site.