Mix and Match Drivetrains?

[Avet14]

So I've already made a few posts here but I haven't properly introduced myself yet. So I'll do that before I go on with my question.

I used to be a Subaru fanatic (still am actually) but once I got rid of my Impreza after the lease expired I ended up getting an old Jetta simply cuz thats all I could afford. This past January though I helped my mom lease an 07 SR5 V6 4Runner 4WD and figured I'd join here since I'm the one that primarily takes care of the truck.

Now onto my question. Subarus are known for having a lego-like quality between models where part are very easily interchangeable whether its engines/transmissions/brakes/ or even interior pieces.

It seems to me that Toyota's trucks have a similiar type of interchangeability but I just wanted to get some insight from you folks.

If I ever decided to get a used Tacoma for myself in the future would it be possible to get a 6 speed 4WD and somehow convert it to Multi-Mode? Maybe one of you can do a break-down for me of all the separate independant parts of a 4WD system.

 

[boston_kevin]

If it were only so simple as swapping parts (tranny, transfer case...) Unfortunately you would also have to add some wiring and also purchase an ECU for the truck, not to mention the additional interior work... There has been a lot of interest in making the V8 4Runner multi-mode, but since the cost would far outweigh the benefit, most people accept it as a "benefit" of having the V8 (never having to remember to switch to 4WD).

 

[Uneek]

The 4Runner has a center differential for it's transfer case, which the Tacoma doesn't. I'm not sure if the size of the 6-speed from the Tacoma is the same as the 4Runner's 5-speed auto. I think if you were trying the transfer case swap in a 5-speed Tacoma the possibility of success would be greater.

This is a swap I've wondered about as well, since Toyota trucks (Tacoma and Tundra) have part-time 4WD systems. My Tacoma is a PreRunner, so I wouldn't/couldn't tell if the swap is even possible.

IMO, this is what makes the 4Runner such a great vehicle. V8 option available, which can't be had on a Tacoma. Full-time 4WD system that can be operated on any surface, which isn't available on the trucks. The LC and Sequoia are much bigger.

 

[Avet14]

The 4Runner has a center differential for it's transfer case, which the Tacoma doesn't. I'm not sure if the size of the 6-speed from the Tacoma is the same as the 4Runner's 5-speed auto. I think if you were trying the transfer case swap in a 5-speed Tacoma the possibility of success would be greater.

Well the reason I'm thinking the 6 speed could also work is cuz of the FJ. Also what exactly is the difference (mechanically) between 6 and 8 cylinder 4WD T4R's that allows the 6 to switch to 2H, is it still the entire transfercase as a whole unit that is different?

If there is enough interchangeability I would definitely go for a V8 multimode/fulltime 6 speed Tacoma