Hi, new here, and new to owning 4runner. Have had Toyotas in the past (pickups and Sequoia) with various v8 motors. The 4.7 in my 2002 Tundra still going strong at 160k miles with duals. Had a '08 Sequoia with the 5.7, it was a beast, but smooth. Recently tried, for extended period a '13 Tundra with 4.6, and found it completely gutless.
Anyway, I just bought a 2012 4Runner Limited 4WD, like new - <10k miles. My only complaint is the v6 power... I knew going in I wouldn't love it, but since the v8 is no longer offered, I was willing to make the compromise. Any suggestions for getting more power (and torque) without killing mpg or durability?
We just had this thread last week in the 4th Gen Forum. So, I will get to the heart of the matter. It's a heavy (~4500lbs) vehicle with a relatively small, naturally aspirated engine (4.0L V6) and it is specifically tuned and geared for the typical driver who spends most of his driving in the (1500-3000)RPM ranges.
1. Do not spend your time and money on those so-called "power adders" (cold air intakes, exhaust systems, filters, underdrive pulleys, ignition systems, etc.) Why? IF they are to deliver any additional power to a naturally aspirated engine it will not be measured, and hardly felt, until you are well above 3000RPM. Check out those dyno curves they post on the product advertising...nothing happens until after 3000, then the curves split. If you routinely beat the #$%^ out of your 4Runner by running it up to 5500-6000RPM every time you can, then be my guest, you might have power gains. "Putzing" around town or on the highway, you will not sense much of a change. You will have simply lightened your wallet for nothing but frustration or the delusion that your engine is making more power.
2. If you have $6000-$8000, then you may be able double your horsepower with a nicely tuned turbo or supercharger system. Go to a reputable speedshop, they will set you up with a proper system for low-end, streetable power. You don't need to wait for some "kit". A good speedshop is well-versed in fabricating whatever they need. Just tell them how you plan on using your vehicle and they can put something together for you.
3. Gear the #$%^ out of it. For example, if you are running 3.73's in your differentials, then move up by "1". So, 4.56's or 4.88's. If you are running an automatic transmission, you will just run up the gears faster. So around town, all you'll notice is that the 4Runner feels like it is 1000lbs lighter. With more torque, you may actually see an improvement in fuel economy. It's a lot of fun. On the highway, you will be up another 500-1000RPM depending upon tires and gears, however, if you are doing any towing, you will certainly appreciate it when you hit those inclines. Your highway fuel economy may drop a bit.
