possible to run on alcohol?

[USSEnterprise]

I have been in between a rock and a hard place regarding my truck. I love it, and make use of its size and 4WD, but the fuel economy is killing me, and I expect it to get worse with raising gas prices in the coming months with the turmoil in the Middle East. I know I've seen how people convert their cars to run on propane, hydrogen and alcohol. There is a place where I can get 55 gallons of 99.9% pure methanol for around $120. That comes to $2.18 per gallon.

Can this be done on a 4Runner (with 3.4 V6)? What modifications need to be made?

 

[Gerdo]

I know that you can run E-85 in almost any vehicle BUT it will eat any rubber parts in the fuel system.

Flex-fuel vehicles have special seals that don't break down.

Straight alcohol? I'm thinking that you will have major issues.

E-85 has ~25% less BTUs than a full petroleum based gas. Therefor you will get ~25% less miles per gallon.

 

[Saved]

I have been in between a rock and a hard place regarding my truck. I love it, and make use of its size and 4WD, but the fuel economy is killing me, and I expect it to get worse with raising gas prices in the coming months with the turmoil in the Middle East. I know I've seen how people convert their cars to run on propane, hydrogen and alcohol. There is a place where I can get 55 gallons of 99.9% pure methanol for around $120. That comes to $2.18 per gallon.

Can this be done on a 4Runner (with 3.4 V6)? What modifications need to be made?

First off there is a difference between alcohol and methanol. http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090803224903AAHwie6 You need to pick which one you want as the conversion is not the same.

 

[hunton]

There is a company that makes an E-85 conversion kit. I can't remember the name but it gives you a programer hoses and everything you need.

 

[Max Blast]

Folks, E-85 (ethanol) is not the same as METHANOL.
For the OP, the answer is no. Dragsters run on methanol. 5VZ's do not.

 

[Tomsriv]

Maybe you could get it to run on moonshine!

Fuel economy tips for 4runners,
remove roof rack (wind resistance)
remove trailer hitch (weight)
remove running boards (weight)
Buy low rolling resistance tires
Don't get a lift (wind resistance)

Last but not least, install a Diesel engine from a Toyota from a Hilux or Surf.