Tacoma tracking better than 4Runner?

[harojs]

My 2006 4R tracks on the highway like a brick. Hard to keep it in the lane.

Looking to buy a Tacoma.

[Q1] Any intel on if newer Tacoma quad cab 4WD tracks any better on hwy?

[Q2] How about a quad cab with the long bed?

John, Seattle

 

[stevelikesrhino]

It tracks better because of longer wheelbase (at least 18 inches of difference), which has its own drawback, such as worse break-over angle. Your 4runner is 17 years old, lots of stuff can affect highway stability: lower control arm bushings, tie rods, steering rack play, steering wheel intermediate shaft play, alignment.

If any of the above is badly worn, a brand new Tacoma will track better on highway. A brand new 4runner will also track better. Even a 2006 4runner with brand new steering parts and proper alignment, will track better.

 

[Boort]

My 2006 4R tracks on the highway like a brick. Hard to keep it in the lane.

Looking to buy a Tacoma.

[Q1] Any intel on if newer Tacoma quad cab 4WD tracks any better on hwy?

[Q2] How about a quad cab with the long bed?

John, Seattle

I can't answer your questions regarding the newer Tacomas and how they track. But I don't think the issue holds for all 4runners or even the 4th gens.
What does your 2006 have for suspension?
Have you had a recent alignment and were all angles / settings within spec?
Any damage that could explain the "drives like a brick"?

I'm asking because both before and after my suspension upgrade I found that my 2006 drives with much better manners than my 1st Gen Tacoma or my brothers 3rd gen Tacoma. Sure it drives like an SUV (rather than a sports car) I find no fatigue from trying to keep it safely in it's lane even when driving long distances on the highway. The rig tracks very well even when towing the camper. For example I've driven from the Eastern Sierra of California to Colorado with the popup trailer behind at 80 MPH in one LONG day and have done a few other long trips without complaint.

Boort

 

[alia176]

I like it, tired suspension means a while new vehicle. That's one way to update the tired suspension [emoji16]

Sent from my SM-G981U using Tapatalk

 

[gaber6]

My 2006 4R tracks on the highway like a brick. Hard to keep it in the lane.

Looking to buy a Tacoma.

[Q1] Any intel on if newer Tacoma quad cab 4WD tracks any better on hwy?

[Q2] How about a quad cab with the long bed?

John, Seattle

I have an 05 V6 with 230k miles. Generic replacement everything on the suspension and it rides just fine. Good tires and new rubber bits makes a world of difference.

 

[harojs]

Thanks all,

I will get an alignment done - its been a while.

I have LTX tires in good shape.

I do have the XREAS system which I know some folks are replacing with OME or similar. The XREAS system does not look like it is leaking or showing lights that it is failing.

Your thoughts? - replace XREAS with ? OME or 5100 or ?

( 80% PNW HWY / 20% snow and gravel )

John

 

[BackOff]

These 4th gen t4r like to have close to 3 degrees caster before they want to drive down the road straight.

 

[OopsIBrokeIt]

Thanks all,

I will get an alignment done - its been a while.

I have LTX tires in good shape.

I do have the XREAS system which I know some folks are replacing with OME or similar. The XREAS system does not look like it is leaking or showing lights that it is failing.

Your thoughts? - replace XREAS with ? OME or 5100 or ?

( 80% PNW HWY / 20% snow and gravel )

John

XREAS is entirely unmonitored. It'll never trigger a light.

To check it, instead of looking for leaks drive over a bump or shake the truck and see how it reacts. If it bounces/rocks repeatedly you probably could use fresh shocks. If it wiggles and promptly smooths back out they're probably alright.

I'd also definitely inspect all your bushings and ball joints front & rear. I just did my entire suspension with fresh components and man did it make a difference.