Towing on 3.4L 4Runner 1999

[electraglide]

Guys, I could really use some help. I have done a search on the forum and looked at a million post's about towing with the 3.4L 4runner and I have come away more confused.

Does anyone personally tow a boat on a regular basis using a 3.4L 4runner? I have found a really good deal on a low mileage 1999 4runner V6 but I will need it to tow my boat that with trailer,motor, hull, gas etc will come in no more than 3500 lbs. I realize the V6 4runner is rated at 5,000 lbs but not sure if the V6 4runner can pull 3500lbs with out any problems on a regular basis or not. (regular basis, I mean 3 to 4 times a month, 150 mile round trips).

I can't find any low mileage decent priced V8 4runners in my market here in Texas so this V6 4runner is looking really good if it can handle the towing on a regular basis (please don't respond get a V8, not a option at this point, please only respond to your personal experience with the V6)

Can anyone who has first hand experience with using V6 4runners for towing on a regular basis please respond. THANK YOU for your responses.

 

[RonMAIDEN]

They do fine towing but if it's an auto tranny a tranny cooler is a must.
I towed my friend's boat (w/trailer was at just over 4000lbs) up over Vail Pass here in Colorado and even with our O2 starved atmosphere it did fine and I didn't have an oil cooler at the time.

My friend now has his own 3rd gen and he regularly (twice a month for 5 months during the year) tows throughout the summer up in the mountains and reports no problems. He also regularly joins us on the trails too.

 

[mikehinthehouse]

pulling is not the issue.. Id say stopping is... I would do the Tundra brake upgrade or you will be warping rotors left and right

 

[racedirt1]

I tow our 3,500 lb. camper all the time with no problem (41 nights camped in '06). Turn off O.D. and hopefully that trailer will come with either surge or electric brakes. Sure a brake controller and wiring may cost a few extra $$$, but well worth it.

A trans. cooler is also a great idea. I generally tow out here in the flat midwest so I have yet to get a trans cooler installed, but it is on my to-do list.

Sway control may be in your future also, 4Runners have a shorter wheel base and a higher center of gravity, both which will contibute to sway. Something like a Reese sway control bar can be found on e-bay for around $50.00. I have a 2001 SR5 4WD.

 

[electraglide]

Guys, thanks for the information. I'm not familiar with a "brake controller" can anyone provide more details as to what that is? Any ball park idea on a cost for one? Thanks for the good information.