what would it take to upgrade an 03-04 V8 to VVT-i ?

03v8sport

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I dont really know what extra parts were added in 2005 to make it VVT-i but is VVT-i integrated into the block or is it just a matter of adding extra computing components in the engine bay?
 
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I dont know if there is a difference , but why waste the money , I'm sure its not a plug and play type deal.
 
swimmer2361 said:
I thought that VVT-I was standard on all 4runners, my 2004 V6 has it.

2004 and up V6s have it (not 2003s) and 2005 and up v8s have it (not 2003 or 2004) if Im not mistaken.
 
As far as I know, the V6 in all the 4th gens have VVTI. The V8 got VVTI in 2005 and it's probably not an easy thing to swap into.
 
I should have specified I was talking about the V8.

The 03-04 4.0L V6 is identical to the 05-present V6 but in 2005 the V6 got a 5 speed transmission instead of a 4 speed and the V8 got VVT-i in 2005 (which is why im wondering about the 03-04 versions).

I tried to look up what actually gave the engine VVT-i but havent found anything yet. Yes, the V8 is awesome but it would be great to have the extra top end power especially when on the highway with VVT-i since this technology helps the engine work smarter (hence the "i") to produce more power.

A performance chip changes the mixture settings and I'm not sure if I'd like that due to possible damage to long term longevity.

As far as there being a difference, the 03-04 V8 was rated to 235hp and the 05 VVT-i was rated at 270 (then changed to 260 to reflect new SAE ratings) so basically thats another 30-35 hp depending on how you're measuring it and all that power will come towards the top of the powerband - right where you want it on the highway.
 
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im pretty sure it's integrated.

if you want more power look for a supercharger or get the basic bolt ons... intake and exhaust.
 
V8Limited4wd said:
im pretty sure it's integrated.

if you want more power look for a supercharger or get the basic bolt ons... intake and exhaust.

well its kind of like my problem with the power chip.. I'd rather not boost it because i'd like it to last a while and intake and exhaust only gives about 10hp it seams.

I guess i'll just hold on to mine till it falls apart.. although i'll be taking a real hard look at a new one if they somehow cram that 5.7L in there.. maybe w/some direct injection too?? I can dream.

Does anyone on this site know what the mechanical difference is between the non VVT-i V8 and the newer VVT-i version???

Thanks
 
I have driven 4Runners with both V8 engines and it is not worth the money. I may be getting 1-1.5 mpg better on my 2005, but nothing spectacular.
 
03v8sport said:
I dont really know what extra parts were added in 2005 to make it VVT-i but is VVT-i integrated into the block or is it just a matter of adding extra computing components in the engine bay?
If you want to go faster, look into some forged wheels to save some weight or add a full exhaust with some longtubes, if anyone makes them. Odds are that either of these options will be cheaper than what you want to do.
 
03v8sport said:
I dont really know what extra parts were added in 2005 to make it VVT-i but is VVT-i integrated into the block or is it just a matter of adding extra computing components in the engine bay?

About the only thing you can do is buy an 05 4runner V8...
 
the variable valve timing is an intergral part of the the powertrain and calibration. Is cannot be added on.

It is like asking if one could add the extra gear to make a 4-speed transmission a 5 speed.
 
I have had both versions of the V8 (2004 SR5 and 2005 Limited VVt). I have only driven about 4,000 miles on the VVt, but don't sense a siginifcant power surge. I believe that the '05 burns slightly more fuel, but will continue to monitor. I might notice the VVT when towing, but have not done so yet.
 
leftyrb said:
I have had both versions of the V8 (2004 SR5 and 2005 Limited VVt). I have only driven about 4,000 miles on the VVt, but don't sense a siginifcant power surge. I believe that the '05 burns slightly more fuel, but will continue to monitor. I might notice the VVT when towing, but have not done so yet.

That's interesting. I guess the fact that they produce about the same torque at about the same RPM means you probably wont notice much unless you are close to redline. I know I annoy my wife as is whenever I stab the throttle.

Does anyone know why the tundra's 4.7L is rated at 271hp with 313ft/lbs and the 4runner's identical engine has 260 with 306ft/lbs?
 
03v8sport said:
...Does anyone know why the tundra's 4.7L is rated at 271hp with 313ft/lbs and the 4runner's identical engine has 260 with 306ft/lbs?

There's a plausible technical reason in having to shove the exhaust setup into a smaller space in the 4runner, but I suspect the difference is due as much to marketing considerations.
 

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