I like the early 2nd gens for their over-the-top ruggedness and rounded square, early 90s styling. The 3rd Gen has many creature comforts of a newer 4th Gen or 5th Gen 4Runer without the headache of pinstripes, bumps, scrapes, and bruises. Its a vehicle with a long production history, lots of user communities for support, and exceptionally good off-road [], can i replace front bumper from 2004 4runner with same from 2008 if I do whole assembly? So, if you use this as a 44 always be sure to make sure everything is in tip-top shape so you dont break down your rig or blow a head gasket. Today, RSG offers a streamlined fabrication production line including rock sliders, skid plates, and electronic parts for many different Toyota and Lexus models. Unless of course, you have something custom made for the4th Gen 4Runner. Keeping your truck in tip-top shape will do nothing for the life of the head gaskets. Thank you so much for putting this info together in one article. You still can get bolt-on transmission adaptors to easily install a chevy 350 or a ford 302 or even a newer generation 4Runner 3.4l v6 for more power. They took it so far and I really love it. 3vze (V6) head gasket problems had nothing to do with the exhaust drying them out Theyre metal gaskets. I believe all 4Runners are built in Japan. Thank you. Nice you're right around the corner. This dude can seriously build a 4Runner. I have a 98 taco with 350k on it. pats for sale as well, 92 fourrunner swap 3.0 L standard Engine Swap compatibility. It was loud, very very loud. The guy puts an LS1 (LS2/3 maybe?) The 5th Gen 4Runner can be purchased in a variety of models including; classic SR5, Trail, TRD Pro, TRD Off-Road, and Limited which are all great for Off-Road. Can I just ask 1 question, I have the 3rd gen 4runner. An absolute beauty of a 4Runner, though. 5th Gen 4Runner girl all the way for me! thanks,. I still try to sell my self on this one, though. I believe they were introduced in 87 or 88. If you decide a straight axle swap isnt your sort of thing, dont worry there are plenty of lift kits available. For whatever reason on our first3rd Gen 4Runner (1999 SR5), we replaced the brakes multiple times. Easiest way might be to swap out the whole rad support from the earlier model. 1st gen taco ls swap? - Marlin Crawler Use an older Jeep 4-cylinder bell housing from an ax5 trans and turn a long pilot bushing and it will bolt to your transmission. Its a luxury Tank on any trip. Lightweight and powerful - with 190 HP (a 45 HP increase) - its equipped with a Toyota multi-port fuel injection system. iOS and Android Compatible. With the exception of 2010, there was a 2.7l 4cyl auto option available but it is not so common. It has a leaking rear passenger side seal and I never upgraded the brakes, really should have the Tundra brake upgrade done on it.. Its a 44 with rear locker and I put Bilsteins on it.. What lift, tire, wheel combo is that on the second gen 4Runner? The fifth gen just never really met what I was looking for. They do not come with Bilstein shocks. Has anyone done an engine swap on a 5th gen? And I want 40 Toyo M/Ts, and I wouldnt mind some full-width axles either. If youre looking for something with a lot of power and the potential to be fully decked out, buy yourself a 1st or 2nd Gen 4Runner and lift it, straight axle swap it, throw a roll cage on it, or v8 swap it. I've already discussed it with them. Engine Transmission Drivetrain Avg. While both the v6 and the v8 are 300-500k engines, theres a known problem with the v6 head-gaskets from 2003-2005. My first 4runner was a 1998, SR5 V6 that sold me on Toyota quality and reliability. Plasticolor 000543R01 Black Off Road Scene Easy Fit Mud Guard 11" - Set of 2, Portable Car Radio with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, Wireless Car Stereo 7" IPS TouchScreen Car Radio with Bluetooth Hands-Free/Mirror Link/Google and Siri Assistant, Dash or Windshield Mounted, Lockitt POSI-TAP Assortment pack wire connectors 10-22 awg. If you are a rock crawler this is the 4Runner youre looking for. Around late 2014, RSG Offroad in Colorado started building Toyota trucks and providing installation services built out with Bilstein, KING, BDS, FOX, SPC, and other major brands. I would love to go with a 350, but I aint gonna do it if I gotta lose my dual case setup. So if rot begins to occur, you will have to find another 1st Gen 4Runner for quarters and floors and other common rot areas. Id also avoid sunroofs on older models.KISS keep it simple stupid. It really has to be THE best 4Runner in history. Are the front wheel liners the same? Full Howe hydraulic assist steering custom built with the pump, steering box, ram, and cooler. I recently dropped my tranny and t-case (w56 with dual 228s). If it fits then there's maybe a way. But we want to know what sort of engine do you suggest the OP go with, considering his strictly off-road use for the truck and budgetary concerns? There are steel plate and tube bumpers available from many fabrication companies. Toyota Pickup Engine Swap Advice - YotaTech Getting things to work on the CAN Bus would in theory be easy because all the electronics are made by Denso. With the body on frame combined with a straight axle, the2nd Gen 4Runnercan climb anything, anytime and anywhere. That's very annoying. LS Swapping a Toyota 4Runner (5.3 into a 3rd Gen) - YouTube Just lay it out and outline the price. Fan Support Cummins PN 5270378. I'll keep my eyes peeled for a wrecked GX460 in a couple of years. I really enjoyed this read, but I have to be honest. Thx for sharing. Our maiden drive was Yellowstone and it got 23mpg at 7000 feet. They featured a removable top and sported a 2.4L I4 engine that produced less than 100 hp. 4Runner engine swap possiblities? | Toyota Nation Forum It was the easiest for me to work on, but then again I have been driving it forever now so. Phone Finder. They not only share bell housing, but they share the exact same transmission housing and all internal parts except the solenoids and one clutch bell part. They are for all intensive purposes the same vehicle with different options. Just pull the bell housing from a W59 or W56 and it will bolt up. His shop, his family, his team everyone he works with was just genuinely cool and incredibly humble. Radiator: Stock Toyota 4Runner, core size 20"W x 19"T x 2"D. Fan: 16" Clutched mechanical fan. So, the same type of upgrades with more variety. Possibly at some point in 2021. Some have 4wd, and some have 4wd with locker. RSG is a top quality shop. Id love to do that, but then again, I also love working on my engine in the truck if i have to instead of pulling it to change something so small. 10 Months Of 4Runner Ownership & Frequent Modifications: We Like About Our 2022 TRD ORP 4Runner Build I come from a background of performance cars and living in the UK. So one day in early February 2021 I found a donor Tundra on CarPart and bought it! We enjoy pushing the vehicles limits and learning from them. 2016 Olathe Toyota Parts Center. I actually owned an 88 4runner with the 3.slow V6. While replacing LS1 in CJ7 on a bud's ride, was thinking would it fit in my 3rd gen 4x4. LS1 swap? - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum Plus, I like idea of staying Toyota.. Hey there. Sounds like a lot of fun destinations and off-road expeditions are in your future. I love the article. 2 were V6 and now I have an 04 V8 44. If it was, your engine is at no more risk of head gasket failure than any other engine if similar mileage or age. Doing the Tundra Big Brake Upgrade was the best upgrade I have done on mine- and one of the easiest! All this depends on how much you want to spend in time and money. Breana, Thank you! Its a Tank right off the lot. I love the 96-98 style, cant stand the limited or the extended bumpers on the 99-02. I also thought it might be cool to put round lights behind the square bezels and do a projector HID with angle eyes would look kind of angry not sure. A stock 5th Gen 4Runner is geared with 3.73 gears. You left out that the 5th generation does not have a full time hi speed (highway) 4 wheel drive system like the 4th. We covered 5 States in ten days and just marveled at the smooth systems of the 4Runner. More. No big deal. Additionally, a GX460 Radiator was swapped in. Thats right, now the 4th Gen 4Runner has a v8 which is perfect for offroading but now the 4th Gen 4Runner only comes in automatic which may be a downside to some. 5th Gen 4Runner Parts Marketplace (2010-2024), 4th Gen 4Runner Parts Marketplace (2003-2009), 3rd Gen 4Runner Parts Marketplace (1996-2002), 2nd Gen 4Runner Parts Marketplace (1990-1995), 1st Gen 4Runner Parts Marketplace (1984-1989), Starter Replacement & Rear Shock Replacement, Installing aftermarket radio with switch panel, Radiator Replacement/Tranny Cooler Install, 2UZ-FE (V8) Power Steering Pump Replacement and Fluid Flush, Reverse Lights (In Reflectors/Under the bumper), Meet Jason From RSG and His T40R, A 5.7L V8 SAS 5th Gen 4Runner (trail4runner.com), Exterminators Choice - Rodent Defense Spray for Cars and Trucks - Non-Toxic Deterrent for Pest Control - Repels Mice and Rats - Vehicle Protection - Safe for Kids and Pets (32 Ounce), Genuine Toyota Accessories PT925-89110 Running Board , Black, Tukellen for Toyota Key Fob Cover,Special Soft TPU Key Case Protector Shell Compatible with Tundra Tocoma Sequoia 4Runner Highlander RAV4 Camry Corolla Avalon (only for Keyless go)-Black, iJDMTOY 9005 9145 HB3 H10 Heavy Duty Ceramic Wiring Harness Sockets Compatible With Headlights or Fog Lights. You can do a swap without a kit, but the kits are priced very reasonably and save a lot of time. When I was a kid my father, Craig, restored Early Ford Mustangs and Broncos in beautiful Wheatridge, Colorado. The only major problem that we experienced with the3rd Gen 4Runner was the brakes. if you watch the whole thing, it's an hour of your life you will never get back hey, with a sledge hammer, torch, and a welder you can do anything. Now if youre in the market for something that is offroad capable while being brand new or fairly used, the 5th Gen is the one for you. Well, we ended up having too much time on our hands because our 4Runner delivery was delayed by 4 days. I owned a 1999 SR5 and put a few miles on it. I have a 2010 4Runner and like it very much. Discount Prices. Some exceptions apply, please see individual product pages for specific fitments. POSTED ON FEBRUARY 23, 2023 BY BRENAN GREENE backwoods adventure mods DRIFTR ROOF RACK Lightweight, Without Compromise Introducing the all-new DRIFTR roof rack from Backwoods starting at only $975. I would start at 99-2002 depending on your budget and the deals you come across. Thank you! Your article sealed it for me. It's possible the only way would be to convert to a solid front axle and lift the truck high enough to clear everything to get the driveshaft to the pinion yolk. Back in 2018, when we first featured their rock sliders, we brought up the idea of an RSG Offroad interview and overview on the T40R. Totally stoked! The2nd Gen 4Runner is a very popular choice for an Off-Road vehicle for many reasons. This morning I put up a post about the FJ Cruiser T case going into the 2nd gen Tacoma. Trail 4Runner participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links or to other retailer sites from Trail4Runner.com. Got those mixed up. 4Runner Generation Years and Differences, Best 4Runner Years & History We could possibly get into bumpers and are looking to expand from our current 5000sq ft building to a 10-20,000sq ft building. In our opinion, the 3rd Gen 4Runner, as of 2015-2017, is probably one of the go-to off-road 4Runners. The Flanges are countersunk to use the same round factory style exhaust gaskets for a factory type seal.. The drivers side drop exhaust pipe has been designed to fit with the Toyota 3.0L 3VZ-E manual transmission bell-housingwith the slave cylinder on the passengerside. Features and benefits of both for sure but god damn is a Toyota dependable. You can buy a *complete* engine AND trans on ebay with under 50,000 miles for under $1300. Luxury items are more apt to fail with age. Now if the 1st Gen 4Runner isnt something you fancy but you still want an older 44 to go Off-Roading in, the 2nd Gen 4Runner is for you. I have a 93 Jeep ZJ that I put OME springs and Bilstein 5100s, with 3110.5 shoes. My 1st was a 4Gen (06), 2nd was a 5th (11) and now a 2015. While we did say the 22re engines are sluggish, they are unkillable if maintained properly. If you ever have any questions, let me know. Im starting to get the 2.5yr bluessolid front axle swap or lt1 ls1 v8 swap? With all my heart and soul, this is where Trail4Runner.com passion started. We received over 200 images for this post on Instagram and selected the ones you see above. Looking forward to upgrade with love!!!!!!! Mine is a 2007SR5, v6, 420,000 miles. This Weeks Topic: 4Runner Rear Window. You'll also likely have to deal with hood clearance issues as the 3.4L engine sits higher and hits the hood when its closed. The dual overhead camshaft design of the 3.4L lends itself to fuel efficiency and the opportunity for more power upgrades. With the SR5, TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road without KDSS, you will likely have more travel in and an aftermarket suspension. These crossover pipes are a direct bolt up to the factory 2:1 section with the 02 sensor mount. Obviously, find a locker unless you plan on SAS, then 2wd would be a good option because you scrap the axles which would bring locked front and rear, transmission and transfer-case. The only difference is there are no longer roll cage kits for sale as commonly as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gens. Its like an evil villain and Jason started drinking some beers, had a few too many, and the T40R was created. This was a pretty special piece for us to put out. Most owner wont part with them. A General Overview of the5th Gen Toyota 4Runner (2009-Present). It would probably be difficult to do the electronics. Talk to the guys at your local 44 shop, theyll be able to tell you. Look incredible. So, why not? Really enjoyed this build. Top 5 Favorite 5th Gen 4Runner Mods for Overlanding & Off-roading document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); [] surprised the heck out of both of us (Herself more than me, I think). I figured out that my motor (22re) is what was locked up. I will always love the 3rd genearations. I hope whatever 4Runner you choose for Off-Roading or a daily driver or a combination of both, that you have fun in it and enjoy it and stay safe. Not the least of which is brand loyalty! There are also a few tricks to KDSS that make mods easier. So, if you use this as a 44 always be sure to make sure everything is in tip-top shape so you dont break down your rig or blow a head gasket., an article we wrote on the TRD Pro Vs. the TRD Off-Road, It comes fire-road ready out of the gates, our overview of the TRD Pro over the TRD Off-Road, Ellis Precision TRD Shift Knobs 4Runner/ FJ, So Its Been A Minute | Blogging Ashland. This is really awesome! This is the original motor that is 27 years old with over 300k on it. Trail 4Runner participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links or to other retailer sites from Trail4Runner.com. First off lets discuss the 4th gen 4Runner's T case. I think that a really necessary mod for the 3rd gen 4Runner is the swap for a 2001 Tundra front brake set (199 mm). I just cant see spending money on another 2.4 or rebuilding this 140lb motor if I can get 200 lbs for nearly the same money. Instagram: numbersandstuff Cheers. For the 1st Gen 4Runners, you can get bolt-on transmission adaptors to easily install a chevy 350 or a ford 302 with ease for more power if you decide against the stock engine on the 1st Gen 4Runners. But, there are plenty of them out there for spare parts so its not a major concern like 1st and 2nd Gen 4Runners. There are LOTS of upgrades out there for the 3rd gen with many years of experience in the fabrication. I guess I might have to take some measurements to see if it's possible to keep the front drivetrain. We machined the knuckles to fit the 5th gen 4Runner calipers and machined some parts in house to adapt the KDSS system. First released in August 1989 the 2nd Gen 4Runner came with the 4cyl engine again along with the 6cyl, with your choice of a manual or automatic transmission. All Rights Reserved. Thats the look at this and I have no clue why that photos in there! The 22re engine stayed unkillable as long as it was properly maintained but the 3.0 has many issues with a common head gasket issue due to the exhaust drying them out. Well, after all that, now I want to swap a supercharged V8 into my 4Runner. The 1st Gen 4Runner was a 2-door SUV based on the Toyota Hilux with a truck mix. I would recommend rock sliders because the last thing you want to do is tear up your new vehicle by sending a rock through your rocker panel. Thanks, brother!! Kyle, Thanks. If you have any comments, please feel free to comment on any post. It's a 2wd swap, but most of the stuff is still relevant. Is there significal differences depending on stock versions came out of dealer? The most difficult part to source for this swap is the bell housing. Converting A Toyota 3.0L To A 3.4L - Why And How Definitely consider this. Nice job. We need to get it out and play! Picture Credit: Most of these photos were shot and edited by RSG Metalworks employees and fellow Toyota owners; David Todd aka @TrailboundT4R, and Ryan Strate aka @RyanStratePhoto. The 4Runner has been a staple in the SUV market for years and I always felt it had a ton of potential as far as reliability but the off-road ability, power, and stance were lacking. Vendor specials, free gear, giveaway notifications, group buys and more! Daniel, Super appreciate it, man. Glad to hear it. Its pretty great. Head over here and chime in with your recommendations! The two grills have completely different mounting positions and the rad support is completely different. I've had a number of emails me asking questions about it and what makes it harder than doing the swap into a Tacoma. Water-Resistant. I dont think I need to go into any more details on this amazing build. The 4.7l v8 4th Gen 4Runner is perfect if you ever need to tow anything or decide you want to do a massive lift and need the extra power. (The previous owner ran it out of oil, so that doesnt count.) If you destroy a quarter panel or smash a rocker while Off-Roading, you just need to have a parts shop or dismantler shop nearby. Ruby Villalobos (@bitchinbetty4r) 2019 SR5 8. The 4.0 6cyl4th Gen 4Runner does not have any major issues but always be sure to thoroughly look it over. When and where did your automotive life start? Copyright 2023 Trail4Runner.com Trail Made Co. |, but the 3.0 has many issues with a common head gasket issue due to the exhaust drying them out. Interesting suggestions, indeed. Should he stick with a Toyota motor, or save some cash with a sacrilegious GM swap? Ryan Lau (@4runnersaurus) 2021 TRD ORP 2. And every Generation now. They are Gen III engines though, so they have the same modular compatibility. So yes, the 1st gen 4R does come with a 3.0 v6 but only a very limited number of them exist. People use the wrong nomenclature for the 5.3L, prob because they want to feel included by saying they LS swapped it. You might need to get creative and/or do some weldingYoull also have to modify the headlight and possibly turn signal wiring to fit the new bulbs. Lately Ive been getting offers to buy it from strangers off the street on a reg basis . Solid Axle Conversion Kits for Toyota 4Runner | 4 Wheel Parts It was a great SUV. Odds are, if you are looking to prep the 5th Gen for off-road mortal combat, you will need some work. 3rd Gen gal all the way ! Great read guys. There are GREAT benefits to KDSS and not too many downfalls. Now if youre looking for an offroading rig with a touch of class or a vehicle your spouse cant complain about, the 4th Gen 4Runner is for you. Luckily I only scrubbed through the video. The head gasket problem was caused by faulty head bolts for which there was a massive recall. This interview has been in the works for quite some time. With all the write ups online I think Ill tackle wiring myself with plug andplayharness. I have a 1994 SR5 automatic with 228, 000 miles and love it! Granted these are for gear heads that want power. If you want to be sure that your head gasket is solid, FIRST, get your local dealer to run your VIN and see if the recall was done. It took me a while to even find the wiring for it due to how well they wired it up. The 4.0 6cyl 4th Gen 4Runner is perfect if you want a daily driver offroad rig because you can do modifications and still keep the 6cyl mpg, unlike the v8. Yeah Brenan. We will also be going over available Off-Road upgrades for each model (1st-5th Gen) and the benefits of each model. He uses an aftermarket ecu and wiring harness as well as a different accessory drive configuration to fit in there and retain ac. Like everything else these days, you will most likely have to change out more then just the motor as everything is all connected with the electronics. Mike Williams (@bonebroke_pro) 2015 TRD Pro 7. (and chrome is ugly in my opinion). If you can get your hands on a 4th generation V8, I highly recommend this vehicle. Which year do you think is the best? I will note that you missed one not-so-small thing about 4th Gen reliability. While I was in Denver, I wanted to at least find the time to stop by RSG Offroad and say whats up. Vendor specials, free gear, giveaway notifications, group buys and more! This one goes over the r. An Off-Road Overview of the 5th Gen Toyota 4Runner (2009-2018+Present). Thanks. Engine Swap Kit Toyota / Scion / Lexus Truck Hilux/Tacoma - CXRACING With the addition of the 4.7l v8, the 4th Gen 4Runner is perfect if you want a beast on the trails. If you want to see and hear another video clip, check this out. Very interesting to see the evolution of one of the best off roaring vehicles ever! Yeah I wasn't expecting the Engine ECM to be the same. 5.7 Tundra V8 Swap | Toyota 4Runner Forum [4Runners.com] I love my 2002 Toyota 4Runner SR5. The 5th Gen 4Runner can be purchased in a variety of models including; classic SR5, Trail, TRD Pro, TRD Off-Road, and Limited which are all great for Off-Road. Ive been trying to decide which 4Runner will be the best for what I need it for, and this article has helped me make that decision. WOW, I knew my 98 Limited was made in Japan, but didnt know 4th Gen Runners were too! I am probably missing something. Yes, you read that right. So now Im going to sell it and get a 4 Runner. (Frame rotted out) My 3rd one is still kicking. A General Overview of the4th Gen Toyota 4Runner 2003-2009, 4th Gen 4Runner Shot Cred: @uncharteredmedia Driver: @augustconte. Its a beast. I need to finish up my Tacoma and focus on my Land Cruisers. Congrats on the new addition, Shane! These engines came standard with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. In late 2017, RSG started building their own armor, including their first set of rock sliders to fit the growing demand for the offroad community. With this being said, you are going to need more than a basic suspension upgrade that comes stock on an off-the-lot model. As far as ls swaps I've been looking into it off and on. Toyota diesel engines models: 2L's, 2L-T's, 3L's and 5L 's for sale in the greater Los Angeles area: Engine Trend Inc George 4515 S.Soto Street Los Angeles,CA 90058 USA Ph: 1-800-939-3295 Ph: (323) 589-2844 www.enginetrend.com Spector Offroad Marv 21600 Nordhoff St Chatsworth,CA 91311 USA Ph: (818) 882-1238 www.sor.com Reseda Engines in Northridge LIGHTDIMS Original Strength - Light Dimming LED Covers and Light Dimming Sheets for Routers, Electronics and Appliances and More. I was looking at an LQ9 that was local to me at the time.