my 4 runner options

[anthony90si]

hi guys my 88 4runner recently was stolen. and i would like to replece it. i want to look into a v6, are those reliable engins, do they take alot more gas then the 22re (or less??) is the automatic is tough tranny or should i go for a manual one.also what year did they start making the model with independent front suspension and what was the last year or the convertable. i would like to keep the same model i had. was the years 87-89?
thanks for you help

[forest_grump]

V6 3.0L 4runners are gutless gas guzzlers and if you look up HP and Ft Lbs produced between the 4 and 6's on years like my own 92 SR5 4x4 V6 A/T you will see they are same on HP and very close on Ft Lbs...And yes to question on when they started on IFS (Independent Front Suspension)and last year of pop-tops..both changes took place very closely together...most perfer the earlier straight front axle setup for more serious off road use but many that drive mostly on the streets like the more comfortable ride offered by the IFS

[forest_grump]

Now the 3.4L V6 4x4 4runner on the other hand gives you alot more pep and performance both on and offroad as well as better MPG.....that will be my next motor wheather retrofiting or changing rides completely...goodluck and hope this helps

[anthony90si]

so you saying that i should stick with the 22re(4 cyl) cause i found those really gutless with the 32'' tires on..

[corbinwaterski]

You will find the V-6 will leave you with that same "gutless" feeling as the 4 cyl. IMO I would stick with the 4 cyl - better gas mileage, cheaper, easier to find, reliability...

[anthony90si]

oh ok thanks guys
i am definately gonna think about this now. the only reason that i wanted a v6 is because my friend had one and he said it had alot of power.

[forest_grump]

Originally Posted by anthony90si

oh ok thanks guys
i am definately gonna think about this now. the only reason that i wanted a v6 is because my friend had one and he said it had alot of power.

Your friend may not know the difference or has may have either a 4.0 or the more efficient 3.4L...I would strongly advise against 31x10.50's or bigger tires on a 4cylinder engine if main driving is on the streets...they are not worth the "kewl" look while they are lugging motor down from stoplight to stoplight...best of luck

[anthony90si]

ya mabey he does. i am gonna take a closer look at his runner asap. and i often go off roading with it and play in the snow so thats why i stick with bigger tires. i know it play a big part in power and gas milage but its the price i have to pay.
thanks

[corbinwaterski]

You can always re-gear the 4 Cyl, which would help out alot with the bigger tires!

[91 funrunner]

Originally Posted by corbinwaterski

You can always re-gear the 4 Cyl, which would help out alot with the bigger tires!

I have a 91 3.0 w/ some mods and i can chirp my 32's and i get pretty good gas mileage.Stock it was to plugged up it just needs to breath. Of course a 3.4 has more power but i dont have 1 soooo....

[anthony90si]

yup gears would definately help! does anyone know what the stock gears were in a 22re. it was a 88 if it makes a difference