Toyota 4Runner Accessories

highlander7

It has great sound quality.....

The DOHC 32 valve EFI 4.7 liter V8 engine in the 4Runner cannot be compared to that 4 cyc. Honda Civic. This engine has 235 HP and 320 ft. lbs. of torque. If you want even better sound add the TRD Supercharger and a Borla exhaust and you are pushing 360 HP and 430 ft. lbs. of torque, with these modifications this truck is a rocket.

I installed a dual Borla cat back system on my 04 V8 4Runner last Friday and it does have a good sound. This 4.7 engine is used in the Land Cruiser, Tundra, Sequoia, and now the 4Runner. This is a real V8 and with a performance exhaust system like the Borla, it really sounds good. Plus it gives you a noticeable increase in HP.
I am very satisfied.

With only 650 miles on my truck, cannot wait until I have over 1000 (break in) so I can use the added performance of the Borla. So much for gas mileage!

corancher

Sometimes I regret it when I don't trust my own instincts, and this is one of those times (see post #267). The Wheelskins cover came yesterday and it's too big. Specifically, the recommended cover size is too big for the actual grip circumference, and so it can't be sewn up tight.

The situation is apparently as I suspected: If your wheel already has a leather grip you should order the recommended size C. If your wheel doesn't have a cover, order size AXX.

The folks at Wheelskins say they're updating their database and will send me the proper size. I'll send this one back and then I can report on the quality, fit, and installation difficulty of this product.

[Deleted User]

cornacher -

Sorry to hear that. I don't really understand why someone who has a factory leather wheel would want to put a wheelskin over it... wonder what they were thinking when they did their measuring. I'm sure that has happened to other people too.

I've also seen a few web sites out there who will professionally add leather (factory style and look) to your steering wheel and will even add wood accents (like on the escalades, navigators, etc)... but you have to remove the steering wheel and send it in. they say it takes a week or so. I cam across several that looked real good, I wish I could remember the web sites. I don't think this is practical since i'm sure it would be quite a chore removing the steering wheel and driving without one for that matter!

oriente

I am interested in dual exhausts for my 4R V8. I see that all discussions here center around the Borla system. I understand that this is the only system supported by Toyota warranty; but aside from that, can anybody tell me why one could not pursue a true dual exhaust? I realize that to keep it legal 2 catalytic converters would be necessary. Perhaps this is an installation issue, or perhaps the cost is too high. But last I checked, Borla is asking $809 for a few pieces of pipes....unreasonable, I think.

corancher

oriente, I don't think there is any blanket prohibition against changes that would involve the cats (and their associated oxygen sensors and the engine computer software), but to be legal these changes would have to be EPA certified for emissions and durability. That's likely too big a job to be practical for the comparatively small sales that an exhaust system manufacturer would get.

The job would likely be a little easier for the V6, since it maintains (IIRC) a dual system through both cats on each side.

oriente

corancher,
Good points; I overlooked the rest of the pollution equation, beyond just having the cats. Thanks, I will continue further efforts in the catback direction.

4runtexas

what about for those of us with the V6 that choose to go with the dual exhaust....

i have the V6 engine (chose it on account of the 10 extra hp tickled my fancy,although it is not much, and i will tow all but nothing, so there was no need at all for the V8, which infact is only .2 seconds faster than the V6 ( a problem solved with a couple very simple mods)

although many of you seem to care less about the actual speed of the 4runner, i realize this vehicle is not made to be much of a speedster though.

how will this exhaust sound on the V6?...better? worse? about the same? does anyone have the borla kit installed on the V6?

newswords

Has anyone tried connecting a laptop pc to the ac outlet inside the 4runner's center console? The manual seems to imply that this is not recommended - but I'm wondering if a portable surge protector would shield any voltage fluctuations. Also, would the pc's battery protect it as well?

oriente

4runtexas,
Where did you get the 0-60 data on these two? I have not been able to find it anywhere and I am curious........I am surprised at such a small (0.2 Sec) advantage for the V8, especially when in addition to the considerably higher torque, it has a 5-speed AT, vs. 4 for the V6. I would be interested in the rest of the times, 1/4 mi, etc.
Thanks.

yabedude

(copied from the main 4Runner forum)

I have a 2003 V8 Sport w/JBL 10 speakers. I purchased my children a set of wireless headsets. They love them. I don't want to lose the wireless feature and decided to install a 2nd deck (Alpine 9815) that plays MP3's and is a much better deck in my opinion; a 2nd subwoofer for this 3rd party deck and also swap out the back speakers. Before I do any of that, I'm going to install a good quality Clifford alarm as these standard door alarms are pretty much useless as a thief can bust a window and climb on in to clean me out without a peep.

My plan is to use a DB25 printer A/B switch (removed from the bulky metal case) and solder most of the JBL and Alpine wires into it which should allow me to listen to one or the other, while leaving the kids with the wireless headsets listening to JBL -- not that they'll hear much with the alpine thumpin' ;-) I haven't decided what available accessory slot I'll use, but possible just under my right arm in the console.

Has anyone pulled the dash or console apart yet? Anyone have any tips or gotcha's to look out for? According to a service fellow at the dealership, he warned that all the panels are in place using clips with little to no screws. He went on to explain that the 4-Runner is very snug (obvious) but that it's not an easy chore to disassemble/reassemble. They seem to dread having to work behind the dash.

I don't have a concern with the wiring side, but surely don't want to break any panels. I'm curious if anyone else had any projects along this line and can offer some first hand experience.

alfster1

Here is some info that I found in the MotorTrend Dec 2002 issue:

Performance figures for the 2003 V8 4Runner

0-60mph - 7.8 sec
1/4 mi - 15.9
60-0mph - 135ft
200ft skidpad - .68g
600ft slalom - 57.1 mph

This was the best performing SUV out of the SUVs tested for the MT SUV of the Year 2003.

Performance figures for the V6 powered 4Runner are comparable. I have seen 0-60mph figures of 8.0sec online, but I can't quote a source. Both are speedy vehicles, but that shouldn't be a deciding factor in choosing between the V6 and V8 since there is hardly any difference.

[Deleted User]

Heck with the numbers. I have a V6 and not only is it quick but it always has power at the tap of the gas, regardless of speed. I couldn't justify purchasing a V8 unless you plan on doing any towing. If you never tow anything, go with the V6, better mileage and feels just as quick.

hotdogonastick

i've been getting an avg of 18/22 with a v8 4wd. mind you i'm only driving the speed limit in city and no more than 75 on hwy. this is also with the trd sc. i guess it also depends on how/where we drive.

alfster1

You are getting 18/22 on a V8 4runner with a Supercharger?! No way...That is remarkable. What speed would you say you average and what fuel type do you use?

oriente

It would be interesting to find out what type fuel V6 and V8 owners are using. Of course the mileage depends very much on what size shoe you wear; in my V8 I get 15+ to17+ in the city, but once my son borrowed it, it came back with 13+! As far as fuel, I gave up using regular (87); I find it performing better with high test (93), and that agrees with the owner's manual.
On the dual exhaust issue, it seems only Borla makes it, and the lowest I have found so far is $819, plus $70 to $150 for installation.

[Deleted User]

I have a V6 03 4Runner. I almost always use the "cheap" stuff, 87 octane. I tried the premium a few times but never noticed any difference. I only have that rotten egg smell once in a blue moon under heavy acceleration, but i'm pretty sure it's not the gas i'm using. My computer says I average 18.4mpg (lead foot). My own observation proved to be around 17, but then again most people agree the computer is off by 1 or 2 mpg.

sacstate1

oriente: Check out Performance Products, they have the dual Borla for $739. You can install the system yourself, takes a 14mm socket and about 45 minutes. There are only two bolts that attach to the stock cat using the stock gasket. The rest of the installation is welded hangers that pop into place using rubber grommets and post. If you have the ability, don't pay $150 for $20 worth of work. This is easier than changing your oil.

I use 93 octane 99% of the time, 89 the other 1%. No sulphur smell and I average 21.7 mpg @ 26 mph with 10,041 miles on the odo.

alfster1

Personally, I use 87 octane almost exclusively for my 2003 V8 Limited. I don't experience the sulfur smell unless I have the misfortune of purchasing what may be a "bad batch of gas" and having the rear cargo window opened or after heavy acceleration once in awhile. I have just over 6000 miles to date. My mileage is pretty consistent with 17mpg city and 20mpg on the highway, assuming I drive at around 60-65mph. I've made no modifications to the engine or to the exhaust system.

toyboxx

You guys are getting some amzing mileage numbers out of your V8's. By real calculations I don't get better than 14.5 mpg, and that is when the dash readout is saying 15.3 mpg. And plus the factory sticker rated the mpg at 15/17.

I'm not complaining because I went into this purchase expecting this.

Are all your mpg numbers calculated or did you read it off the dash? (because I can tell you that the dash readout can be very optomistic)

sacstate1

I look at the mpg thing as a standard or baseline. I use the onboard computer(optimistic by 2mpg), but as long as the gauge reads the same within the standard I am not concerend. I bought the V8 knowing what to expect. Wahooooo!

alfster1

Are you sure about the 15/17 that you mentioned?

According to the Toyota website, V8 figures for the 2004 4Runner are 15/19. I know, picky, but we need every mpg This is funny. For the 2003 V8, the mpg was listed as 16/19. I wonder what is the reason for this small discrepancy? Oh well. Que sera sera....

hotdogonastick

i have to use 91 because of the sc. we are not as lucky as other parts of the country that have higher grades. i also do slow starts off the line because i too get the sulfur smell if i accelerate too hard. i also got the v8 expecting 15/19 and it is a treat to be getting better than epa's ratings.

oriente

sacstate1, I just checked Performance Products. The item for $739 is a single pipe system. They actually indicate that the Borla does not exist for the 2003 4R. Thanks anyway.

toyboxx

You're right it did say 15/19 on the sticker...and that is a 2003 built in January 2003. Regardless I am just barely achieving that figure. I only have 3000 miles on the truck so I hope it gets a little better.

Sacstate, again I'm not complaining (now my landcruiser...that was something to complain about). I'm just wondering if people are REALLY getting two or three mpg better than me with the same truck and engine.

hotdogonastick

i was told that a proper break in period is important for the truck to "reach optimal performance" (sorry i can't remember the source)-in terms of power and gas milage. it worked for me. but it also depends because all engines are not always the same.

alfster1

That is true...I think the breakin period for the 4Runner is 500mi, but I could be mistaken. Break-in periods are indeed important to enhance overall engine life. Nevertheless, I am still impressed with your mileage. I would have a celebration if I were you Perhaps I should try using higher octane to see if I will realize any additional mpg (although the government says otherwise).

toyboxx

I use 93 octane in my truck so I don't think that will make a difference in mileage (at laest in my case it doesn't).

Technically speaking, should you expect to get better or worse mpg with a supercharger. (I'm assuming worse than normal mpg with the s/c)

corancher

Some interesting posts here. In my experience the trip computer is quite consistent, but about 2 MPG optimistic.

Also in my experience, mileage can vary widely depending on what you're doing. I'd estimate the practical range (if you're not towing) to be about 15-25 MPG. If you're knocking around town, climbing some hills, and have 3-5 people in the vehicle, you'll get around 15. If you're alone on a mainly level highway trip at 60 MPH without a headwind you'll get 25 MPG. Seems like the V6 is typically a little less than 2 MPG better than the V8, but certain conditions (towing? hill climbing?) negate the difference.

The 0.2 second difference in 0-60 times is believable, based on my driving of both models. Torque and HP both factor into these times as do transmission and weight differences. Even transmission programming will make a difference. 0.2 second is about 1 car length when you reach 60 and I'll bet that the V8 shows that advantage in the first few car lengths due to its torque at low RPMS and perhaps gearing. The V6 has the advantage of lighter weight and a slightly more efficient driveline (assume you use it in 2WD mode) and a little more horsepower. For this reason, the V6 might be faster in top speed, but I bet that would depend on gearing. And air resistance, of course. That increases approximately geometrically with speed, and the curve is pretty steep for such a blunt-ended vehicle above 80 MPH!

slitor

If you want the Borla dual exhaust, go to

Exhaustprosline.com 888-413-7767 ask for Angela. I got mine for $650 shipped.

oriente

I found it extremely disappointing when I read in the owner's manual that no chains were allowed on the front wheels of my V8, AWD 4R. I recall in my younger years in Cuba that the Land Rover we had was practically unstoppable in the mud when we put the 4 chains on it. Why not the 4R which is supposed to be an off road champ amongst SUV's? Any actual experiences with chains (car wise)?

grubbs1

How much louder is the Borla compared to the stock exhaust? Also, how much is the claimed increase in power? Lastly, how much do you FEEL the increase in power when you punch the pedal?

If indeed I could purchase this add-on for $650, and depending on your and other's input, it may be worth the expense. The toughest part would be finding a way to justify the expense to the Mrs.

Thanks!

grubbs1

Regarding your posting on December 18, is the skid pad of .68 for a 4runner with xreas?

If not, would having xreas increase the skid pad number or would it only be a perceived improvement?

oriente

Thanks. I placed my order today. The price is now $675 + approx $30 shipping. The item is out of stock at Borla, so it will take a couple weeks.
grubbs1, I plan to run some before & after acceleration tests that I would post here, but dont bet on it. By the way, I told my wife this was planned from the beginning and was part of the initial cost.....Of course, I am waiting for retaliation.

baki44

I don't understand why we have to explain our blond wifes about any car problems??? Even we tell them they don't see the differences!!! Tell her watch Dr. Phil...
Have a nice HOLIDAYS

alfster1

I havne't actually evaluated it, but I believe it may be more of a perceived difference. The X-REAS system is intended to basically "level out" the vehicle in turns. I don't believe there is any source for testing of the skid pad for X-REAS equipped 4Runners in this manner.

biff22

Got this idea from another forum.

http://f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/victoriom@sbcglobal.net/album?.d- ir=/Runner+mods&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http- %3a//f1.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/victoriom@sbcglobal.net/my_photos

alfster1

I wasn't able to access that site....Is there something special that I need to do? I received a message saying
 
  The File You Are Looking For Is Inaccessible.

stever

Worked ok for me just now.

Steve, Host

alfster1

Everything is A-OK with the link. Thanks for posting it. I have been thinking of activating the rear set of lower lights. Seeing an example of this is a nice incentive to go ahead and do it.

bryancos

I reposted the instructions for this mod on Edmunds in this thread. Enjoy.

biff22

Listen to this guy, he is the one I got this idea from. If its wasn't for him I would not have done this mod. The write up on the instructions are easy to follow.

hotdogonastick

i read the same thing on pg 344 about only using chains on the rear wheels only...what's the reasoning behind it.

oriente

That's what I would like some expert to tell me. I cant imagine how the transfer case will work properly with chains on the rear only. My guess is that the front is perhaps too weak.

hotdogonastick

after a bit of thinking (anyone correct me if i'm wrong) i concluded that: after i sized up my chains on the runner (since i had them for a year but never used them) i noticed that there were only enough for 2 wheels. then i realized that for fwd cars the chains go on the front wheels; likewise for rwd the chains go on the rears. so i thought 4wd cars? power to all 4 wheels...then it hit me - 40/60 rear bias under normal conditions. added traction to the wheels with the most power - possibly the reason to put chains only on the rears (also since chains comes in a set of 2). mechanically i do not see a problem with putting chains on all drive wheels to maximize traction in snow (or mud). fwd/rwd don't need chains on the non-powered wheels since they just "follow" the drive wheels and won't make as much difference in contributing to sliding out of control.

mechfred

I think it is a clearance reason on front as wheels are turned back and forth it may hit the fender wells as not to happen on fixed rears.mechfred.

cdnbazza

Can anybody help me out here?
I'm looking for a bull bar (bush guard) for my 2003 4Runner that will work for off road driving but will also encompass the front bumper to give me some parking lot protecting from that piece of plastic that Toyota use as an excuse as a bumper. I've managed to find the ideal part but...... it's for the Australian Toyota Prado.

http://www.prado.toyota.com.au/Prado03/Portal/0,1224,157-190,00.h- tml

If you look carefully you will see that the Prado is almost identical to the North American 4Runner, with a few cosmetic body changes. I've contacted Toyota Canada AND Toyota Australia but I can't get any info out of them on whether the Aussie Bull Bar will work on my 4Runner. Would there be anybody out there who can shed some light on this and let me know if it would fit. It's such a great Bull Bar I'm willing to get one shipped up here if it'll fit.

hotdogonastick

what about the fwd/rwd cars that use chains on their drive wheels - for maximun traction? clearly their turning radius is decreased as well. they can't put the chains on their fixed wheels since it defeats the purpose of gaining traction - if they do then their wheels will spin. but i see your point where maneuverability is greater without front chains and make sense with toyota's recommendation. i have put chains on a 96 accord and sized up chains (cables) on my 4wd sport and noticed better clearance on the runner. drivability wasn't too bad on the accord in the snow/ice in big bear. aside from this clearance problem, are there any other mechanical problems with putting chains on the front (aside from the rears). i'm just curious about the front chain topic posted on #304 - and was wondering if chains on all 4's is possible [although in most snow/mud situations we wont even need it].

mechfred

using chains on any type of drive 2 wheel,4 wheel,all wheel,0ne wheel( motorcycle)one has to be sure you have clearance for the chains, cables,etc. Also the extra strain on the drive train obtained with all the traction gained can damage the running gear by the grabbing of rocks and jarring to the drive train as you gain traction. The center diff.may not be able to take it with chains on all 4 wheels Toyota would have to tell us why. All drive trains will break or wear out quicker with the use of chains.mechfred.

mechfred

Using chains on the front wheels could get caught in the open drive shafts or lock up the steering if you throw a chain which I have had happen on older jeeps but they had closed drive axels.This may be why Toyota does not recommend this.mechfred.

xgrid

That Sovereign bullbar looks good. I also like the look of the over bumper bullbar. Both look better than some of the Brush/Grille guards I have seen on the market. How come toyota doesn't offer the same accesories in the US? I have been looks for a decent set of Grille guard

cdnbazza, If you do end up ordering, let us know how it comes out and how much it costs. Thanks.