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Best gen for offroading rig? And engine questions...

Discussion in 'General 4Runner Talk' started by Desertrunner24, Aug 12, 2017.

  1. Aug 12, 2017 at 7:29 PM
    #1
    Desertrunner24

    Desertrunner24 [OP] New Member

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    Hi everyone :wave:. Just joined, came over from Tacoma world. Question I have is I have been looking for a 2nd or 3rd gen with a v6 or i4 4wd. What are somethings I should look out for trans wise? Also is the 3.0l a problem engine compared to the 3.4l. I have the opportunity to trade for a 91 3.0 with 130k on the clock. Truck is basically stock. So which gen is preferable? Plan is to be mostly offroad as an exploring camping rig.
     
  2. Aug 12, 2017 at 10:54 PM
    #2
    Bob

    Bob Member Staff Member

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    Welcome over!
     
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  3. Aug 12, 2017 at 11:03 PM
    #3
    Desertrunner24

    Desertrunner24 [OP] New Member

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    Thanks for changing the title. Didn't know what I should put :thumbsup:
     
  4. Aug 13, 2017 at 1:48 PM
    #4
    thefatkid

    thefatkid New Member

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    They are both good bases for 4wheeling. If you can't afford a 3rd gen the 2nds are still nice.

    The 3rd has some big benefits:
    *More engine power in both the 4 and 6 cylinder platforms. The 4 cylinder in the 3 gen actually has almost the same power as the v6 in the 2nd gen.
    *stronger front end parts for wheeling as far as the differential and CV axles. The ball joints could be considered a negative.
    *more aftermarket support for 4wd parts (lifts, bumpers, racks, such)
    *rear hatch opens up for cover from rain and if the window fails, still opens.
     
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  5. Aug 13, 2017 at 2:16 PM
    #5
    Desertrunner24

    Desertrunner24 [OP] New Member

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    Does the 3rd gen have the e locker?
     
  6. Aug 13, 2017 at 4:49 PM
    #6
    thefatkid

    thefatkid New Member

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    Some, I'd say about 1/3 of them came with the locker. That locker can be cut into both generations if they didn't come with it originally
     
  7. Aug 13, 2017 at 5:04 PM
    #7
    Desertrunner24

    Desertrunner24 [OP] New Member

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    Thank you for the reply. I know I can just swap rear ends or just put an ARB locker in. Any info on the trans for dependability. I would prefer a 5 speed. But if the right one comes along with an auto which one would you prefer?
     
  8. Aug 13, 2017 at 8:13 PM
    #8
    thefatkid

    thefatkid New Member

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    The A340 (automatic) family of transmissions are generally robust. I've seen many over 500k miles without issues. If they were abused and/or fluid was not serviced they can suffer shorter lifespans. I prefer the 3rd generation in this case as the earlier 2nd gen transmission incorporated the transfer case into one unit.
     
  9. Aug 13, 2017 at 8:54 PM
    #9
    Desertrunner24

    Desertrunner24 [OP] New Member

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    Thank you for your time and the info
     

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