4.7L V8 Maintenance?

Hello all,

I've driven a 2003 2WD 4Runner Sport Edition with the 4.7L V8 for five years. Got it at 150k miles and it now has just shy of 180k. I love the truck in every way and want to make sure it lasts as long as possible. It's my first car and I have limited mechanical experience so I wanted to try and gather advice on the most important maintenance to make these 4.7L V8 models last a long time.

Here's a list of the general stuff that I've done to it:

• Timing belt replaced at 150k
• Transmission fluid changed at 150k
• Oil changed regularly (whenever maintenance light comes on)
• Coolant changed frequently (partially due to a leak that drains the liquid over time)
• Brake rotors & pads changed within the last 5k miles

There are no obvious mechanical problems, no warnings on the dash, and I run regular fuel instead of premium with no issues.

Any tips on how to keep it running for another 100k are much appreciated!

- Nick

 

Find and fix the coolant leak, hopefully you replaced the water pump when you did the timing belt, if not it could be leaking and could cause deterioration of the timing belt, check the corners of the radiator for common leak areas, and the thermostat housing area.

 

Check your exhaust manifold also. They're know to have hair line crack.

 

If you havent also look at the 3 differentials oil. Steering fluid. Brake fluid. Also take a look at the forward part of the passenger frame rails right around the alternator area. The AC condensate drain is there and factory drain line just has it drain onto the frame itself, leading to rust. If you can Id recommend attaching an extension on it to drain farther away, I think I used 1/4 or 3/8 ID to do so

 

Great first truck to have!! Got myself an ‘06 v8 4Runner. Bought it at 158k miles It’s now at 288k and still has strong engine power etc. Some advice:
-Run full synthetic (pennzoil, valvoline, mobile 1 I use)
-wash underbody periodically
-don’t jack rabbit lights or brake short
-be on schedule for oil changes/tire inflation rotation
-change filters on time.

 

Will do! Thanks for the reply!

 

Ah I'll check it out, thanks!