2.7 Tacomas?

yamagirl · 12-29-2006, 07:55 PM

Hubby is thinking of a economical truck to commute to work with. We have no knowledge of the 2.7`s with an auto. Weve had some 22r powered stuff and were happy but hows the 2.7? in particular we wondered about...
1.Timing belt or chain?
2.Screw type valve adjusters or shim/bucket?
3. Power and economy? 25+ mpg in a 2wd and how about going up say a 6% five mile long grade.
Any opinions geatly appricated.

mmayotaman · 12-29-2006, 08:04 PM

I have a 97' with the 2.7 i love it, i got great mpg until i put bigger tires on it, it still gets good mpg, has a good amount of power as well. Have had no probs so i have no complaints.

tacoma728 · 12-29-2006, 08:05 PM

The engine with stock tires does great if mated to a five speed. I have a four wheel drive SR5, and I found that stock, the engine did great with get up and go speed and torque. Hauls plenty and is a good engine. Will climb hills with stock tires well.

yamagirl · 12-29-2006, 08:09 PM

We were looking at new ones but they said 4x4/2.7 combo is not made. But we looked at a used one, 05 xtra cab,4x4,2.7,auto. Is the dealeer blowing smoke up our .......backsides?

tacoma728 · 12-29-2006, 08:15 PM

Speaking from my experience, the 2.7 liter is a great engine, but I regret not getting the V6, now I am stuck with no larger than 33" tires, and wondering if I will ever make it up that long hill on the highway. Regearing at this time is not an option, so go for the V6

tacoma728 · 12-29-2006, 08:18 PM

The 2.7/4x4 combo is made, at least it was. I don't know about the new ones, but the fuel economy even with the 4x4 is quite acceptable.

spaugh · 12-29-2006, 08:50 PM

I don't own a 2.7 but I have a friend with at 97 4runner with 2wd, 2.7L engine, and a stick shift. Seems like he gets good milage and can still haul ass. I think the stick would make more sense than an auto with a 4 banger.

Toyota Mike · 12-29-2006, 09:10 PM

I have a manual 2.7 and love it. I get very good gas mileage out of it.

Nic · 12-29-2006, 10:53 PM

I have a 2.7L 4X4. It's manual and not an auto though.

I can easily get in the upper 20s in MPG in if I drive right. It is not a speed machine, but I have no problems getting it up to 80 or 90 on the interstate if I have to-not that I drive that fast.

I can't power up long (steep) grades, but I expected that when I bought it.

I would think a 2WD 2.7L should have plenty of power for the hwy.

They have timing chains. Never messed with the valves. If you have had the 22R, I think you will like the 2.7L as much or probably better. I have.

TACOKRAWL · 12-30-2006, 07:32 PM

If you get a 2.7 litre, grt a 5spd. Trust me, you won't regret it. It is in my opinion one of the best plants Toyota ever made, and has great potential for build-up. The 2.7 mated to an automatic would be downright sluggish, esp. with larger than stock tires. The valves are shim and bucket, as are most late model toyota truck engines, much like the BMW Motorsport engines of the late 1980's and early 1990's. They require periodic adjustment, but I just pull the valvecover and check mine on every 3rd oil change. I have 67,000 miles on my rig and mine have always been within spec. I would prefer a 3RZ to a 5VZ anyday, but that is simply my personal opinion based on gas mileage and service needs i.e. timingbelt.

tom_mag · 01-01-2007, 01:39 AM

I have a 2.7 auto 2wd 4runner and I think the power is fine, and judging from what my other car is, thats saying a lot. It is the torqueiest non-turbo 4cyl I have ever driven. It has enough midrange torque to accelerate from 60-70 without downshifting from overdrive. I always leave ECT power on. The engine is quiet and the shifting is smooth so the tranny doesn't have to jerk the car into 2nd just to speed up 5mph on the freeway. It can be sluggish at certain rpms or with a full load, but if you put the pedal down it will get the job done. Their is a 2 mile long 7% grade on the freeway near where I live. I can accelerate up to 80mph on that grade. I drive hard and fast and I get 20-24mpg.
I would recommend that you test drive one. I test drove 4 and 6 cyl 4runners and I would say the acceleration is similar between the two at full throttle. The biggest difference in the 6 is that it has much better acceleration below 4000rpm.

blakjak · 01-01-2007, 06:40 AM

I can go on Toyota's website right now and find regular and access cabs with 2.7 4x4. However, you just can't get a 2.7 with the auto. It only comes as an option with the V6.

http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/2007/...ccess_cab.html

I have an 03 access cab with the 2.7 4x4 and I think it's just fine. Granted I have the 5 speed and I don't think I'd go with an auto with the 4 cylinder myself but I don't know that it would make much of a difference performance-wise. The 2.7 will do just fine on whatever you throw at it, but you just have to remember that it's a 4 cylinder and not to expect V8 performance out of it. If you think your situation warrants a larger engine, (i.e. you may be towing something or hauling a load regularly) then go for the V6. Otherwise, I'd bet the 2.7 will be just fine for you.

Skrillah · 01-01-2007, 09:46 AM

I own a '97 4x4 auto 4runner. Best vehicle I have ever owned, it currently has 132000 miles on her and is running better than new.

The 2.7 does have a chain, and is a non-interference engine. Because of this, maintenance on this engine is a breeze compared to the 3.4.

I get about 18 mpg with a mix of highway and city. I also engage 4wd once a week or so,so that may bog me down as well. I am running about 32" tires (265x75rx16) and I do have a 1 inch lift also.

I think they are screw type valve adjusters, I'm not 100% on this but I find it hard to believe they are the shim-bucket type.

Unless you're looking for a vehicle to tow, you won't be dissapointed with the 2.7L. It is a simply one of the best engines toyota made,the only real problem that I've heard with these and was a problem for me too was the exhaust manifold was cracked and had to be replaced. Took me a bout 3 hrs, those bolts are a $#%@# to get off. Anyhow, again, I have found plenty of power out of the 4x4 auto for my needs. I do tow a 3000lb boat a short distance as well so it can be done. I think you get my point, you can't go wrong with the 2.7!

sauer · 01-02-2007, 10:27 PM

I have a 1997 4 runner with a 2.7L 5speed. It's like a tank. Seriously it's funny how much I like my 4 runner even though I need to whip it up hill. I wish it had more power, but you cant win them all I guess.

JLSpeed · 01-23-2007, 09:16 PM

I have a `97 Tacoma 2.7L 5spd with 144,xxx on it. I've had it for two years, and it's one of my favorite vehicles thus far. I just drove it on a 900mile+ round trip from baltimore to north carolina. It performed the task flawlessly and maintained 23-24mpg. This is, might I ad, through the mountains of western Virginia. I love this truck, my only complaint is lack of midrange power. Would I buy another 2.7L? Probably not. I'm opting for the 3.4 in my next Toyota; but do I regret the purchase of my truck? Absolutely not. Damn good vehicle.

Pozi · 01-24-2007, 12:49 PM

This is not meant to hi-jack the thread but is there a source for these engines? I am looking to swap the engine/trans combo into a early model Volvo.

vrrodri · 01-24-2007, 03:00 PM

My 1999 Taco 2.7L 4X4 is auto, so they are available.
I am not getting good mpg now but this is due to a slight misfire I am trying to diagnose and also the 33" tires on it. Other than that, it is a good truck. I am now getting around 15mpg mixed.

tacoma728 · 01-24-2007, 03:14 PM

I like the 2.7 liter in my 2000 tacoma, but the gears are way too high stock and would do better with 4.10s. Tangent.

Tacoclimber · 01-24-2007, 03:37 PM

Get the 2.7. Seriously. It's the next best thing to a 22R as far as reliability goes. Owned a 99 Tacoma 4x4, 2.7 5spd for almost 3 years, and it never let me down once. I love the extra power of the 3.4 I have now, but the difference in mpg is noticeable.

Good luck!

bktaco · 01-24-2007, 10:27 PM

the 2.7L engine is a great choice for your hubby's commuter. i have been commuting in mine for seven years. substantially more and smoother power than the 22rs. with 115000 miles my truck runs like new, or better since i have a good header and other minor modifications (toyota limited the aspiration of this engine, it can certainly benefit from a little more air than factory setup allows).

its already been said, but it might be wise to get the truck with manual transmission. if you're looking for 2wd, auto is probably fine too. also been said already, but the 2.7 is not well suited for regular hauling. for a commuter and occasional city hauling, that truck will do great and last forever.

tragerbon · 01-26-2007, 04:22 PM

I had a 97 standard cab 2.7 5-speed, like everyone else said...plenty of power and good gas mileage. I now have 2000 ext cab 2.7 auto with 33s and a camper top, gas mileage is not as good as it was, I have more than enough power and torque (its not a cobra), however I do live in the south...no hills here, If I purchased another tacoma, it would have to be a 2.7. I have seen the new 2.7 4x4 5-speeds, no autos, I dont think they make the 4x4 2.7 auto anymore,
2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Black Sand Pearl
2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Desert Sand Mica
2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Graphite
2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Impulse Red Pearl
2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Indigo Ink Pearl
2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Radiant Red
I found a few !!

jdsdj98 · 01-26-2007, 10:58 PM

I'm another happy 2.7 owner. Got a '95 4WD, 5 spd Tacoma. At 231K now having had no major problems, I'm dead set on getting 300K out of it before I make it my second vehicle and pick up a little commuter car. I presently get 19-20 mpg mixed, 22-23 highway mpg. It has a chain instead of a belt, so it's a fairly low maintenance engine. Not sure about valve maintenance. As has been stated, it's not the most powerful, but I have no problems with it around town. Living in Colorado, the lack of power is very noticeable to me once I head "up the hill," so to speak. That being said, I'll sacrifice a little power for longevity (belt vs. chain) any day.

12-29-2006, 07:55 PM	#1 (permalink)
yamagirl Registered User Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 14	2.7 Tacomas? Hubby is thinking of a economical truck to commute to work with. We have no knowledge of the 2.7`s with an auto. Weve had some 22r powered stuff and were happy but hows the 2.7? in particular we wondered about... 1.Timing belt or chain? 2.Screw type valve adjusters or shim/bucket? 3. Power and economy? 25+ mpg in a 2wd and how about going up say a 6% five mile long grade. Any opinions geatly appricated.

12-29-2006, 08:50 PM	#7 (permalink)
spaugh Contributing Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: San Diego Posts: 529	I don't own a 2.7 but I have a friend with at 97 4runner with 2wd, 2.7L engine, and a stick shift. Seems like he gets good milage and can still haul ass. I think the stick would make more sense than an auto with a 4 banger. __________________ 2002 Supercharged Limited TRD 4x4 5Spd Tacoma

12-29-2006, 10:53 PM	#9 (permalink)
Nic Registered User Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Decatur, Alabama Posts: 1,042	I have a 2.7L 4X4. It's manual and not an auto though. I can easily get in the upper 20s in MPG in if I drive right. It is not a speed machine, but I have no problems getting it up to 80 or 90 on the interstate if I have to-not that I drive that fast. I can't power up long (steep) grades, but I expected that when I bought it. I would think a 2WD 2.7L should have plenty of power for the hwy. They have timing chains. Never messed with the valves. If you have had the 22R, I think you will like the 2.7L as much or probably better. I have. __________________ Nic 1997 Tacoma 4X4 Xtra Cab 2.7L 5 speed

12-30-2006, 07:32 PM	#10 (permalink)
TACOKRAWL Registered User Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Memphis. Tennessee Posts: 99	If you get a 2.7 litre, grt a 5spd. Trust me, you won't regret it. It is in my opinion one of the best plants Toyota ever made, and has great potential for build-up. The 2.7 mated to an automatic would be downright sluggish, esp. with larger than stock tires. The valves are shim and bucket, as are most late model toyota truck engines, much like the BMW Motorsport engines of the late 1980's and early 1990's. They require periodic adjustment, but I just pull the valvecover and check mine on every 3rd oil change. I have 67,000 miles on my rig and mine have always been within spec. I would prefer a 3RZ to a 5VZ anyday, but that is simply my personal opinion based on gas mileage and service needs i.e. timingbelt. __________________ I LIKE TO ROCK, BUT NOT TO ROLL!!! YOU HAVE TO LEARN TO "KRAWL" BEFORE YOU CAN "WALK"!!!!

01-01-2007, 01:39 AM	#11 (permalink)
tom_mag Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Posts: 79	I have a 2.7 auto 2wd 4runner and I think the power is fine, and judging from what my other car is, thats saying a lot. It is the torqueiest non-turbo 4cyl I have ever driven. It has enough midrange torque to accelerate from 60-70 without downshifting from overdrive. I always leave ECT power on. The engine is quiet and the shifting is smooth so the tranny doesn't have to jerk the car into 2nd just to speed up 5mph on the freeway. It can be sluggish at certain rpms or with a full load, but if you put the pedal down it will get the job done. Their is a 2 mile long 7% grade on the freeway near where I live. I can accelerate up to 80mph on that grade. I drive hard and fast and I get 20-24mpg. I would recommend that you test drive one. I test drove 4 and 6 cyl 4runners and I would say the acceleration is similar between the two at full throttle. The biggest difference in the 6 is that it has much better acceleration below 4000rpm. __________________ Tom 1971 Buick Riviera w/7.5L V8 The quintessential American car. 2000 4runner w/2.7 I4 The fuel efficient parts chaser. Last edited by tom_mag : 01-01-2007 at 01:48 AM.

12-29-2006, 08:04 PM	#2 (permalink)
mmayotaman Registered User Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Southern Maine Posts: 13	I have a 97' with the 2.7 i love it, i got great mpg until i put bigger tires on it, it still gets good mpg, has a good amount of power as well. Have had no probs so i have no complaints.

12-29-2006, 08:05 PM	#3 (permalink)
tacoma728 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 703	The engine with stock tires does great if mated to a five speed. I have a four wheel drive SR5, and I found that stock, the engine did great with get up and go speed and torque. Hauls plenty and is a good engine. Will climb hills with stock tires well.

12-29-2006, 08:09 PM	#4 (permalink)
yamagirl Registered User Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 14	We were looking at new ones but they said 4x4/2.7 combo is not made. But we looked at a used one, 05 xtra cab,4x4,2.7,auto. Is the dealeer blowing smoke up our .......backsides?

12-29-2006, 08:15 PM	#5 (permalink)
tacoma728 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 703	Speaking from my experience, the 2.7 liter is a great engine, but I regret not getting the V6, now I am stuck with no larger than 33" tires, and wondering if I will ever make it up that long hill on the highway. Regearing at this time is not an option, so go for the V6

12-29-2006, 08:18 PM	#6 (permalink)
tacoma728 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 703	The 2.7/4x4 combo is made, at least it was. I don't know about the new ones, but the fuel economy even with the 4x4 is quite acceptable.

12-29-2006, 09:10 PM	#8 (permalink)
Toyota Mike Registered User Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Woodbridge VA Posts: 8	I have a manual 2.7 and love it. I get very good gas mileage out of it.

01-01-2007, 06:40 AM	#12 (permalink)
blakjak Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Jacksonville, NC Posts: 151	I can go on Toyota's website right now and find regular and access cabs with 2.7 4x4. However, you just can't get a 2.7 with the auto. It only comes as an option with the V6. http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/2007/...ccess_cab.html I have an 03 access cab with the 2.7 4x4 and I think it's just fine. Granted I have the 5 speed and I don't think I'd go with an auto with the 4 cylinder myself but I don't know that it would make much of a difference performance-wise. The 2.7 will do just fine on whatever you throw at it, but you just have to remember that it's a 4 cylinder and not to expect V8 performance out of it. If you think your situation warrants a larger engine, (i.e. you may be towing something or hauling a load regularly) then go for the V6. Otherwise, I'd bet the 2.7 will be just fine for you. __________________ _______________________ 2003 Toyota Tacoma XtraCab 2.7L 4x4 5spd 4.30's Deckplate Mod Last edited by blakjak : 01-01-2007 at 06:44 AM.

01-01-2007, 09:46 AM	#13 (permalink)
Skrillah Registered User Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Bloomington,Indiana Posts: 792	I own a '97 4x4 auto 4runner. Best vehicle I have ever owned, it currently has 132000 miles on her and is running better than new. The 2.7 does have a chain, and is a non-interference engine. Because of this, maintenance on this engine is a breeze compared to the 3.4. I get about 18 mpg with a mix of highway and city. I also engage 4wd once a week or so,so that may bog me down as well. I am running about 32" tires (265x75rx16) and I do have a 1 inch lift also. I think they are screw type valve adjusters, I'm not 100% on this but I find it hard to believe they are the shim-bucket type. Unless you're looking for a vehicle to tow, you won't be dissapointed with the 2.7L. It is a simply one of the best engines toyota made,the only real problem that I've heard with these and was a problem for me too was the exhaust manifold was cracked and had to be replaced. Took me a bout 3 hrs, those bolts are a $#%@# to get off. Anyhow, again, I have found plenty of power out of the 4x4 auto for my needs. I do tow a 3000lb boat a short distance as well so it can be done. I think you get my point, you can't go wrong with the 2.7!

01-02-2007, 10:27 PM	#14 (permalink)
sauer Registered User Join Date: Jan 2007 Posts: 4	I have a 1997 4 runner with a 2.7L 5speed. It's like a tank. Seriously it's funny how much I like my 4 runner even though I need to whip it up hill. I wish it had more power, but you cant win them all I guess.

01-23-2007, 09:16 PM	#15 (permalink)
JLSpeed Registered User Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Baltimore, MD Posts: 26	I have a `97 Tacoma 2.7L 5spd with 144,xxx on it. I've had it for two years, and it's one of my favorite vehicles thus far. I just drove it on a 900mile+ round trip from baltimore to north carolina. It performed the task flawlessly and maintained 23-24mpg. This is, might I ad, through the mountains of western Virginia. I love this truck, my only complaint is lack of midrange power. Would I buy another 2.7L? Probably not. I'm opting for the 3.4 in my next Toyota; but do I regret the purchase of my truck? Absolutely not. Damn good vehicle. __________________ ~Jamie -`97 Tacoma 4x4 XtraCab 2.7L - 305/70/16 BFG ATs, Tundra Wheels, AEM Intake, JBA exhaust, Rancho RS500's, Front 2.5in Coil Spacers, Rear Shackles, lots of audio stuff, and some bumper stickers (every sticker adds 10hp)

01-24-2007, 12:49 PM	#16 (permalink)
Pozi Registered User Join Date: May 2005 Location: Poulsbo, WA Posts: 188	This is not meant to hi-jack the thread but is there a source for these engines? I am looking to swap the engine/trans combo into a early model Volvo. __________________ "You can talk horticulture but you can't make her enjoy the ballet." 94 4Runner 3.4L swap 1973 FJ40 327cui (for sale) pic

01-24-2007, 03:00 PM	#17 (permalink)
vrrodri Registered User Join Date: Jan 2007 Posts: 25	My 1999 Taco 2.7L 4X4 is auto, so they are available. I am not getting good mpg now but this is due to a slight misfire I am trying to diagnose and also the 33" tires on it. Other than that, it is a good truck. I am now getting around 15mpg mixed.

01-24-2007, 03:14 PM	#18 (permalink)
tacoma728 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 703	I like the 2.7 liter in my 2000 tacoma, but the gears are way too high stock and would do better with 4.10s. Tangent. __________________ Every 4x4 i own is sold, moved on to an economical car. SEE YA

01-24-2007, 03:37 PM	#19 (permalink)
Tacoclimber Contributing Member Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: Between a rock and a hard place, AZ Posts: 3,495	Get the 2.7. Seriously. It's the next best thing to a 22R as far as reliability goes. Owned a 99 Tacoma 4x4, 2.7 5spd for almost 3 years, and it never let me down once. I love the extra power of the 3.4 I have now, but the difference in mpg is noticeable. Good luck! __________________ CJ ...<>< 03 DC TRD Tacoma 4wd with a bunch of junk. Just wheel the stupid thing!!! But do it responsibly, ok?

01-24-2007, 10:27 PM	#20 (permalink)
bktaco Registered User Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Reno, NV Posts: 357	the 2.7L engine is a great choice for your hubby's commuter. i have been commuting in mine for seven years. substantially more and smoother power than the 22rs. with 115000 miles my truck runs like new, or better since i have a good header and other minor modifications (toyota limited the aspiration of this engine, it can certainly benefit from a little more air than factory setup allows). its already been said, but it might be wise to get the truck with manual transmission. if you're looking for 2wd, auto is probably fine too. also been said already, but the 2.7 is not well suited for regular hauling. for a commuter and occasional city hauling, that truck will do great and last forever. __________________ Yotas I've known... 83 pickup 87 Extracab SR5 4WD pickup 92 4WD pickup 85 long-bed pickup 90 pickup Yotas I own... 00 Extracab SR5 TRD Tacoma (3RZ) 85 SR5 4Runner Check the LongBeachRacers, pounding Tacos in the desert!

01-26-2007, 04:22 PM	#21 (permalink)
tragerbon Registered User Join Date: Mar 2006 Posts: 23	I had a 97 standard cab 2.7 5-speed, like everyone else said...plenty of power and good gas mileage. I now have 2000 ext cab 2.7 auto with 33s and a camper top, gas mileage is not as good as it was, I have more than enough power and torque (its not a cobra), however I do live in the south...no hills here, If I purchased another tacoma, it would have to be a 2.7. I have seen the new 2.7 4x4 5-speeds, no autos, I dont think they make the 4x4 2.7 auto anymore, 2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Black Sand Pearl 2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Desert Sand Mica 2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Graphite 2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Impulse Red Pearl 2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Indigo Ink Pearl 2006 Toyota Tacoma Base 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (2.7L 4cyl 5M) $17,925 Radiant Red I found a few !!

01-26-2007, 10:58 PM	#22 (permalink)
jdsdj98 Registered User Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 66	I'm another happy 2.7 owner. Got a '95 4WD, 5 spd Tacoma. At 231K now having had no major problems, I'm dead set on getting 300K out of it before I make it my second vehicle and pick up a little commuter car. I presently get 19-20 mpg mixed, 22-23 highway mpg. It has a chain instead of a belt, so it's a fairly low maintenance engine. Not sure about valve maintenance. As has been stated, it's not the most powerful, but I have no problems with it around town. Living in Colorado, the lack of power is very noticeable to me once I head "up the hill," so to speak. That being said, I'll sacrifice a little power for longevity (belt vs. chain) any day.