I sold my 1988 3.0 V-6 4runner and am now looking at a 1994 model. It is the same 3.0 V-6 but this one is an automatic where my 88 was a 5 speed. There is a considerable power difference in the two. I had 32x11's on my 88 and it would still run circles around this 94 with 31x10's. Both with stock gears, but do not know if the ratios are the same. I have checked it out pretty good, and it runs smooth at idle and higher, no smoke at startup and while driving, no total loss of power, just real sluggish. It will pull a hill during normal driving, but downshifts pretty quick to do so. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what else to check out, or what this might be. I know the owner and he has had it for 3 years. He is real particular with maint., but this may be something worse. Thanks in advance for any suggestions!!

 

If you think something is up with the motor, run compression or leak down tests.

The auto will drag a bit more over the 5sp, plus you are losing a gear...
The 3.0L is generally a dog, with no good aftermarket fixes.. .but to each his own.

 

Welcome to the 3.0 auto club!

 

What dcg9381 said. I owned a 91 3.0 5sp stock and it was quick. If that thing has any leaks you need to find them. Have you done a general mantaince on it? (Belts, plugs,cap, etc.) Autos are like thst sometimes. Asheville eh? Last place I lived was on Main St. in Oakley. Sure miss APBC. Anyway I know a guy in Black Mnt. thats the bomb if you need a mechanic.

 

All the auto is good for is making heat. This last trip to big bear I was caravaning with voodoo who had a 3.0 5 speed and there is no way I was going to be able to keep up with him going up the grade. The two with the 5 spd. were way ahead of us guys with the autos. The overdrive is so high, that even with my 4.88's and 31's it doesn't take much to kick it out of overdrive.

 

also your original runner was considerably lighter than your newer runner. That will also make a difference.

 

Your '94 is heavier. Things like roof racks create lots of drag too. These trucks will never be quick. But for me, I figured W.T.H. and tried to optimize everything. Fog the throttle body and intake with carb cleaner and scrub with a toothbrush where you can reach (it gets FILTHY in there); platinum plugs; hi flow intake/exhaust; synthetic lube everywhere. Hey, I drained my Amsoil ATF outta the auto two months ago and after two years and 30, 000 km, it was clear bright red -- it looked like it came outta the bottle. And I drive it hard.

Also, check for forehead-slapping stuff like a sticking parking brake or rusty brake shoes/siezed front calipers. I almost once got an alignment but not before the blue left brake rotor and bad smell tipped me off.