Wut's up everyone! I'm just new to this website as I heard about it from watching Yota vids on youtube somebody mentioned about this website which has good & useful info about these trucks. Anyways I just recently purchased a used 99 4Runner with 230k's on it as it came with a hitch in the rear. I was wondering what is the max towing capacity that these trucks can tow? I heard some rumors that they can pull 5000 lbs but some say 3500. I don't know which one to believe that's why I am asking if you guys know the real capacity? My runner is equipped with the 3.4L V6 w/auto.

 

pulling isnt always the issue...its more stopping. Off hand i cant remember what the rating is on our 3rg gens. I want to say the it is 5000. I would say that 5000 would be max for pulling and stopping.

Welcome to YT!

 

I am fairly certain it is 5,000. Break out the owner's manual and you'll know for sure.

 

Well thanks guys! Wow I can't believe these trucks have that much towing capacity! I guess I won't have a problem pulling my friends 18' Tracker fishing boat this summer. I was wondering if the 3rd gens have a tranny cooler too?

 

the tranny cooler is in the bottom of your radiator. it may have an external cooler in front or behind your radiator. just follow the cooler hoses that come from your tranny. definately check before towing anything. excessive heat + auto tranny = nightmare

 

What if I don't have the tranny cooler would royal purple ATF work or some other kind of synthetic fluid to combat overheating?