New on the forum. I have a 99 4Runner SR5 all original with the six-cylinder engine and automatic transmission. I've got about 200k miles on it. I bought it many years ago with 40k miles on it. I've maintained it pretty well with regular oil changes, timing belt replacements, etc. I had a good deal of suspension work ($2k for replacement of all worn parts) done about a year ago. I am not a mechanic. I don't do any serious off road. I'm mostly interested in durable, reliable, safe, low-cost transportation. I like this 4Runner a lot for my needs.

I'm wondering if it makes sense, for long-term reliability and economy, to consider swapping to a 4-cyl 22RE engine. I have read many good things about this motor (including no timing belt to change). Top speed and acceleration don't matter to me. Just rock solid reliability. I would also consider a new/rebuilt/remanufactured transmission that would be the most reliable/durable (manual or auto trans) for the 22RE.

I don't know if this engine or trans change would be an overly expensive or worthwhile decision in the long run. I have the sense that for both the current engine and transmission I will need to face significant repair bills before too long.

If you have any suggestions on how I could have a 22RE engine swap and possibly a transmissions change for this 4Runner let me know. I live in Maryland. If you know anyone who is a good option for this type of work I'd be interested in that as well.

Thank you.

 

Not a good idea since the 22re is renowned for blowing head gaskets and underpowered IMO. The 5vz-FE is one of or maybe the most reliable V6 ever built averaging 500,000km on internal components within spec. I have one with 475,000km, runs like a champ had 1 timing belt and water pump done, Radiator, Alternator and starter and valve cover gaskets, lower ball joints, suspension, brakes, tires thats it. If you really want to spend money send it in for a diesel conversion, but all you will gain is MPG's. And if you have a problem with the transmission low k replacements are $1000. Change your rad to avoid the Strawberry milkshake and it will be one of the most low maintenance vehicles you ever own, you might also want to check to see if you fall under the gas gauge TSB

 

That's exactly the type of knowledgeable input I wanted to learn about. So maybe I stick with this V-6 motor, keep maintaining it well, and look to replace the radiator and transmission. Any suggestions on what to look for on the transmission or where to look to get this work done?

Thanks again.

 

He didn't say to replace the transmission. Only if it broke.
Maybe, replace the rad if it's original.

No need to replace parts unless they break or wear out. Especially big parts.

 

Yes the tranny is very similar to the Jeeps and some GM's it is very reliable aswell. Power flushing of the tranny is not advised, passive flush using the tranny's pump is better, and the "filter" in it is actually steel mesh and requires a cleaning at about half life as well as the pan and magnets at 200,000km. Most just drain 3.5L out of the tranny via drain plug and measure the amount removed and refill with reg Dexron III. I usually try to swap out 3.5L of ATF every time I do the oil change until it comes out bright red and smells new, this will depend on use and abuse and previous maintenance, but usually 3 drain and fills will clean out the majority of the old oil. I think the tranny holds 12L of ATF. Google 3rd Gen 4runner Strawberry Milkshake and then order a new Rad ASAP.

 

Thanks for the input on the radiator issue where the transmission fluid gets mixed with radiator fluid due to an internal radiator problem. I did some reading on the topic as you suggest. In addition to the maintenance as suggested, is it better to replace the radiator, or use a separate transmission cooler or both?

 

If you live in a cold climate it is better to have the original set up as it helps warm the ATF for better shifting, (EDIT: if your hauling or have bigger tires both would be a good idea IMO. Also your rear diff likes to have its oil changed regularly, every 20,000-40,000KM IMO, and I highly advise you put in a extended diff breather that reaches to your gas cap, it will save your rear seals from prematurely failing. The front diff and centre diff/transfer case oils are good for 60-100,000KM depending on use and abuse IMO, the new synthetics make a big difference in milage.

EDIT#2, the 4Runner also never got the frame recall that effected the Taco's, but they are still susceptible to corrosion at the 4 lowest corners of the frame, and your rockers and rear diff housing are also susceptible to corrosion if you live in the rust belt, so anything you can do to minimize that will help.

 

Malcolm 99 -- Thanks again. The maintenance info you suggest is super helpful. I will see if I can take care of those Items. Like I said in the original post, I really like this 99 4Runner and want to keep it running for a long time. About the frame corrosion ... are there any low cost things I can do to help this? I'm in the mid-Atlantic area so there is some rust. Thanks.

 

I became friends with a guy at Crown Rust control and take it in annually and remind them which places are of concern on this vehicle. I also remove the entire rear hatch inner plastic access panel and steel covers before I take it in. The rear hatch and bumper also corrode easily. Its not a matter of IF it will rust, it is a matter of WHEN it will rust.