Hey All,
Sadly the salty New England winters are starting to take their toll on my 97 SR5 4Runner (188K miles). I've been looking at options for replacement and just can't find anything I like as much as a 3rd gen 4Runner.

I am strongly considering trying to find a newer, low mileage 3rd Gen in a salt free state (TX, FL, etc.). I want a factory e-locker so that limits me to 2000 or earlier.

After a fair amount of research I'm thinking a 2000 LTD is probably the best option. Might consider a SR5 too--although upgraded 4WD system in the LTD seems appealing. Am thinking it is best to find somebody's grocery getter and start the mods from ground zero so I can be sure of quality.

Anyone see any flaws with my strategy or think I will dislike the 2000 LTD after 10 years of driving the '97?

Thanks
Errol

 

bump, in case anyone has an opinion. I know the topic is not all that exciting, but assume somebody has driven both 4WD systems and has a preference.

tHanks

 

Personally, I love the AWD (multi-mode 4WD) system found on the 99-00 Limited and 01-02 4Runners. I had a 98 and there would be times when the road was only partly covered with snow, and I was always nervous to run 4WD on the dry pavement sections. Now with my 02, that's not a problem.

I picked an 02, because I didn't like the 4th Gen styling (I'm getting used to them more and more, though), and since my GF would be driving it sometimes, I wanted traction control. VSC and TRAC are great systems (except when trying to take off or get through mud and snow. But the Andy Mod took care of that). Lock the CDL, disable VSC, and with the ATRAC going, my 4Runner will climb some slippery/hairy stuff.

Plus, I wanted a Sport Edition and all of those other features, which limited me to 01-02. I have not regretted my decision. I love this rig. If you REALLY want a rear locker, get a 99-00 Limited. If your sig. other will be driving part of the time, I'd suggest getting the 01-02.

 

Can you get a 99 limited w/ AWD, locker and 5 speed?

 

Thank your both for the input.

Only reason I'm looking to the 2000 over the 99 is to try and get as new a model with lowest miles possible.

Since I'm going to do a lift, slightly higher original ride height of the 99 doesn't really matter to me.

Only reason I am thinking of an auto vs. 5spd is to due to my use of the car as a daily driver. My commute has gotten worse over the years and a stick is getting old.

 

Sorry that was kind of a thread jack. I was just curious if you could get one with the AWD mode and a 5speed. It was me thinking outloud.

 

heres a nice 00 ltd w/ locker in florida
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.js...ce=&cardist=20
i like my 00 even though its only 2 wheel drive

 

Thanks for the tip. I'll check it out.

 

FYI - 5 speeds weren't available in any of the Limited models and the multi mode auto tranny is Limited exclusively;that's one thing I'd really like in my Highlander since the AWD mode is enough for the snow and really even pretty deep snow.

My mom has a '99 Limited and I think she's used 4hi 3-4 times over 5 years and that was just for our ocassional blizzards otherwise she just pushes the button on the shifter and goes. I have to remind her to engage the rear locker a couple times a year since off roading isn't in her Runner's future.

 

Can you get a 5 speed highlander ed. w/ that AWD or would I have to have an auto go get that?