12/24/2023 0 Comments Toyota four runnerInstead of an enhanced pickup truck, the new 4Runners featured a freshly designed body mounted on an existing frame. The 1990 model year 4Runner represented a fundamental departure from the first-generation model. Second generation (1990–1995) Second generation Small cosmetic and option changes were made in 1989, but the model was left largely untouched in anticipation of the replacement model then undergoing final development. Trucks sold with the V6 engine were equipped with the same heavy duty rear differential that was used in the turbocharged trucks, as well as a completely new transmission and transfer case the transfer case was chain driven, and created less cab noise than the old gear-driven unit used behind the four cylinder engine. This engine was significantly larger and more powerful than the original 4-cylinder offering. In 1988, the 22R-E engine was joined by an optional 3.0 L V6 engine, the 3VZ-E. Turbocharged and naturally aspirated diesel engines were also available in the pickups at this time as well, but it appears that no diesel-powered 4Runners were imported to the United States. Low-option models had a small light in the gauge cluster to indicate turbo boost, while more plush vehicles were equipped with an all-digital gauge cluster that included a boost gauge. Most Turbo 4Runners were equipped with the SR5 package, and all turbo trucks had as standard a heavier rear differential. It appears that all turbocharged 4Runner models sold in the US were equipped with an automatic transmission, though a five-speed manual could still be ordered in the turbocharged pickups. Most had aftermarket seats and seat belts added by North American dealers after they were imported.Ī turbocharged version of the 22R-E engine (the 22R-TE) was also introduced in 1986, although this engine is significantly rarer than the base 22R-E. With only two seats the vehicle could be classified as a truck (rather than a sport vehicle) and could skirt the higher customs duties placed upon sport and pleasure vehicles. During 1984-1986 many 4Runners were imported to the US without rear seats. Tops were color-matched on blue, red and some gold 4Runners, while other body colors were still sold with white or black tops. The 4Runner grille changed from the three segment type to the two segment grille on all 4Runners in 1986. The pickups in those markets retained the more rugged and capable, if less refined, solid axle configuration. Outside the US, the Hilux Surf (similar to the 4Runner) also gained the new independent suspension design, marketed as Hi-Trac. However, this change arguably decreased the truck's off-road capabilities. These changes made the trucks more comfortable on-road, and improved stability and handling. Track width was also increased by three inches. In 1986, all American-market Toyota pickup trucks (and the 4Runner) underwent a major design change as the suspension was changed from a solid front axle to an independent front suspension. Additionally, rear seats were available in all 1985 4Runner trim levels, not just the more upscale SR5. All 1984 models were equipped with the carbureted 2.4 L 22R engine and were all available with a four wheel drive system that drove the front wheels through a solid front axle (although this would be changed in 1986, much to the chagrin of many off-road enthusiasts).ġ985 saw the arrival of the electronically fuel-injected 2.4 L 22R-E I4 engine (though the carbureted engine remained available until 1988). An SR5 trim package was offered that upgraded the interior: additional gauges, better fabrics, and a rear seat were standard with the package. For this first year, all models were equipped with black or white fiberglass tops. The first 4Runners were introduced in 1984 as 1984 1/2 models. Nearly all changes were to the latter half of the body in fact, because the rear springs were not upgraded to cope with the additional weight of the rear seats and fiberglass top, these early models tend to suffer from sagging rear suspensions. All first generation 4Runners had two doors and were indistinguishable from the pickups from the dashboard forward. Thus, the first generation 4Runner is nearly mechanically identical to the Toyota pickup. Instead of developing an entirely new vehicle, Toyota took their existing short-bed pickup frame, made some simple modifications, and added an open one-piece body with a removable fiberglass top (much like the full-size Ford Bronco and Chevrolet K5 Blazer). Many other automakers were introducing mid-size SUVs in the mid 1980s (e.g., Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer) and the pressure mounted on Toyota to develop a competing model. The Toyota pickup (upon which the 4Runner was originally based) underwent a major redesign in 1983 for the 1984 model year.
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