Build parts are, understandably, most abundant for the
first-generation 4Runners. This is especially true for the straight axle
versions as they are prized for hard-core articulation on tough trails. However,
solid axle swaps on the torsion bar IFS has been cookie-cutter duplicated for
nearly 20 years now, so swaps are relatively straight-forward.
Second Generation (1990 to 1995)
Starting in 1990, Toyota returned to the rounded fenderwells
on the 4Runner, similar to the earlier Toyota trucks. Most of these 103.3-inch
wheelbase models with full steel body were four-door versions through the 1995
model year, and designed to carry up to five passengers.
The rear leaf springs were dropped in favor of a four-link
coil spring linked suspension in 1990. To date, all following 4Runners have
used a four-link with Panhard bar. Despite the relatively short links used, the
system works well and can be further enhanced with short lift springs to raise
the tail a few inches.
Starting in 1990,
Toyota returned to the rounded fenderwells on the 4Runner, similar to the
earlier Toyota trucks.
The 22RE and 3VZ-E engines would serve duty for the
second-generation 4Runners through 1995. In general, all of the engines used in
the 4Runner have been extremely reliable, and long-lasting. The one exception
has been some of the 3.0L V-6 3VZ-E engines. Some of these suffered from
factory defective head gaskets, and many were recalled to dealers for
replacement after the defect was discovered. Some factory sealed engines lasted
for hundreds of thousands of miles without an issue. Meanwhile, others
developed low-mileage leaks, and sometimes the issue reoccurred after a hasty
dealer repair. These days, it’s often easy to find clean second-generation
4Runners cheap with a blown 3VZ-E engine.
Axle gearing in second-generation 4Runners varied across the
years with ratios of 4.10:1, 4.30:1, 4.56:1, and 4.88:1. Toyota introduced
rear-wheel antilock brakes in 1990 models and in 1994, fourwheel antilock
brakes were offered as an option on all V-6 models.
The 22RE and 3VZ-E
engines would serve duty for the second-generation 4Runners through 1995.
The 4WDemand system was optional starting in 1990, and
allowed shift-on-thefly 4WD. The 4WDemand system used fixed hubs at the wheel
hub such that the front axle shafts and CV joints were constantly turning. A
vacuum actuated system engaged the front axle drive when the transfer case was
shifted to 4WD. The second-generation 4Runners have the early IFS system with
limited travel capability in stock form. Many of these models on the trail have
eventually been swapped to a solid axle up front. These are great builders on a
usable wheelbase and maintain the “mini-truck” size that started to disappear
with newer models. Beware of the 3.0L V-6 pitfalls, or use this Achilles’ heel
to score a clean rolling rig to work on.
The 4WDemand
system was optional starting in 1990, and allowed shift-on-thefly 4WD.
