If you use an auto tranny you will find that your whole drivetrain lasts longer with a V-8. Reports from people who have swapped in six cylinder Supra turbo motors with the R series five speed and 35" tires seem to indicate that the toyota diffs are near or at their capacity with that set-up. It will depend a lot on what size tire you end up running. Your drivetrain could probably live happily with a V-8, backed by an auto tranny, if you stick with 225-75-15 tires <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/barf.gif" alt="" /> -- Matt

'89 4runner SR5, 3.0, auto (fun)
'93 xtra cab, dlx,3.0, 5spd (work truck)