Just got this puppy! Did some reading here and on other sites. I know it's a 2wd, but is there any insight to this tranny, as far as pros/cons, as I'm going to be using it behind a freshened/mildly beefed up motor (thanks Engnbldr) and want to know if I should do any upgrades to it as well. Already planning on an external cooler and gauge for monitoring. Are these things reliable? Anything to do to improve durability/reliability? With 154k on the clock, is it near death or as bulletproof as the motor?

Thanks

stick or AT?

154K might be due a timing chain; just listen for rattle on startup; you can inspect the guides.

Compression numbers are 142-171psi +/- 4% if you want to do a baseline reference.

Do your fluid changes on everything and get it on YOUR maintenance schedule. They last forever if taken care of, even with offroading.

I need to be slapped... it's an automatic, and the 154K is the mileage on the vehicle.

It's not my first time posting on the 'net, but you'd think it was...

My bad. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" />

Ok, found out it's an A44D transmission. Any experiences?

At one point in time, mine was an auto as well.
Never had a problem with it.
Let it downshift on the hills and take it out of overdrive if hauling anything heavy.
I would get 25mpg hwy in the winter through the Appalachian Mountians. Probably higher in the summer, but I don't remember what it was.
Some slight differences between yours and what mine was, you have the EFI motor, mine is Carb. The 4runner vs. xtracab longbed, weights will be similar, but I think you have (had) a taller stance, so more air to push.
Just remember, these aren't race cars. Don't expect it to out run, well, much <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />
Enjoy it!

Good advice! I've decided to rebuild the tranny and add an aux cooler, as it can get upwards of 110deg here. Thanks for the info, all! Now I'm off to research any upgrades that can be done to it during rebuild...