THE END OF AN ERA ... sad day, but I'll stick around

[PoPo]

So, in light of recent economic events, I decided to take the pro-active, conservative financial approach to address the looming paycuts, pension cuts, and medical expense increases that our lovely Michigan Governor (douche), Republican-legislature (douche-bags), and local government (couldn't run a 40 yrd dash, let alone a city) are planning to impose ... and I noticed that my vehicle budget is one of the places I could do some trimming. So... I found a way to save about $300/mo from my payment (still owed $20k / 3yrs on my Tundra) while saving some money on gas, and while still giving me some moderate capabilities for towing, family-hauling, and inclement weather needs.

Traded my truck (after returning it to stock) for $25k... and picked up an '03 4-Runner Limited V8 (4.7L) from a guy I know at a local "imports" auto group. Got a really good deal on it, very clean history, detailed service records, 80k miles, 2yr warranty, etc etc etc. Just picked it up today and only put about 50 miles on it so far, but I'm very impressed. Very smooth ride, adequate power from the 4.7L, nice interior, tow-package handles around 5,000+ lbs. Another plus is that I'm so far averaging 19 MPG, which includes about 15 minutes of warm-up/idle time when I was leaving work tonight. So, that'll probably save me another $50-75 /mo in my fuel costs.

Was not an easy choice (loved my Tundra), but one that I felt had to be made. When things turn around and they quit Fu*!@ing with public employees, I'll most likely join the Tundra crowd again. By then, the Gen-3 trucks may be out

I'll be listing my stuff for sale shortly, which will include some Husky floor mats, mud-flaps (rear), TRD Intake, Custom CM sub-box (with or w/out subs), soft-Tonneau, and my LEER Cap.... oh, and some of the misc center console parts from when I did the center-seat swap. If anyone is interested, just PM me. I plan to stick around to see what new developments are happening over here. Here's a picture of the new rig (below).

And if anyone has any personal experience that they'd like to share regarding 4-Runner ownership, please feel free to fill me in

[Lunyou]

I cannot speak directly about the 4runner but the engine is top notch. My dad's 2003 has 285k on the clock an it still runs like new.

Good luck with the changes coming your way.


Sent from my Autoguide iPhone app

[Hct]

good luck

[WT]

Sorry to hear of the choice but a real mans got to do what they need to do so many people wait to long and there upside down before they realize the situation and whats coming.
On the bright side your still in a Toyota. I owned 2 -3rd gen 4Runners and both did me well one was lifted and I was able to afford to slap in a super charger after a few years in it and they both did me good no major issues other than normal wear and tear items.

[Bradscc]

Hey PoPo...sorry to hear, but times are tough, so do what you gotta do...good luck to you now and in the future! ...and don't be a stranger!!

Brad

[Vettelover84]

Sorry to see your Tundra go. We have thought about replacing the CM with something my economical, but the thought of taking the depreciation hit is to much.. A Sienna is probably in my future but I am holding out. The 4Runner looks great! I have always been a fan but never owned one.

[PoPo]

Thanks fellas... better safe than sorry, especially when ya have a family counting on u.

Yeah, we've had such good luck with Toyota & Honda that those were our only choices for buying used. Also considered a Ridgeline, Pilot, Odyssey, Sienna... but the 4 runner seemed to be the best fit and most capable.



-Sent from my PHOTON with AutoGuide for Android

[Grizzly05]

Sorry the situation has you without a tundra. Kudo's for being proactive!

The 4Runner is not a bad compromise. That's my second choice as well. Our 07 has been flawless. Bought it new in 07, and now have 60K on it. Only thing I've done is tires and oil changes. The 4.7 is the smoothest engine I've driven from toyota.

[mendonsy]

Too bad the Tundra had to go but it was probably a wise move!!
The older 4runner is a good choice for a nice reliable vehicle. My #2 son has had a couple of them and if he can't kill them nobody can!

[PoPo]

No doubt man... you're right about the engine; it's silky smooth. And I must say, the build quality of this thing is exceptional... arguably the best vehicle I have owned in terms of fit & finish, especially considering its age. Still looks & feels new, no squeaks or rattles.

-Sent from my PHOTON with AutoGuide for Android

[SE2000]

You got to do what you got to do. And a new house is always a big money pit. I go several times a week to get stuff for mine.
did you pull those MST's before selling it? Those are some sweet wheels.

[PoPo]

No, I had traded the stock ones way back when i first got it, so I just left them on... Would've cost the same to swap in stock ones anyhow

-Sent from my PHOTON with AutoGuide for Android

[htownrida713]

sorry for the situation man, my brother 96 4runner is still going strong, last time i drove it, he had about 194,xxx miles.

[DCLB4X4]

Sorry to hear the looming pay cuts. I know exactly what you mean as my wife works for the city fire dept. They've had cuts, too. Your new-used Toyota will treat you well. Thanks for all the Tundra posts.

[wildbill129]

Popo, that sucks. We are in the same boat here in California. Public safety is the new cash cow......I could go on, but I am better off not.........eventually it will turn around, hopefully we will see you back in a Tundra! Take care brother.....