Ketchup

Hi all.
I will admit, I didn't do my homework when I bought it so bad on me. Mechanically, it's fine. Passed smog and seems to cruse just fine. However, getting up to speed is just anemic and on the test drive I didn't have any hills to climb. Seems I can't get up a hill (paved) more than 40mph with it floored.

Is this normal? Anything I can do to make this better or should I cut my losses and get something else? My 17 year old loves it, but it seems freaking slow.

I really don't want to spend too much on it. I know nothing about it other than it has a v6 and stock tires & wheels.

Thanks for the kind help.

Oh it's an auto, too with 205K miles.

(I searched and looks like this *might* be normal - but I don't want to think this is how they were from the factory.)

rustyf99

iTrader: (1)

Check the basics, mine was the same way ... the front calipers freeze up, the tranny filters get clogged, make sure it's tuned properly (even if CEL is not on). Make sure there's no exhaust or intake restrictions.

If it's all good, I am afraid that's what you got. It will crawl through rocks and mud all day at 5 mph though...!

Ketchup

Thanks, Rusty for the reply.

I also found that a loose or stretched throttle cable could have a part in this.
Going to check tonight as well as the intake.

Since it passed smog (strict Southern California smog) wouldn't that generally mean decent engine & emissions health (from intake to tailpipe)?

Thanks.

rustyf99

iTrader: (1)

Oh, yes, forgot I fixed that already! There's a rubber grommet thingie that splits and you're basically halfway to the floor with the pedal before it gives it any throttle! Which is ok, but at full pedal you've only got the throttle half open!

A couple small hose clamps and you're back in business!

Passing smog doesn't mean it's breathing like it's supposed to, it's just burning it all right. If the intake is clogged, it senses less airflow and pumps less gas in, but you're not getting full giddy-up, got it?

Ketchup

Got it!
Many thanks. A few things to check tonight.

I'll post back up what happens.

Thanks again for the friendly answers to my 4Runner n00b questions.

Ketchup

Awe crap.
Removed the air filter and saw a little (very slight) improvement.
The throttle cable was fine.

I have a feeling it could be the transmission. Would a "service" improve this? (replace the filter & fluid).

Thanks