Member - Nick (TAS) replied:

We've done plenty of touring in our old 94 4 Runner 2.8, they are a top vehicle but very underpowered.If you are towing id up grade your suspension.If you dont want to go the turbo mod for more power, Id fit a foam airfilter, extractors,snorkel and a 2 1/2 exhaust.Then give the girl a good service ie all oils,belts,hoses etc.
Then enjoy.

AMack replied:

I have a 2.8 Hilux ute and would dearly love more power BUT I have left mine stock and persevered and reaped the benefits of outstanding reliability and extremely cheap running costs.
1stly ensure you are getting less than 11l/100 otherwise check injectors etc. Invest in a quality fuel filter and change regularly, as well as air filter. Check condition of air pipe between air filter and engine for deterioration and filter chamber as filters can leak dust. If you are staying stock then ensure you run 205/16 or equivalent tyres, 31" or bigger tyres knock off what little grunt these engines have. Tow in 4th unless a tail wind, your gearbox will go forever. If you haven't changed all gear and diff oils do it and you'll probably never have to do it again, unless you've been through water.
Very very tough engine and if the 4runner body is anything like the hilux again very tough and rust resistant.

Stiphodon replied:

I used to have an old 2.4D 4runner, one thing that you will find ubiquitous in these older toyotas is that the rear leaf springs will have sagged with age. You will find that once you load up with gear, plus have the camper hitched on the back, you will be sitting fairly ar.se heavy and your rear clearance will be greatly reduced. For a fairly small cost ($300-400) you can get your rear springs re-tensioned and even get an extra leaf fitted if you feel it necessary. This way your wont be grinding your towball on every creek crossing, and you will have much more travel to abosrb the bumps and knocks