HB, neither of the motors will 'burn out
early'. In fact the 4-cyl motor in particular is known for it's
longevity, even at
high RPMs, and even pulling these heavy
coaches. Yes, these vehicles will be slow on grades, hills
and certainly on mountains, according to posts from people who live in
these places. So you definitely can't be in any hurry in the
hills.
But either engine will get you
there. Obviously, the 6-cyl will have better pulling power than the 4, and
will allow you to climb steep grades at
10-15 mph faster speed. And the 6 will feel a bit peppier at stoplights,
both engines are capable of highway speeds on the flats. Best mileage
tho is apparently at 50-55 mph, so if you drive 70+ you're mileage will drop
considerably. Not unusual to hear of 11-13 mpg on the highway
driving in a headwind. But even that's well above the
normal mileage for one of the big
rigs.
The 6-cyl is said to be a little quieter,
the 4-cyl might be 1 to 2 mpg more fuel efficient, but owner's experiences
vary.
In your search, be sure to check for
the dangerous 5-lug rear axle on older units prior to 1987.
These 5-lug axles will have to be upgraded to a 6-bolt 1-ton axle at your cost. Some
campers will have a 5-lug front axle with 6-lug rear, these are OK.
Obviously tho, these dual-lug campers do have a spare tire issue.
Russ
central Fla
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Thursday, March 30, 2006 11:08
AM
Subject: [toyota-campers] 4 cyl or 6
cyl
Hi,
This is my first post to this group. I am
thinking of
buying a Toyota RV and I have a very BASIC question.
I a 4
Cyl Toyota really enough to push around such a
huge RV? Do the 4 cyl
engines burn out early? Is a 6
cyl really a better way to go? I
have had Toyotas all
my life and I know a 4 cyl Camry is a bit
under
powered at times. I can't imagine that engine in an
RV...I
know..it's not the same engine but still a 4
cyl. I had a VW camper
bus in my youth. Great
concept! Terrible engine/drive
train.....I don't want
the same experience. Please advise or point me
toward
previous articles written about this
subject.
Thanks
Hb
