I was right about the 4 speed transmission. Hunting 3rd, 4th... It is not all the the transmissions fault though, it's the torque (286 ft/lb if I remember correctly). Leave it in 3rd gear so it doesn't hunt, and you have a decent 3 speed. 

 My bicycling pal has a 2004 SR5 4Runner, 5 speed, same 4.0 V6, and he tows a T@B trailer. Not the same as a POD in weight , BUT he cannot tow in 5th either at 65mph, and his T@B weighs UNDER 2000 pounds. So the 4Runner V6 just doesn't have tons of torque, that's all. No speed records to break when towing anyway.

 When I towed with the 4Runner through Mass and Vermont, it was 60-65 in 3rd all the way (240 miles each way). If I remember, about 3100 rpm at those speeds on the flats, 10-13 MPG. Transmission temps were good, but I installed a B&M cooler inline with the transmission radiator anyway.

There was a slight rear end sway, so I plan to get a WDH. The dealer has two options, one the Equalizer (~$600) and the other a newer Husky model (~$400). Other postings have shown the Equalizer to be a good choice, has anyone had experience with the Husky version? 

-fred

I also had a 2003 4Runner V6 Limited  4 speed AISIN automatic transmission. They all came standard with the tow receiver (rear cross member mounted).. There is an optional frame mounted receiver which allows slightly higher tow capacity (tow weight and tongue weight).

Stock 4Runner V6 has capacity 500/5000 (Tongue/Tow). It will tow an RPod "OK" .  It will NOT tow well at 65-70 mph unless it's flatland, and you will never be able to use the 4th gear. You must leave it in 3rd, or the transmission will hunt like crazy towing 3000 pounds or more.

 Hills at any highway speed are taking at a leisurely pace. Accept that towing several thousand pounds will be at 50-55 mph on the highway heading uphill. 

 I replaced my 10 year old 4Runner in 2013 with a diesel SUV because of my towing experiences, distance towing, and generally it was time for a more efficient vehicle anyway. The 4Runner was still in great condition, and was practically  oil changes and scheduled maintenance only. Very few mechanical issues in 10 years. Sold it to a friend, who doesn't tow, he still uses it as his daily driver.

Thanks!

For fish stories, of course.

To all who responded to my query my hearfelt thanks. I believe I will stick with my present TV until something better comes along based on your responses. Tongue jn cheek I was ready to research the availability of a lifted Toyota 4 runner in my area until I scrolled down to the bottom of the message.

Thanks again

Larry158

True about the 8 speed transmissions. First two ratios are VERY low. I get 15mpg towing the Pod at 65mph with cruise set. If I can tolerate driving at 55mph, then it climbs to 17mpg towing. I have the TDI (diesel) version of the Touareg.

One advantage of the newer 6-speed, and definitely with the 8-speed trannys, is less of a need for the low rear gear ratios, so I think you have the right idea.  You really only need it low off the line, and 1st and 2nd on the 8-speeds are very low.

Just kidding. I'm averaging about the same 10 to 15 range depending on terrain and speed. :)