To VVTi Or Not To VVTi that is the ?

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2001LC

2001LC

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I'm really struggling with getting a 100 LC or LX equipped with the VVTi engine or not?

Really what is the benefit of a VVTi engine or is there any?

I'm looking for newer model, as I'd like some of the newer 100's system updates:
  1. Extra HP.
  2. 5sp transmission.
  3. lights.
  4. Updated propeller shafts.
  5. Updated Calipers.
  6. Updated steering.
  7. Updated TPS APPS.
My concern with the VVTI 2006/07 LC or LX is:
  1. Time Belt failure is an engine killer. Timing belt failure, 07 LC . 4.7 engine is an interference motor
  2. Air Induction Pump Failure & Bypass, potentially very expense. 06/07 Air Induction Pump Failure & Bypass
  3. ACH failure.
  4. Placement of charcoal canister, 2003+. Fuel Filler Blockage
Area of concern on 2003-05 LC or LX:
  1. Transmission low speed shutter, very expensive. 2004 Transmission Issue - Washboard Vibration, Shudder
  2. ACH failure.
  3. Placement of charcoal canister, 2003+.
  4. Steering Rack issues.
What say yea all:
Are my concern founded?
What am I missed or listed in error?
What is the benefit of a VVTi engine or is there any?


I've found beyond the evident differences in the VVTi. The cam lift is higher and pistons and connecting rods have different parts numbers starting in 06 - 07. 89-05 vs 06-07 FSM, standard Camshaft Lobe Height?
 
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This question is discussed quite frequently on these forums.

In my experience people are generally in two camps - those who want a 5 speed, and those who do not care. However, all seem to agree that new buyers should be concerned about maintenance and overall condition first, then newer the better until it reaches your budget maximum.

My LX has VVTi. I personally don't think the increased HP is in a power band where it matters.

There's evidence supporting that timing belt failure isn't an engine killer in both the VVTi and non VVTi motors.

The weight thing doesn't make sense to me, nor have I read anything about it.
 
I would imagine if you do the TB service when required that should never be an issue. Am i missing something here? In all the cars i have owned this has been the least of my worries.
 
Ran my V8 4R for 9 years, VVTI (06) and NEVER had a problem with it. No CELs, nothing, in 9years and 120K. Compared to my non-VVTI LC it was a rocket. Sure, there is a weight difference between the trucks but the 4R was substantially peppier than my LC. Just an opinion from a long term VVTI owner, I wouldn't hesitate for one second on purchasing another.
 
The only trade space to be concerned about it cost of the vehicle and the value it provides to you.

It's not really about the factors you listed. Reality is, the VVTi equipped vehicle will be newer. And fundamental to that, better in all regards. It's a Toyota after all so reliability will be exceptional all around, commensurate with mileage and age, VVTi or not.

Funny how quickly a rumor of the VVTi motor consuming more gas starts. This is BUNK. VVTi is a technology to optimize volumentric efficiency of a motor across the power band, and broaden the torque curve. The does not make it less efficient in any way than the non VVTi motor. Fundamentally, it's capable of making more power everywhere. I'll agree that more power, as demanded by the right foot, equals potentially more gas consumption where it is capable of making more power than the old motor. But what's just as true, is that the VVTi motor will make more power efficiently, because it won't need to work so hard to run at higher load points (rich) and high rpm's to eek out what it can.

I've driven both non-vvti and vvti cruisers. The VVTi cruiser make considerably more power in actual use than what paper might suggest. This is even moreso a consideration when you start talking about armoring, big tires, and towing.
 
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RyanStl said:
Didn't the 5 speed come out in '03 and the VVTi '06. That is three years you could have what you want.
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That's my understanding. Because I e been looking for an 03 and up for the 5spd. I personally don't care about the engine type. I do want the lights from on 06 though but that's easily swapped.


Sent from my iPhone
 
Mixelplix said:
***
There's evidence supporting that timing belt failure isn't an engine killer in both the VVTi and non VVTi motors.

The weight thing doesn't make sense to me, nor have I read anything about it.
Click to expand...
I've update OP with some links where TB failure of VVTi is a killer. I've never seen here in mud a non VVTi damage engine heads or pistons.

See link on "MPG drops when hauling weight" in OP. His post #45 he's sure, but it is weak data and I've asked if he still see this. He's not answered.

bucfl said:
I would imagine if you do the TB service when required that should never be an issue. Am i missing something here? In all the cars i have owned this has been the least of my worries.
Click to expand...
I agree if properly maintained it reduce risk, but s*&t happens. See link in OP "failure 07 LC"

m3fan said:
Ran my V8 4R for 9 years, VVTI (06) and NEVER had a problem with it. No CELs, nothing, in 9years and 120K. Compared to my non-VVTI LC it was a rocket. Sure, there is a weight difference between the trucks but the 4R was substantially peppier than my LC. Just an opinion from a long term VVTI owner, I wouldn't hesitate for one second on purchasing another.
Click to expand...
Thanks for the opinion, good to hear.

TeCKis300 said:
**
Funny how quickly a rumor of the VVTi motor consuming more gas starts. This is BUNK. VVTi is a technology to optimize volumentric efficiency of a motor across the power band, and broaden the torque curve. The does not make it less efficient in any way than the non VVTi motor. Fundamentally, it's capable of making more power everywhere. I'll agree that more power, as demanded by the right foot, equals potentially more gas consumption where it is capable of making more power than the old motor. But what's just as true, is that the VVTi motor will make more power efficiently, because it won't need to work so hard to run at higher load points (rich) and high rpm's to eek out what it can.

I've driven both non-vvti and vvti cruisers. The VVTi cruiser make considerably more power in actual use than what paper might suggest. This is even moreso a consideration when you start talking about armoring, big tires, and towing.
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All good points, and the MPG issue I've posted a link to is weak data.
But the VVTi (06-07) have two potentially very expensive issues. See OP added links on "TB & Air Pump". The "04-05 has potential Transmission issues" that is very expensive.

redman333 said:
That's my understanding. Because I e been looking for an 03 and up for the 5spd. I personally don't care about the engine type. I do want the lights from on 06 though but that's easily swapped.
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What is that light difference, have any pictures? Sorry I don't recall.
 
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Totally benefits to the VVT engine. It varies the timing man, that makes it run better and more smooth. The 5spd is better too. Along with lot's of other goodies. Buy the newest and best you can afford. Things like the 98/99 rear e-locked axle can be swapped in if you want, just use an after market e-locker wiring kit since the 06/07 won't have the needed wires in the harness.

I bought a 2000 recently. This was due to my budget, if I had the cash for the newer 100 that is exactly what I would have bought.

Cheers
 
I removed low MPG issue of VVTi engine from OP. The one post in mud that claimed "low MPG under load" did not use hard data, nor reaffirm claim.

I also added a link on charcoal canister placement change in 2003. Change may have been causing vapor-lock when topped off or full gas tank expansion saturates charcoal canister.
Anyone have any info/updates on this issue?

I've never heard this before: gas pump nozzle actually suck fuel out of tank: Running on fumes.... I've got to test this out.
 
SWUtah said:
Eliminate complexity. 2005, no VVTi, convert AHC to OME 2" lift, 5sd transmission.
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I'm leaning that way.

What issues or repairs have you had on your 2005?
 
I see we have one more 06 - 07 VVTi engine report an air induction pump failure code. He was quote $2,700 at Dealer, opted to use the $200 DIY workaround. I suppose $200 not bad, I just prefer OEM design in most cases. I also see a report of issue with workaround, but not in our 2UZ-FE VVTi.
 
2001LC said:
I see we have one more 06 - 07 VVTi engine report an air induction pump failure code. He was quote $2,700 at Dealer, opted to use the $200 DIY workaround. I suppose $200 not bad, I just prefer OEM design in most cases. I also see a report of issue with workaround, but not in our 2UZ-FE VVTi.
Click to expand...
S there a link to this work around somewhere.


Sent from my iPhone
 
Something I've noticed with the non-VVTI's is that they really do lack upper-end power. On the 5 speed when pulling away from a light, once you hit third the truck forgets how to accelerate. Not a problem if you're a passive driver but just something to keep in mind. Then again, my experience is different having driven a 200 series around with that 5.7...
 
redman333 said:
S there a link to this work around somewhere.


Sent from my iPhone
Click to expand...
Start with link in OP, see where it leads you.

Sligex said:
Something I've noticed with the non-VVTI's is that they really do lack upper-end power. On the 5 speed when pulling away from a light, once you hit third the truck forgets how to accelerate. Not a problem if you're a passive driver but just something to keep in mind. Then again, my experience is different having driven a 200 series around with that 5.7...
Click to expand...
VVTi in 100's are supposed to give better power in the higher band isn't it?

In my 2001 I’ve had all the power I’ve needed, with a few except. Most notable was while pulling a trailered 2002 Lexus IS300 over Vail Pass. I’d gotten behind a slow moving RV and just couldn’t get speed back up to pass. I must have been at ~9,000+ ft above sea level, which really can tax power. Once or twice passing a little extra would have been nice as well, but not a big deal.

Oh yeah; I have a lite foot and good MPG.
 
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2001LC said:
VVTi in 100's are supposed to give better power in the higher band isn't it?

In my 2001 I’ve had all the power I’ve needed, with a few except. Most notable was while pulling a trailered 2002 Lexus IS300 over Vail Pass. I’d gotten behind a slow moving RV and just couldn’t get speed back up to pass. I must have been at ~9,000+ ft above sea level, which really can tax power. Once or twice passing a little extra would have been nice as well, but not a big deal.

Oh yeah; I have a lite foot and good MPG.
Click to expand...

I have not driven a VVTI myself, but I've felt the difference between the 4/5 speeds. The 5 speed will make a difference itself in the feeling between the two, although at that altitude with a trailered car I doubt even a VVTI would have enough power to pass.
 
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