84-85 Trucks & 4Runners 2nd gen pickups and 1st gen 4Runners with solid front axles

Returning an 85 to its Former Glory

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Old 12-25-2014, 02:34 PM
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Returning an 85 to its Former Glory

Hey guys, I have returned to the Toyota realm with an 85.

The thing was in decent shape inside and rough outside. Had to go through the motor completely after some determined insects made a home inside it.

Right now, I have steering that's very "floaty". That's the best way I know to describe it, feels like driving a boat. How do I get it tighter and more responsive? I'm only interested in running 31's at this time.

Also, the suspension feels very rough. Possibly needing new leafs as well as new shocks. The rear is doing the classic sag, and I definitely want that leveled.

Most people on the threads I have seen want to lift as they restore, me not so much.
Old 12-25-2014, 06:11 PM
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Nice, post up some pics. You can tighten up or rebuild the drag link which should tighten up steering response. https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f115...-loose-202850/

Check all the other steering linkage points for play as well.

Old Man Emu makes springs which add about 1.5" of lift, as far as stock replacements I don't know.
Old 12-25-2014, 06:22 PM
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X2 for pics. Check for anything loose in the steering system.
The only floating my boat does it staying afloat lol. Sorry just had to
Old 12-25-2014, 10:53 PM
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your springs upfront are probably negatively arched. OME makes a nice set of stock length springs that only give a mild lift.

steering- the stock push pull steering on 79-85's leave a lot to be desired.
Tie Rod Ends etc could all be worn

on the steering box there is a provision to tighten the box slightly.
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Old 12-29-2014, 02:17 PM
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Returning an 85 to its Former Glory-image-2286209892.jpg

Well I'll have to do this one photo at a time for some reason.
Old 12-29-2014, 02:18 PM
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Fender
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Old 12-29-2014, 02:18 PM
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Rear needs love
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Old 12-29-2014, 02:18 PM
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Classic rust
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Old 12-29-2014, 02:21 PM
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Front left leaf
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Old 12-29-2014, 02:22 PM
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Vertigo seats FTW
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Old 12-29-2014, 02:22 PM
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Bezel intact and 80s radio
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Old 12-29-2014, 02:23 PM
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Motor...recently rebuit
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Old 12-29-2014, 02:26 PM
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Nice find!
Old 12-29-2014, 05:49 PM
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Nice, a little body work and set of springs and she'll treat you right for 30 more years.
Old 12-29-2014, 10:25 PM
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That is a nice truck you have. I always have liked the vertigo seats. I also like the chrome trim on the fenders but it is a rust magnet. Looking forward to your build.
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