ndg4runner

My mechanical knowledge = oil changes + very minor repairs on my old Chevy....

I am knew to all of this but want to do as much work as humanly possible on my own. I bought this truck as a project because I want to learn.

That being said, there are several issue with the truck - first and foremost the front brakes. I took it to a very reputable mechanic and he said that I need to do a complete overhaul of the front brakes. So, I need to know:

1) What parts do I buy? I know I will need rotors, calipers, and brake pads; but, what else? Also, I am missing the lug nut studs for 2 of my rims... Should I buy/replace these at the same time and, if so, what is that piece called?

2) What tools will I need? I know and have the basics - wrenches (to include a torque wrench), jack/stands, etc. Is there anything else I should buy/borrow that will make my life easier?

3) Where should I buy parts? There are about a trillion online retailers and autoparts stores to choose from. Is there one that has been proven the most useful to you? I plan to buy most parts online and I would prefer buying everything necessary from the same location...

4) I would like to modify the Runner to be better equipped to handle trails - nothing major mind you (no rock climbing, etc.) - is it recommended to upgrade your brakes for that, or will OEM equivalent parts suffice?


I did already try to find a write-up on this subject, but was unable. I am very new to this site so maybe I just need more experience with it. I did find a lot about brakes in general, but they were mostly for specific issues, i.e. soft brakes, cylinder replacement, etc. I wasn't able to decipher between them all what exactly I should be doing. If you know (or can find) a post that already has the above information, please point me in the right direction!

I'm excited to be starting with this site! It looks like there are a lot of good people on here with a vast amount knowledge, so, thanks in advance for the help!

mudpunisher

1- lug studs and nuts, and yes put them in at this time as the hub will have to come off to change the rotor anyways. also inspect and repack the front wheel bearings with new grease. also ive had problems with the dorman type that most parts stores have, some of the toyota site have them or the dealer is the best bet
2- brass drift and hammer if you have manual hubs to remove the cone washers(not sure if they are on the auto hubs, maybe someone can confirm).
3- trail gear has everything but a bit pricey for everything, local parts store would be fine just get the good stuff, not the cheapo.
4- you already have the v6 brakes which will be fine up to about 35" tire, while your doing it check and adjust the rear drums. usually over looked and help alot. eventually may want to convert to rear disc if your gonna be running 35 and up tires.

TNRabbit

Good luck!!

rokblok

iTrader: (1)

I'm in Tampa for work if you are looking to do this very soon and need a hand.

StewsRunner

iTrader: (1)

Hey man I just did the same work as you want to do. Don't forget the 54mm spindle socket, snap ring pliers, PB blaster, and for repacking the bearings you'll need a new seal, grease, and I recommend a bearing packer and a seal puller. Chef recommended it to me and I'm recommending it to you, just as messy but I definitely felt more comfortable. You'll probably need another guy to hold the rotor while you crack the bolts holding the rotor and hub together when you replace the wheel studs.

TNRabbit

Just put the rotor in a vice~

ldivinag

the caliper holddown bolts? make sure you torque them down to FSM specs. which IIRC is 105 ft/pounds.

and in case you loose them and the calipers gets stuck in your wheel while travelling down a highway in calif on THANKSGIVING DAY, the transmission crossmember bolts will do in a pinch.

do ask me why i know that fact...

ndg4runner

Thank you all for the help! TNRabbit - I appreciate the tips, it will definitely come in handy.

@rokblok - How long are you in Tampa for? I am not planning on doing this project for another week as I will need that time to procure all the parts. I would definitely love the help though!

I'm going to take all of this advice and get all the parts together and a game plan. I will post my results, parts,tools, cost, headaches, pics, etc. after (maybe that needs to be in a different forum?) Hopefully that will help some of the other noobs like me out there!