woody77

I'm looking at selling my fullsize pickup (reg cab), and going with a 4runner for camping (Death Valley, Sierras). No big rocks, just just of rough and rocky roads (Mohagany Flats and Racetrack Playa in DV, and most of the blues in hollister, blacks optional, never mind the tank trap).

From what I've seen, for the money from selling my truck ('00 Dodge), I could pick up a 2nd gen 4runner and have enough cash to some nice buildup on it.

Roughly thinking about:

minor lift
33" (??) MTRs
ARB front bumper
Warn winch
some new recovery gear
PowerTank
Sliders
custom rear bumper/rack
etc.

I've been poking around here, and REALLY like Corey's rig. Very nicely done, and along the lines of what I'd like to do.

From my reading on here, it seems like the OME suspension is a good way to go, without getting too out of control, especially with the Sonoran brace and some of Downy brackets (idler brace).

My wife had an '87pathy, so I've seen the mess that an IFS can get itself into when it's be used (abused) for 10-15 years or so...

However, all the great new gear in the world is useless if I start with a crapped out truck that needs a ton of work to make it reliable. I'll be poking around some more on the "known weak points". The spreading of the rear control arm mounts is one that I've found already. I don't mind thrashed bushings. For this, I'm thinking I'll buy it, throw it in the garage, and fully pull apart the front-end (or engine), and reassemble with the right parts.

woody77

bump??

cootees

Welcome to Yotatech! Sounds like you have done some good research and have a great basis of knowledge on where to begin.

Paul H.

If you get a 2nd gen. then make sure the headgasket has been replaced, if not then see if dealer will replace it for free and now there is a recall for the steering relay rod on them. Other than that good luck in your search and welcome to Yotatech.

woody77

Thanks for the welcome. I learned a while ago to lurk for a bit, and dig through the forums to find at least some basic info before posting. NASIOC (subarus) will tear you apart for not doing so (but in a mostly friendly way).

Anyway, with the head gasket, was that a full recall item, or just a mostly recalled item? Are they just supposed to do it, or will they only do it if they decide that they like you?

Paul H.

It covers up to early 95 V6 models and if it has not been done, they are supposed to do it.