I want to turn my xtracab into a 4Runner.

Yeah, you read it right. And yes, it would be easier to just trade or buy/sell, yada yada yada. I know this. But I'm not going for it. My rear axle is brand new, the transmission works great, and the headgasket on the motor is less than a year old.

For those of you that have not read my body swap thread for back when I rolled my 84 in Summer 2007, I am very experienced with the truck overall.

However the "parts Runner" is an IFS rig and I require some opinions to accomodate my latest plan:

1) SAS- pros: plenty of writeups. cons: this kit falls out of my "salary" (broke ass college kid with a min. wage job)

2) Cut the front end off both frames (right at the firewall) and weld my SAS "area" of the frame to the 4Runner frame.

3) "Bob" the frame in front of the rear tire to achieve the correct wheelbase and weld the different 4Runner body mounts in the rear.

From what I understand, the only difference between 84-88 4Runner frames and shortbed/standard cab frames is the height of the two rearward body mounts near the tailgate. Could someone please clarify this?

Opinions are well appreciated, so long as they do not pertain to selling my 84. Sorry, not an option I prefer building to buying, and never liked the DMV much. Also, starting with a new vehicle for me is kind of like "starting over". If something doesn't work in after I finish the process, it probably has to do with that item I second-guessed and what not.

 

Perhaps you could modify the body of the 84 to have a shell on the bed and connect into the cab?

 

I admire your gumption, sir. I see no need to try and steer you down a different path. All I can say is do your homework, post a detailed buildup thread, and ask lots of questions. Good luck to you, my friend.

 

Ah, good suggestion. However that would cause major problems in the long run. You see, no matter how sturdy you make a frame, they twist (like a DNA strand only less obvious).

4Runners and Blazers can get away with their designs simply because they have a shorter wheelbase. That measly 10" of extra length on my frame may be all it takes for extra twisting, causing my bodywork, fiberglass, and whatever bodymods to possibly crack and seperate.

That, and I want to mount a seat in the back that looks comfortable and stock looking.

Lastly, there is an IFS 4Runner body and frame I can purchase for a harmless 200 bucks and its right here in town. In fact, an old friend of mine is the one selling it. Thats why I am in such a frenzy to figure out the EASIEST way to accomodate my latest desires

Thanks! I appreciate the support. Unfortunately I could not find a specific answer to my question regarding the frame differences on either this site or pirate4x4. Now it comes to question-posting-time.

And of course good sir, build-up and body swap threads are a necessity.

 

Well I do not have much info on your questions...but I can say that I just put a(n) 85 removable top on my 89' standard cab. Mounted up decent, I made some new mounts and j hooks. It sticks up about and inch over the cab as one member had told me it would. But all in all, it looks awesome. I love it. I am going to make a swing out spare tire carrier for my tailgate with a few other small goodies. I also need to make a rear hatch for the runner cap. The glass was smashed out. Good luck with your quest.

 

Seems it would be easier and safer to fab a front spring hanger and place rear shackle through the frame to mount front axle than to half two frame to try and make a hole. Or did I miss something?

 

Yeah, that piece is included in a SAS kit, but then I figured out I'd have to weld shackle tubes, shock hoops, and convert to hi-steer since my stock steering box won't work. Too much money.

Instead, I've found a guy that'll sell me a 1985 short wheelbase truck frame for a little over 100 bucks. The 4Runner should fit up perfectly, if not I'd rather change body mounts then do a SAS swap. ANd then I nab the 4Runner body (already bobbed) for 100-200 bucks.

Other than having to alter the fiberglass top to fit a bobbed bed, everything should be bolt on. No problemo If I can collect all the parts I'm after, I'll be sure and have a thorough, picture-plenty thread for ya!