Ok,
Time for my first YTF Thread.
I have recently Picked up a 94 SR5 2WD.

Yes, I would prefer a 4wd but for 2k I just had to get it.
I bet that was my first mistake, but I've overcome bigger obstacles back in my Integra days.

My plan is to make a list of mods and prioritize them buy cost and compatibility with future upgrades.

As of this point my first goal is to clean up the beast.
With 275,000 miles I imagine i have allot to do.

My first question is "what should i look for or replace first"?
keep in mind
~rebuilt 3.0 [but i don't know the mechanic]
~perfect body [excluding the hood, faded.]
~may need new Tranny soon?!?!

I also plan on converting to 4x4 but with solid axle system. if the price isn't to ridiculous. I Live in San Diego and have a abundance of recking yards for 4x4 parts.

So my next question is " What can I do to SAVE money while building a monster crawler"?

I know I got big plans already but I'm one of those guys that gets obsessed about everything I do. I also just kicked PC gaming habit and this will fill the hole, so big projects don't scare me!

 

First off, nice find. 2k for a runner is a nice price.

3.0 in a 96? Are you sure it isn't a 3.4? (huge difference)
If your engine was just rebuilt and the tranny doesn't make any noise, has no leaks and appropriate fluid level then you're probably in good shape. Inspect the differential in the same way as the tranny. If all that checks out you're probably in a place to start dreaming.

Part of the problem with building a "moster crawler" is everything is build on everything else. Tires will be proportional to lift, lift will incorporate that sas swap. tires will also warrant regearing. I would start by making the truck more "comfortable". Steroes are fairly inexpensive, especially if you do the work yourself.

If you end up needing tranny work I know a shop south of downtown than hooked me up with a rebuilt tranny, clutch and install for less than a grand. PM me if you want more info

 

There's another post about the 96+ sas conversion here:
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f120...stions-180999/

Based what is said you might want to consider using the 96 as a DD and buy an older p/u or runner that you can go crazy on. 85 is a pretty awesome year, 22re efi & solid axle

 

Wow Typo, its a 94...
Not even the same body style 0.0. But thats why I posted in the noobie section. And yes i plan on keeping this my "DD" for a year or so. Hopefully less, I'd like to get a nicer truck soon but i got a few credit issues atm.

I have done sound systems before and , well its not worth posting for me but, makeing my 2x4 A 4x4 and saving on insurance for having a 2x sounds like a little fun. I do wonder if smog laws check drive train, or just emissions?

I also have located a 4x that is not from from being crushed, i think i can get a good deal on the drive train.

 

if you were to go the route of an all around wheeler/crawler you could sticker it and tow it (slowly, that 3.0's a dog).

You could also try to find someone w/ a 4x4 willing to trade, with everyone flippin out about gas mileage someone might be quick to unload their 4x4 (of course, my 22re w/ 4x4 gets up to 25 or more mpg on the highway )