I have come to the conclusion that if I want to keep my 4runner for any extended period of time, I have to make the frame rust free and solid. I have never done this before and am asking for anybodys input on removing the body. Any tips, hints, methods used, special tools, any information you can provide will help in undertaking this project. Should I unbolt the body mounts and start jacking it up and just start disconnecting anything that starts to get tight or is there a specific order of operations that I might want to follow? Again, anything will help, its a 1988 4runner, 3.0, 5spd. Thank you!

 

I have changed frames on a pickup, but cant really see much diffference in a 4runner other than heavier. Dont start lifting first. Yes you need to remove or loosen several things. Radiator, Steering from the gear box, wiring, gear shift, water hoses from firewall, speedometer cable, brake cable, all of your tail lights under passenger seat, are just some of the things that I can think of right off. Mark all wiring, I used the numbers 1/1 , 2/2 and so on. Im sure there is more but I cant think of it right off. When you start lifting, go slow and make sure you havent missed anything. Have some well made sawhorses, I didnt have a hydraulic lift, so I used heavy bumper jacks or if you can get enough help you might want to just manhandle it. I got the front high enough to clear the motor and rolled the frame and motor out but it has to go high. Mine was the 22re, it isnt as hard as you might think. Something about removing a body and doing the frame is rewarding. Not many get to do it. Good luck