So I basically inherited an '88 4Runner SR5 4x4 from a family friend. It had always been pretty well taken care of, plus not much rust as it spent most of its life in New Mexico.

What I'd like to do is make a sort of expeditionary vehicle out of it, no rock-crawling, or heavy mud running, but something that's more like a 4wd Pre-runner.

I've done some wrenching on cars in the past, but it's basic stuff, 1/2 axles, alternators, etc.. nothing like pulling an engine or tranny. So I'm coming to you guys for some help and suggestions on how best to proceed.

1. Make sure engine and running gear are solid
2. I'd like to extend the range(obviously through an aux tank)
3. I want to put a cargo basket on the roof
4. Add heavy duty bumpers with shackles and swing out tire rack
5. Update the comms with a large whip antenna
6. Would love a supercharger or turbo, but completely unnecessary for the initial build out

The truck currently has some 33" Michelins(I believe) and turn-lock hubs.

So what I'm looking for is best advice on how to do with these items. I can weld, but I don't have a shop or a lot of room for heavy plate construction. Pipe bending is also something I have limited access to. I have a decent shade-tree mechanics tool box.

Any help would be most appreciated and thanks in advance.

 

First things first.








Search.

 

1. Its a Toyota, how many miles are on it? run some tests, change the oil, inspect the chain/belt and accessory belts.
2. extend the range of... what?
3. easy to do. you'll need a roof clamp rack and basket from any company, i prefer yakima
4. Good luck, you'll be spending about 600+ a bumper unless you make it yourself
5. really easy to do, antenna's are dirt cheap
6. this shouldn't even be on your list of things to do. your truck is and always will be slow. the best you can do it regear it, put header or headers on it, and an intake mod and call it good... cams, supercharger, turbo, etc etc etc... all a waste of time and money. You can always go with the alternative though, which is an engine swap... much more revealing results than modifying the current motor.

 

Thanks for the information, I'll start doing some more research into the explicict areas I'd like to improve.

To clarify some things, I had put the supercharger/turbo on my list as more of a "one day" thing, not anything that's going to be installed any time soon.

Also, one thing I was looking to get out of the post was was how much of these things could I do on my own, or which ones would better be services/installed by pros.

Again, thanks for the replies

 

For a reccomendation of things to do yourself or get a pro....

1. Make sure engine and running gear are solid= Mechanic
2. I'd like to extend the range(obviously through an aux tank)= Research and do yourself
3. I want to put a cargo basket on the roof= Yourself
4. Add heavy duty bumpers with shackles and swing out tire rack= Weld and do yourself
5. Update the comms with a large whip antenna= Yourself
6. Fuhgettaboudit

 

$600 a bumper??? Where are you getting your bumpers from?

 

Throw a locker in the rear as well...
TRail-gear for your front and rear bumpers for less than 500 for both.
Check the gear ratio.... If it's not 4.88s make it that way.
Throw on a set of sliders and some belly armor.

 

Good ranking of things to do:
Engine and Drivetrain fixing
Protection
Lockers/Gears
Bigger Tires (You already have them!)