Hey, yet another question. I really want a pre-runner style front bumper for my runner. I saw an awesome one on downey's web site, but it has to be used in conjunction with a 1995-2000 era front Tacoma bumper. The pic and description is here It is the pro-desert guard, configuration 2. I was basically going to take off my brush guard, and my front bumper and swap in a 1998 Taco front bumper, then buy the desert guard, and cut up the new bumper, so everything will work. Basically, I was just wondering, is the Taco bumper a staright bolt on to the 4runner, or will there be some rigging involved. As I rmemebr the ARB bumpers for the Taco worked with the 4runner, so a OEM Taco bumper should just bolt right up right? I don't want to get in over my head before I buy anything. Thanks!!!

 

Hey JHupp, I came across this article on customtacos.com. Although they're doing just the opposite: putting a 4Runner bumper/fascia on a Taco, it may give you some insight. Follow this link:

http://customtacos.com/tech/index.php?article=42

Hope this helps

 

From a cost perspective, it may be cheaper to just have someone fab up a prerunner style front bumper for your 3rd gen. There are a few of these here in Socal. I know Demello makes these but I'm not sure if your truck needs to be here.

 

I agree with you, I would love a pre-runner style bumper. There are a couple very well executed custom examples I've seen here:

Robinhood's: https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f88/front-tube-bumper-multi-mount-winch-87892/

BajaTaco also has an extensive write-up of his custom bumer on his website.

The most drool inducing example, however has to belong to Good Times ( check out his profile)...makes me want a 4th gen reeaaaalllll bad.

http://www.chaosedition.com/

 

hmmmmm, it always seems as if customtacos.com is doing just the opposite as us. This will be useful in reverse enginering this. I'm gonna try to pick up a cheap front bumper from someone that has done an ARB/TJM swap, and see what I can do. Theoretically this shouldnt be too hard, but on the other hand.....

 

Also, there are no reputable local fab shops here. Last time I checked, both Demello and Downey wanted the truck at the shop, which I could not do. I think my best bet is going to be swapping in a Taco bumper, and using a Taco pre-runner bar. My fab skills are very very limited, and this actually seems to be very cost effective, and it should be easy. Thanks for the links!