I am interested in changing the tailgate on a 99 4Runner to a tail gate of a Hilux Surf. This is because I want a tire carrier and it would be unique. Do you think the cost of getting one over to the states from Japan is worth it? Or do you think just getting a custom wheel carrier made would be more cost effective? And the most important question are the tail gates interchangeable with minimal modification if any? Thanks.



*edit just noticed that the wheel carrier is attached to the body of the truck on the side. So a simple tail gate swap would not be possible. * :pat:

 

Ya, there is sheetmetal reinforcement on the rigs with the rear tire carriers, so a simple swap isn't possible.

 

That sure would be nice to see on a 3rd gen in North America.

 

In XX years when the 4Runner needs a new paint job I'm going to add a JDM tire carrier then place an aux fuel/fresh water tank where the old spare used to go. Too bad that'll be a long time from now unless I get rear ended...better knock on wood

 

I agree those factory spare real wheel carriers look cool, but while I hate to dampen anyones enthusiasm, they're not supposed to be very strong if you like to take your truck offroad.

I had thought about using the swing-out part of the Surf's tire carrier and mounting that to a bracket on my rear bar.
Alternatively you could just 'copy' the design, and if it was mounted close enough to the tailgate it would look almost the same, but you wouldn't risk bending the bodywork due to the extra weight.

Mind you, if you were to run a large support up inside the body to mount the carrier you'd have one funky looking Runner... I mean Surf, or 4Runner maybe