So yeah, finally found a yard with a few 3rd gens and snagged a 99 console and overhead console. I got to thinking, I have an auto tranny and have never used the E-brake. I'm debating replacing the opening where the handle comes out with ABS plastic cut to hold the factory switches (such as ECT, rear window, etc).

Also, since I can get the parts for next to nothing and live in MN, as well as since I have the time and have the interior out, how hard is it to retrofit rear heat? I searched and found very little on the subject.

PS Anybody need any interior parts or the such? I'm going back tomorrow to see what other various "options" I'd like to add to my 98 Limited. Know of any other vehicles that had cool options I could swap over? I'm in a phase where I feel like I can do anything with a little fiberglass, filler, and paint.

 

the only time i really ever use my ebrake is offroading. i am not going to rely on the tranny to hold my 4000 pound truck on a 40 degree incline...

 

Here's an idea I had... what if I mounted the E-brake assembly under the vehicle (maybe on frame or crossmember) and clipped and put new end on the cable... that way it would be there if I would really need it but would be out of the way... is that an outlandish idea?

 

well youd have to get out of your car to apply it, and all the weight would shift on the tranny when you took your foot off the brake to get out.

 

Can't you just get the e-brake assembly and your done?

I barely park on hills but it is second nature for me to put on the e-brake

I wish i had the money, i would ask if you could find another one of those center consoles and the e-brake assembly for me.

I know you have an auto, but lets say your brakes go out on you one day, that is what the E-brake is for...

 

There's a reason folks call it an E-brake, and some call it a parking brake. I drive a 5 speed but still call it an E-brake, as in "Emergency" brake, and only use it for parking when parking on an incline. If for whatever crazy reason my brakes do actually fail with the truck in motion (i.e. "emergency"), I want a backup for bringing it to a stop. In response to the question in your thread title, I'd say yes, we all need an E-brake. In an automatic, only use it when parking on an incline, so as to not put unnecessary stress on the cable.

But maybe I'm too cautious....

 

http://www.4runners.org/articles/cupholder/index.html
Here is a mod on the 98 updating to 99.

 

I should have clarified, I bought this console to do this mod... and I have the 99 E-brake assembly & brackets... I just hate how much of the precious console space the lever takes up.

 

You might want to check your local laws. I believe e-brakes are a Federal as well as local requirement. Make sure you retain all the parts if you ever want to sell your rig.

 

You are talking about relocating the e-brake correct? I don't think it'd be the easiest mod, but definitely not the worst. Not sure how the 99 mechanism differs from yours, but keep us updated.

 

the rear heater parts needed:

controls and center console
motor, heater and wiring under the passenger seat
the hardlines under the body going to the engine compartment.
the bypass valves at the firewall and cabling.

 

Hey where are you at? I'm in Plymouth. If you find a nice glovebox in Tan/Oak let me know. Mine is all scratched up from the previous owner.

 

Hey, I just saw a 2000 oak console without heat. I didn't buy it, but they wanted $75 for it. It was in pretty good shape. I may snag it anyhow so I can choose between heat and no heat.

Bruce, I'm not sure if you have rear heat, but does it have decent output? Would it be worth my time getting the rest of the parts from the yard?

 

I actually use my rear heat a lot in the winter warm up the entire runner quick.

I like it, plus you put an air freshener right on the fan and instantly the Wendy's Fast Food Smell Is gone!