Hey all, I currently have a 96 4Runner with 170,000 on the odometer. I recently put a Spartan Locker in the rear and have come to some crossroads after wheeling it for a bit. The 4Runner is in need of new suspension and I would like to get trail armor if I will continue to wheel it. However, after all is said and done, it would be about the same price as buying a dedicated wheeler. What are your thoughts? I am a college student who doesn't have loads of time to fix things but I don't want to wreck the daily driver either.

 

Its tough to say, I don't know what the college grants are in WA, but I know in California you seriously get a good grip of money for multiple things. It almost seems there's no such thing as a broke college student in California.

But if I were you? Think about a couple of things. What's more important? wheeling the truck or finishing your college career? If you think you can afford to pick up a little beater that get 40+ mpg for 1000-2000 dollars, go for it. 2wd trucks are cheap here in California. Wouldn't expect them to be too expensive in WA.

 

How do you define Dedicated Wheeler??

Something you Trailer to the trail ??

I have not been out west in a very long time but if your on public land don`t you need to be registered and have insurance.

That would be the deciding factor .

Can you afford the insurance and up keep of another vehicle??

Do you live at home so you have a safe place to park another vehicle??

 

Fellow Washington yota guy here. I would not go the two truck route unless you are able to take a bath on it if you have to sell it fast. Just saying. Also where do you park your broken wheeler (yes even Toyotas do break on occasion) while you get the parts to fix it. Also if you are buying a dedicated wheeler mate you going to have the time go through it and fix whats in need when you pick her up. There always a few "important" things that need fixing.
Short term I would respectfully wheel your rig. Not sure what you mean by replace the suspension. Is that need or want? Not sure how you actually break a whole suspension. But I am sure I could probably manage after a while. If it is just worn out. IE loose bushings ball joints and tierod ends need to be replaced then replace them wheel it gently and buy a wheeler when you get settled after school. Just a thought there. Anyways I will stop rambling. Good luck

 

Thanks for your replies. I didn't think about the insurance part of things. That is a very good point. That pretty much solves my question. And what I meant by the suspension needing replacement is it rides on the bumpstops in the rear with no extra weight in it, all the shocks and struts are original and need replacement. The front coils the only part that aren't worn out. I also need to replace a bushing in the panhard I believe. The rear end wags around when off camber.

Also, I was willing to trailer and have a trailer already. But seeing as it is irrevelant. Thanks for all your help.