FLYFISHEXPERT'S 4Runner

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

I would like to introduce you to 'June' the stink bug.

I will be using this thread to document the very slow transformation of my 1998 4Runner SR5. Hope you enjoy


The 'Current State' of my 4Runner
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TIukuIZleAI/AAAAAAAABXo/PTXdEbsJV-U/s800/DSCF2654.JPG

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-i6735hEQr90/Ter0iCQagOI/AAAAAAAADI8/K1lJKYHKGDs/s800/DSC_3713.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-SxitTAUv6Rs/Ter0kaqyV4I/AAAAAAAADJA/EFJyHPS-PPM/s800/DSC_3717.JPG

Current list of modifications in the order I completed them:

Deckplate and ISR mods
3-Cell Mag-Lite mounted below driver's seat
Fire extinguisher mounted below passenger rear seat
Running boards removed
Unhappy99 Spring Mod (http://www.yotatech.com/f2/fixed-stupid-plastic-clutch-pedal-bushing-19137/)
IPF 968's installed on front bumper (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=292936)
265/75R16 Cooper Discoverer ST tires mounted to factory Al wheels (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=292937#post292937)
Yaesu 1802 2m radio (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=292950#post292950)
Tundra rotor and caliper upgrade (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=324551#post324551)
LED Aux. backup light (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=365959#post365959)
Marlin Crawler clutch kit (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=438333#post438333)
Custom built rear drawer system and sleeping platform extension (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=442216#post442216)
Custom built chromoly roof basket with built-in light hoop (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=455759#post455759)
IPF 968's relocated to roof basket
Front Lift: OME N91S/OME 882/ToyTec Diff Drop
Rear Lift: LX450 Front Coils ('96), OEM LC80 Shocks (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=627833#post627833)
265/75R16 TreadWright Guard Dog Tires (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/20259-FLYFISHEXPERT-S-4Runner?p=933133#post933133)

Recovery Gear/Accessories:

48" Cast/Steel Hi-Lift Jack
Hi-Lift Lift-Mate
Hi-Lift Off-Road Kit
30' Strap
10' Tree saver
Harbor Freight 12V compressor
Shovel-Mounted to Roof Basket
Safety Seal Tire Repair Kit


Future Plans:

New Skid Plate
High-Output Alternator (http://www.yotatech.com/f2/cs-144-alternator-install-209649/)
Sliders
Custom Front and Rear Tube Bumpers
Toyota E-Locker



The day we brought her home.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF1664.jpg

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

The Deckplate Mod

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF2365.jpg

The Deckplate Mod Installed
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF2366.jpg

Running Boards Removed
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF3440.jpg

I decided I would cut the fender flare transition to the running board to finish the look
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF1960.jpg

I then decided to remove the rear mud flaps
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF3438.jpg

Nothing fancy, but here you go. I followed the 4runners.org (http://4runners.org/writeups/hella500/index.html) writeup, but spaced my lights out to 12" instead of 10.5

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF4293.jpg

55watt bulbs
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF4232.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF4233.jpg

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well it was time for new tires and after much research, I decided to purchase the Cooper Discoverer S/T in 265/75R16. I gained 1" of clearence thanks to the larger diameter and the fact the 245/75R16 Discoverer ATR's were completely worn down.
Here are the before and after pictures:
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF4248.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF4257.jpg

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF4256.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF4265.jpg

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF4255.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/DSCF4264.jpg

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/2008/Scout%20Mountain%206-21/DSCF4643.jpg

UPDATE:6-16-08
I am impressed with these tires. Since purchasing them in April, I driven through snow and rain covered roads, made a couple trips out to the desert and a road trip rockhounding south of Jackpot, NV. What a huge incrase in traction from my old Discoverer ATR's. These tires offer a lot more grip over the ATR's, and the same amount if not more than the BFG AT's I had on my Jeep. Granted vehicle dynamics are at play here too, but I do believe they may be better.

Here are my impressions:
Pavement: The noise from these tires isn't as bad as people make it out to be. It peaks at 55-65mph and then the general wind noise takes over. The reduction in pavement traction is noticible in corners and cross winds on the interstate, we usualy get gusts up to 40mph. In all I am pleased with the pavement traction.
Wet Traction: Wet traction was quite good and I have not experienced any hydroplaning as of yet. I believe this is due to the radial voids clearing out water.
Snow Traction: Not driven enough to know
Off-Road: I am really impressed with the traction of these tires off-road. Believe I have only had the tires slip once and that was while crawling up a mud and snow covered trail to one of the near by buttes. They really just dig in and go. Times when I figured I would get some wheel spin, they just crawled right up. So far I have had them on dusty desert trails, rocky mountain trails, and loose gravel roads. They do throw rocks, but I don't believe as bad as my old BFG ATs did. These tires rock!!!

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Thanks to jeffryscott and Paul R, I was able to install the Yaesu 1802 into the 4Runner with out any issues.

I ordered the radio from Universalradio.com along with the antenna and antenna mounting do-dads I would need. Here is my order:

qty order manufact. model description
1 1802 YAESU FT1802M XCVR 2M 50W
1 1067 LARSEN NMO-QC 2M 1/4W ANT & W200
1 1274 LARSEN NMO-K MTG .5IN TO 17FT RG58 PL
1 1077 LARSEN TMB34 TRUNK L-BRACKET CHROME.75

I installed the transceiver in the lower DIN slot below my stereo. I used 4 8-32x1" machine screws plus 8 8-32 nuts and drilled an extra hole in the factory DIN bracket per the measurement I took off of the transceiver:
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5608.jpg

I then secured the transceiver to the DIN bracket with the above hardware.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5613-1.jpg

The resulting DIN assembly:
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5609.jpg

I attached the antenna bracket to the front driver-side fender using two of the supplied screws and ran the coax cable through the firewall.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5539.jpg

I bunched the remaining coax in a bow and cinched it down with a zip-tie. Using a razor blade, I cut the insulation back as per the instructions and soldered the supplied plug to the end. (sorry no picture)

I was forced to cut the fuses off of the supplied wiring harness to fit the wiring through the fire wall. I later reattached them and soldered the connections.

After running the wiring through the firewall, I routed it through some corrugated tubing along with the wiring for my off-road lights.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5650.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5649.jpg

I installed the DIN back into the dash and now all I have to do is cut some 26 ga sheet to create a fill panel around the transceiver and I am home free.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5614.jpg

I installed the mic clip using one of the 3M poster adhesive strips, the ones with the tab that allows them to be pulled back off of the wall, just to the right of the head-unit.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well, I finished up the 2m install. I took some 26ga steel and cut a filler panel to cover the gap around the transceiver.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5706.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5715.jpg

The 3M strip ended up pulling off, but it did give me an idea of the best location. I didn't want to go and drill a bunch of holes to mount everything, so I ended up bending the mic clip and drilling two holes above the HVAC controls.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5707.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5709.jpg

So here is everything all finished up.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/2M/DSCF5721.jpg

[Scott Brady]

Great truck. Good to see you here!

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well I had a caliper lock up on me this past week, so I decided to upgrade my front breaks to those from a 2001 Toyota Tundra. This upgrade has been extensively covered here (http://www.yotatech.com/f2/tundra-brakes-3rd-gen-91911/) and here (http://www.yotatech.com/f2/01-tundra-brakes-installed-98-gen-3-4runner-146160/), so I won't bore you with the details in this post.

I do plan one day on pulling an AT or the equivalent when camping, so for me the major benefit will be the increased heat capacity of the rotors when pulling a trailer. I don’t know that there is a large difference in in-town breaking performance as there isn’t much of a difference in caliper design between the factory 4Runner and the 2001 Tundra. The piston size is the same, but the break pads are slightly larger.

There are two different sizes of calipers that are available, 199mm and 231mm. I went with the 199’s as the 231’s require modification to the caliper and factory 16” aluminum wheels.

Anyway, on with the pictures.
You can see the difference in rotor width is substantial:
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Tundra%20Breaks/DSCF5923.jpg

Not much of a difference in caliper size:
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Tundra%20Breaks/DSCF5926.jpg

One trick I found was to use these little guys to cover the end of the break line when it was disconnected. They worked really well preventing break fluid from dripping all over the place.
http://www.buyhardwaresupplies.com/?t=5&itemNumber=1202654
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Tundra%20Breaks/DSCF5921.jpg

Here is every thing installed! It took me about 1hr per side to complete.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Tundra%20Breaks/DSCF5929.jpg

So far, so good. I bed everything in last night after I completed the installation. It is nice to know my caliper won’t lock up on me anymore. I was growing concerned about commuting to work in the interstate and having it lock up sending me into a roll.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

I had been looking at options for backup lighting for some time and liked the idea of using LEDs to provide the light source. As things happened, I was able to acquire a Grote LED work light for free!! I spent a couple of hours yesterday wiring everything up. So here we go:

I mounted the light using one of the existing holes for the rear spoiler/wind deflector.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Lighting/DSCF0091.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Lighting/DSCF0093.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Lighting/DSCF0094.jpg

I ran the wires down the weather striping for the back hatch and through the grommit for the passenger side tail light. From there I grounded the light inside the cab and ran the power to a switch on the center consol.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Lighting/DSCF0107.jpg

Power came from one of those 'Add-A-Circuit' fuse deals and a 2 amp fuse.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Lighting/DSCF0108.jpg

Factory Backup Lights
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Lighting/DSCF0102.jpg

New LED Backup Light
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Lighting/DSCF0105.jpg

Combined
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Lighting/DSCF0104.jpg

[mr.trd]

Nice work Beau. Still liking the tires with all the weird variations of weather we had this winter and today? I know some days I really like mine and some days I can't stand them and really want something new....

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

The Cooper ST's have been great. I have had them for a year now and they have wore like iron. I have noticed a couple of small chips, probably from the lava, but nothing major. I need to trim the fender liner because they rub on mid turn and full compression, but not bad. Snow isn't bad, but ice can suck at times, especially with the wind we get over here. I-15 between Pocatello and Blackfoot can be scary at times, but as long as you are not stupid, they are great. I figured that is what Commercial Tire has on their fleet trucks, so whey not. Plus I got an employee discount.

I had compared them versus the ones sold at Les Schwab, under the Dean name, but I felt the Coopers had a better tread design for wet conditions. Would defiantly purchase them again, maybe next time in 255/85!

[Redline]

Although louder, I like the Cooper S/T tread design over the similar Dean SXT. Just looking at the voids I think it's easy to see the S/T has an advantage in sloppy conditions (mud, snow, slush). A slightly higher void ratio.


The Cooper ST's have been great. I have had them for a year now and they have wore like iron. I have noticed a couple of small chips, probably from the lava, but nothing major. I need to trim the fender liner because they rub on mid turn and full compression, but not bad. Snow isn't bad, but ice can suck at times, especially with the wind we get over here. I-15 between Pocatello and Blackfoot can be scary at times, but as long as you are not stupid, they are great. I figured that is what Commercial Tire has on their fleet trucks, so whey not. Plus I got an employee discount.

I had compared them versus the ones sold at Les Schwab, under the Dean name, but I felt the Coopers had a better tread design for wet conditions. Would defiantly purchase them again, maybe next time in 255/85!

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Marlin Crawler HD Clutch Kit ordered!!!

Noticed on my way to work yesterday that the clutch was slipping more than usual, so I bit the bullet and ordered one of Marlin's Kits. Now to just find a day next week to install it.

[shawkins]

Are you going to have the flywheel resurfaced?

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Are you going to have the flywheel resurfaced?

I think by the time I pay to have it resurfaced, I could pay for a new Luk from Autozone (http://www.autozone.com/autozone/catalog/parts/partsProduct.jsp?itemIdentifier=876973_0_0_&skuDescription=Luk+/+Flywheel+-+Manual+Transmission&brandName=Luk&displayName=Flywheel+-+Manual+Transmission&categoryNValue=&sortType=&store=1190&isSearchByPartNumber=&fromWhere=&fromString=&itemId=prod61092&navValue=11200906&filterByKeyWord=&productId=876973&appQuestionText=&searchText=&categoryDisplayName=Drivetrain&parentId=cat30054&questions=%5B%5D). So I think that is the direction I am going to go.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well, I got the new clutch installed… Word to the wise, rent a friend and some pneumatic tools! It took me about 12 hours start to finish to get everything done. 10 years and 135K miles tends to seize bolts so much of the time was spent waiting for PB Blaster to work. I ended up using an OEM flywheel instead of the Luk, because I was told the Luks were on backorder.

Front Skid Plate off: 10 years of oil changes meant everything up front was covered in a nice thick layer of motor oil, dirt, and apparently grass.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/clutch/IMGP2785.jpg

Here it is on jack stands, I wish it stood this tall all of the time.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/clutch/IMGP2783.jpg

The flywheel was tough, but I ended up using a cheap screwdriver, slid through one of the holes in the flywheel, to keep it from rotating while I removed and installed the flywheel bolts. Note: I broke this cheap screwdriver tightening the bolts back up.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/clutch/IMGP2791.jpg

Old flywheel vs. new flywheel:
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/clutch/IMGP2794.jpg

Old clutch disc:
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/clutch/IMGP2802.jpg

So far I am very satisfied with the clutch. It was a huge improvement over what was in there. I have not had it in the dirt yet, I still need to get some more highway miles on it first. So far I am impressed, and Marlin Crawler was good to work with.

[ttora4runner]

Wow that's alot of mud on the skid plate.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

I started this weekend on a rear sleeping platform/drawer system for the back of the 4Runner. I wanted some thing that would be a little more versatile than just two drawers. I wanted to still be able to store the 7gal reliance jug behind the passenger wheel well, and I wanted to be able to remove one of the drawers and fold down one of the rear seats to store shotguns for hunting season, don't worry I fully unload all long guns and shot guns prior to storing in the vehicle.

I ended up going with two sets of 24" slides from Lowe's and placed a cubbie behind the drawers. One side of the cubbie is fully boxed out and the driver side I left open to allow for the guns.

I built everything out of 5/8 plywood. Here are some pics.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6572.jpg

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6571.jpg

I used cardboard to trace the profile of the wheel well.
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6576.jpg

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6588.jpg

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6584.jpg

I am going to cover the top with bed liner and build the drawers this week.

Anybody use store purchased bed liner before? What are some good ones? I picked up some Dupli-Color stuff, but I don't think it has enough texture for my taste.

Because I wanted to have a full width platform for the rear section, 53", I am using brass cabinet screws to secure the top to the base. This will allow me to remove the top from the vehicle by tilting it at and angle and well it takes some practice. :sombrero:

The next items I need to build will be the drawers, and the front extension for the sleeping platform.

[ttora4runner]

Try the 3M Rubberized bed coating. It goes on thicker than the duplicolor and has a better texture.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

I installed the drawers last night and had some extra time so I painted the platform top and drawer slides with Herculiner. Two coats turned out pretty good.

I still have to:
install a locking mechanism for the drawers
install the hinges for the front cubby area
find a decent recessed tie down and install 5 (one at each corner and one in the center)
build the front sleeping platform extension
trim out more of the edges
finish painting the exposed wood surfaces

Now to the Pictures:
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6599.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6601.jpg
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6603.jpg

[RusM]

What breed of dog is that?

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Here is the top after one coat
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6597.jpg

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

What breed of dog is that?

German Wirehair Pointer... Great bird dogs!

[RusM]

Yep, just had to put down my 13 year old wirehair. She was a really good dog and would have still been hunting right up until the end, except she had only three legs. I've never seen the liver/white in a wirehair before. I thought you were rocking some sort of other weird continental versatile breed. Where did the dog come from? I've been thinking about getting another hunting dog and I sure liked the wirehairs.
Did you finish that concrete yourself?

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Sorry to hear about your loss. Losing a dog/hunting companion is tough.

Interesting story about our dog. We actually picked him up from the animal shelter of all places. He was picked up hanging around a small town south of us. I am not sure about the circumstances for him being on his own, but I am sure he probably escaped... This dog has hops! He was always jumping over, nearly clearing, the 6' fence at the shelter. Anyway, we had been in the market for one and my wife saw him and the next day we picked him up. Later a vet friend of mine recognized Gus as one of the dogs from a local breeder that had packed up and moved away about the same time Gus was found wandering that town. My vet has one that looks very similar to ours. Let me tell you white is the way to go when hunting in thick cover!

The concrete was done by the builder.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well I have spent the last couple nights finishing the trim on the drawers. I used 1/16"x3/4"x3/4" AL angle I picked up from Lowe's for like $8 for 8'. I have a little adjusting to do. Because of the slight crown of the back 'threshold' I had to trim the lower section of the right drawer by 1/8" to get everything to fit. Now the two drawers are not the same height, so I need to do the same to the left.

In all I am pleased. I will post some pictures of the platform extension when I get them done.

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6618.jpg

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/Rear%20Platform/DSCF6616.jpg

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

I just finished my roof basket. :wings: You can see the build here (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=455757#post455757).
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa211/beaukrista/4x4/roof%20basket/DSCF6624.jpg

[BlueBomber]

how is the "shotgun well" working out? do you still like your water setup? would you change anything if you were to do it over again?

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

how is the "shotgun well" working out? do you still like your water setup? would you change anything if you were to do it over again?

Everything is working rather well. We just got back from a 1600 mile road trip with camping, rockhounding, and fly fishing and the setup worked great. I have a couple things to tweak, but I could not be happier.

Here was our camping setup:
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs257.snc1/10427_1052909741364_1784404091_106651_5696705_n.jp g

The drawers are strong enough to set the stove on, and the 'feet' of the stove fit just right into the drawer to keep it in place.
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs257.snc1/10427_1052911141399_1784404091_106684_3433130_n.jp g

My wife is happy with the setup, so that is a plus :wings:

I will have to snap some pictures of the shotgun area when used.

[Vency]

Here was our camping setup:
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs257.snc1/10427_1052909741364_1784404091_106651_5696705_n.jp g



Very nice setup !

How long become sleeping platform with extension ?
I want to know if it will be comfortable enough for me. About 70 inch tall.

[squatch]

i like your rig! can you give some details on how you ran your wires . would like lights up high but unsure on how to run the wiring harness.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

I want to know if it will be comfortable enough for me. About 70 inch tall.

With the platform extension the sleeping area is 75", this is measured from a closed back door. This is about as long as I can go with the front seats all the way back. I also had to remove the rear seats to be able to do this as platform is not taller than the back of the seat when folded forward. I am 6'6" tall and end up moving the passenger seat forward in order to sleep. I stuff a couple of bags behind the seat to provide an area for my head.



i like your rig! can you give some details on how you ran your wires . would like lights up high but unsure on how to run the wiring harness.

I ended up modifying my IPF harness in order to lengthen the wire to reach the roof. Here is how I ran my wires:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/S9Hxb558UhI/AAAAAAAAAQE/HMZ2XfKfYRg/s640/DSCF0427.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/S9HxVEZGnjI/AAAAAAAAAP4/gEm_sxBQ0DU/s640/DSCF0424.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/S9HxXGGsGNI/AAAAAAAAAP8/eTy7JQ3somA/s640/DSCF0425.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/S9HxZHnGTDI/AAAAAAAAAQA/rNrMliwnYnc/s640/DSCF0426.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/S9H2d1MJv3I/AAAAAAAAARM/DW7pUQeiVOE/s640/DSCF6625.JPG

Hope that helps!

[squatch]

thanks that helps a ton.

[Vency]

Thanks Fly !

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

thanks that helps a ton.

Thanks Fly !

Glad I can help. Thanks for the complements!

[DangT-100]

went to a wedding in Stanley...did some fishin. Great area

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

went to a wedding in Stanley...did some fishin. Great area

Just one of many great places to visit here in Idaho. Spent a lot of time there growing up. Haven't been back for several year though.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

But not for long! :wings:

Today I ordered:
OME Nitrocharger struts
OME 882 coils
ToyTec Differential Drop
OEM Land Cruiser shocks
All to go with the pair of ‘96 LX450 coils a buddy of mine picked up for me.

I should start seeing parts the end of this week. If everything goes well, by the end of next weekend I should be sitting at an acceptable height!

Thanks to Kurt at Cruiser Outfitters for answering all of my questions!

I will still need to pick up the extended break lines and fab. up the brackets for the E-Brake, bump stops, and Panhard bar.

[digitalferg]

But not for long! :wings:

Today I ordered:
OME Nitrocharger struts
OME 882 coils
ToyTec Differential Drop
OEM Land Cruiser shocks
All to go with the pair of ‘96 LX450 coils a buddy of mine picked up for me.

I should start seeing parts the end of this week. If everything goes well, by the end of next weekend I should be sitting at an acceptable height!

Thanks to Kurt at Cruiser Outfitters for answering all of my questions!

I will still need to pick up the extended break lines and fab. up the brackets for the E-Brake, bump stops, and Panhard bar.


Sweet!

Though I hope you're not planning to run much weight in the rear.... I ran LX450 coils and OEM LC Tokico shocks for a year in the rear of my rig and as soon as I added any sort of weight to it, i was bouncing and swaying all over the place. It was a terrible combo with the weight. (Though its possible that the actual spring rate of your coils wil be different than what mine were.)

I am now OME shocks all around with Tundra coils up front and LC80 coils (~180 lbf/in and ~19.25" free height) out back.

-Ferg-

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Thanks for the information Ben. I have actually followed your build, and figured our setups were different enough that I would probably like the LX coils over the LC80's. If I remember correctly, you had trouble with them and the weight of your rear bumper/RTT/Sliders. I do not have much in the rear, just the drawers/sleeping platform and roof basket. I tend to travel fairly light when we are out. If I don't like the setup, I will just run down to the local parts yard and pull the fronts off of the LC80 that is down there. We will see how it goes.

[digitalferg]

Cool. Sounds like you're well prepared. :ylsmoke:

-Ferg-

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

I now have both pairs of coils!:wings:

Thanks to Kurt at Cruiser Outfitters, he shipped out the 882's the next day.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/S-Nhe4VSdBI/AAAAAAAAAWY/Od4TJo506ZY/s640/DSCF0525.JPG

I purchased the rest from a member of yotatech.com and they should be here early next week!

We will see if I can last until the end of next week before everything is installed.:elkgrin:

[cruiseroutfit]

I now have both pairs of coils!:wings:

Thanks to Kurt at Cruiser Outfitters, he shipped out the 882's the next day.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/S-Nhe4VSdBI/AAAAAAAAAWY/Od4TJo506ZY/s640/DSCF0525.JPG

I purchased the rest from a member of yotatech.com and they should be here early next week!

We will see if I can last until the end of next week before everything is installed.:elkgrin:

Glad to hear they arrived promptly, the UPS driver just about forgot to grab that box too, guess he is used to brown cardboard only. :D

Post some pics when you get it all installed.

Also, I can see a couple of the color bands on your coils. Can you verify your colors and then measure the diameter (of the actual coil material) and the free height (measure just as they are sitting from the flat to the point of the last wrap). I would love to add those to our coil database if we don't have it already. Thanks to bfergs fine work our coil database has over 50 different sets in it right now! :cool:

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Kurt, here is the information you wanted:
Coil Diameter:14.50mm
Color Code Blue/Yellow/White: 20.25" tall
Color Code Green/Yellow/White: 19.5" tall
***Edit: They came off of a 1996 LX 450

I was hoping to get this installed today, but I am stuck at work. Perhaps Saturday afternoon.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well I started the installation of my lift over the weekend. I had to work a bunch of overtime, so I was not able to get everything finished up. Here are the progress pictures.










I had just finished the rear end and set in the ground when my wife came into the garage and said, “It looks like a stink bug.” The LX450 coils may prove to be too tall for my needs. I will drive it around for a while to see how well it works out. I don’t imagine the settling all that much.

http://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/arizona/Images/Rorabaugh/06-12-2000/Pinacate%20beetle_N.jpg

The LX450 coils and new shocks are installed on the rear.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs347.ash1/29528_1195839554520_1784404091_357894_3345642_n.jp g
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs358.snc3/29528_1195839674523_1784404091_357895_3199043_n.jp g

I had to drill out the washers for the new LC shocks, but that was not too bad.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs338.snc3/29528_1195838594496_1784404091_357893_401888_n.jpg

Here you can see the difference between the old factory 4Runner rear coils and the coils from the ’96 LX450.
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs358.snc3/29528_1195838434492_1784404091_357891_7642110_n.jp g

The Toytec Differential Drop was easy to install. It appears the skid plate spacers that came with the kit are not tall enough. I decided to leave the skid plate off for a while to figure it out.

The factory front coils proved to be too much. I ended up breaking two sets of Harbor Freight strut coil compressors trying to change out the front. I am going to take the struts down to a shop to have them assemble them.

I hope to have everything put back together tomorrow night.

As I was working on the rear end I noticed my transfer case was leaking fluid from the rear output shaft area. Looks like I will be spending some time this week figuring out where it is leaking from. Dang.

[cruiseroutfit]

Kurt, here is the information you wanted:
Coil Diameter:14.50mm
Color Code Blue/Yellow/White: 20.25" tall
Color Code Green/Yellow/White: 19.5" tall
***Edit: They came off of a 1996 LX 450

I was hoping to get this installed today, but I am stuck at work. Perhaps Saturday afternoon.

Awesome, while this doesn't help your stink-bug, it helps our database by showing realistic, redundant results :cool:

Here is what I had for those:

LX450 fr bl/yel/wh 0.560 5.190 5.750 8.750 20.250 113.059 lbs/in
LX450 fr grn/yel/wh 0.550 5.200 5.750 8.250 19.500 110.930 lbs/in

For the most part those are the 'lowest' 80/LX450 springs.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well everything leveled out nicely! After I had the tire shop assemble the struts, it was a cake-walk finishing everything up. The idea of using a bottle jack to force down the upper control arm was a great move. I assembled the front end myself in a matter of 20 minutes! I will get some measurements on the new setup tomorrow, but for now here are some pictures. Sorry for the quality, it was late when I got back into town.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs542.ash1/31728_1199115236410_1784404091_363001_2838035_n.jp g

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs347.ash1/29528_1197814083882_1784404091_360904_3310857_n.jp g

I had the alignment done this afternoon, and I must say it drove smooth on the interstate on my way home.

Ben, I can definitely see where the LX coils would have been too soft for you. I think this setup will serve my needs well, at least until I start adding heavier accessories to the back.

I still need to finish the following items:
Fab new sway bar end links
Fab E-break guide bracket
Re-install skid plate
Install longer rear break hose

[digitalferg]

Looks great! Glad to hear it is working out for ya too!.

-Ferg-

[CYi5]

right on, time for some new shoes

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well here are the final lift numbers after 'settling' for a couple of weeks. Sorry for the delayed response...Working overtime on some projects...:violent-smiley-031:...Sometimes I feel like Sisyphus...

Anyway

Front: Lifted 2-3/4" Sitting at 23" from center of wheel to bottom of fender.
Before:
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs552.snc3/30228_1213109466257_1784404091_390940_6590469_n.jp g

After:
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs552.snc3/30228_1213110346279_1784404091_390943_6980508_n.jp g

Rear: Lifted 3-1/4" Sitting at 24" from center of wheel to bottom of fender.
Before:
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs532.snc3/30228_1213109546259_1784404091_390941_4136775_n.jp g

After:
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs512.ash1/30228_1213110266277_1784404091_390942_5132391_n.jp g

We went out last weekend for a drive in the hills, and so far I am liking how it is handling. I have noticed the rear wants to shimmy all over the place when reloading after nearly being air-born. The front handled the speed fine, but the rear had issues. It is a huge difference on wash-board roads, granted nearly everything is smooth at 60mph. I feel like I am driving a trophy truck when I am accelerating going around corners in town! We will see how it handles being loaded down for our next trip.

Now I just need to source some black steelies so I can lust after it some more! :drool:

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Here are some pictures from this weekend:

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TIW0dTXQClI/AAAAAAAABDQ/kqId4ToSV8A/s800/DSCF2593.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TIj_PxkTgAI/AAAAAAAABWs/wSj6oenNe-Y/s800/DSCF2602.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TIukuIZleAI/AAAAAAAABXo/PTXdEbsJV-U/s800/DSCF2654.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TIW3FgzXOII/AAAAAAAABGY/c1I6UdvrZKI/s800/DSCF2649.JPG

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well I finally got around to finishing a couple of loose ends I was procrastinating on.

First was the rear brake hose. I went down to my local CarQuest store to pick up a longer rear brake hose. After about 30 minutes of cross referencing hoses, I finally found one that would work. IIRC, the length is 19".

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKs_rCHvZ3I/AAAAAAAABvw/HElOv24wQew/s800/DSCF2711.JPG

Old and new hoses:
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKs_i6kUZAI/AAAAAAAABvs/XyhhUdUHpxk/s800/DSCF2710.JPG

I love these 'caulk-gun condoms' they work great for preventing brake fluid from dripping everywhere.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKs_zm8PR4I/AAAAAAAABv0/mRqc2yoezKU/s800/DSCF2714.JPG

Next, I set out to eliminate the dust that always entered the cab through the vent behind the bumper. I had figure the vent had been damaged, but what I didn't realize was the vent cover was missing and everything was open to the outside.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKs_6T5VWvI/AAAAAAAABv4/hMh-4APnx6E/s800/DSCF2732.JPG

So I ran down to the home improvement store to pick up some filter material.
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKtACcgeIfI/AAAAAAAABwk/kySvtXVpuIY/s800/DSCF2737.JPG

I placed the finer filters on the inside
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKtAMlaJJjI/AAAAAAAABwA/pGH_4NfQ7EI/s800/DSCF2738.JPG

and placed the coarser on the outside. This took 3 layers of the blue filter material.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKtAqh74IlI/AAAAAAAABwQ/MjfMpGyt9MA/s800/DSC_0038.JPG

I tested the filter out during a 100 mile run through the desert and the cab didn't fill with dust!

Finally I got around to remounting the shovel and Hi-Lift to the basket. I used 1" grounding clamps for the shovel and some spare Thule bike tray mounts for the Hi-Lift.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKtAa6LMyFI/AAAAAAAABwI/kweRsJtE_F0/s800/DSC_0034.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKtAiZvPzeI/AAAAAAAABwM/sEyTgXO98ao/s800/DSC_0036.JPG

[Vermejo]

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKtAqh74IlI/AAAAAAAABwQ/MjfMpGyt9MA/s800/DSC_0038.JPG

This is a fantastic idea.

Great work!

[97kurt]

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKtAqh74IlI/AAAAAAAABwQ/MjfMpGyt9MA/s800/DSC_0038.JPG



OMG... brilliant!!

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Thanks guys! I had a little help on the idea from Brant (Mr.TRD) when I stopped by the dealership he works at and we started looking at the prices for OE parts. The nice thing is the bumper covers it up. I am toying around with the idea of building a tube rear bumper. So when that day comes, I may have to figure out a way to hide the blue filter.

[CYi5]

you can also daisy chain two stock rear brake hoses together, fyi.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

you can also daisy chain two stock rear brake hoses together, fyi.

The CarQuest guy tried talking me into that, but I feared multiple points of failure/leaking so I opted for the one-piece route. I figured if I was buying one, I might as well only have one.

[Epcofabrication]

The CarQuest guy tried talking me into that, but I feared multiple points of failure/leaking so I opted for the one-piece route. I figured if I was buying one, I might as well only have one.

One is always a good idea. :-)

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

It has been a while since I have done any work to the 4Runner.

I have been updating portions of my electrical system over the past two weeks. I replaced the factory battery terminals with new epoxy coated marine types because they were not making a good connection.

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=638&pictureid=3080
For a battery that looks like a POS and is 6 years old, it is still going strong.

In doing this, I decided to rework some of my previous electrical installations including the IPF lights, reverse light, and HAM radio.

I decided to pick up a Bussmann 6 position fuse block to power my aux light switches, two new full-time 12V plugs, and possibly my HAM.

I mounted a 50amp breaker in the engine bay and routed AWG 6 wire through the firewall to supply power to the fuse block. I used Blue Sea's Calculator (http://beta.circuitwizard.bluesea.com/) to determine wire size. The pictures I took last night did not turn out, so I will have to update this later. I am also thinking about replacing the 2-conductor wire, that came with my IPF lights to engage the relay, with a 4-conductor wire to run multiple relays.

So right now I have the +/- being run to the HAM, + running to the fuse block, and a 2-conductor running back to the IPF relay.

I have three spare fuse positions in the factory block in the engine bay, so I am contemplating powering my IPF lights off of one and a second set of forward facing lights. This will be a little more involved, but I think it can be done. I had the block pulled out last year when I was first thinking about adding a relay to shut off the ABS system.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

50A breaker
http://expeditionportal.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=638&pictureid=3287

New wires run
http://expeditionportal.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=638&pictureid=3290

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=638&pictureid=3289

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Life has been busy the last several months and I was finally able to spend some time on the 4Runner this weekend. I was not able to complete the wiring to the new fuse block until now. I also decided to cleanup some of my previous work.

New fuse block mounted behind the driver-side kick panel. The yellow wire is the power to my switches and the red wire is the power to the rear light.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_01hTZvejNog/TcdgvfPYG2I/AAAAAAAAC6c/rw0UH1Xf7WE/s640/DSC_2911.jpg

I spent the time to bundle all of the wires together to clean everything up.
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_01hTZvejNog/TcdgxEwGD6I/AAAAAAAAC6g/VDigDbnZsTg/s640/DSC_2914.JPG

I mounted the IPF relay and re-ran the wires.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_01hTZvejNog/Tcdg1d8Uq5I/AAAAAAAAC6s/_NsGMqLamDA/s640/DSC_2920.jpg

I tied both the new lead to the fuse block and power to the 2m directly to the same new new terminal end and allowed access to the 2m fuse.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_01hTZvejNog/Tcdg4jOFZmI/AAAAAAAAC60/0ydX48dsUIo/s640/DSC_2926.jpg

Now I just need to modify the factory fuse block to utilize the three unused fuse locations. My plan is to head to the parts yard and pull the required pieces. Two of the fuse locations will operate off road lights and one (not sure if this will work) will run power to the trailer wiring harness.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_01hTZvejNog/TKtAqh74IlI/AAAAAAAABwQ/MjfMpGyt9MA/s800/DSC_0038.JPG

As an update, I also replaced the factory 3 to 2 trailer light wiring adapter and inspected the filter media. It was in great condition and only the outer layer of blue was dusty! :victory: I removed the interior panels and cleaned them up. I think I removed 10lb of dust from the back. :Wow1:

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Getting ready to pull the trigger on a set of Trail Gear sliders for the 4Runner. My plan is to install them similar to Slee's slider steps by adding a piece of plate across the top.

I am going with the 67" slider with the gusset package.

Here is my inspiration for the design: Slee's slider step for the 80 series
http://www.sleeoffroad.com/products/images/80_series_sliders/slider_step_550_1.jpg

[sseaman]

I am also looking at TG's sliders. The shipping shoots the price up a bit so I may see if I can get them fabbed locally first.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

I am also looking at TG's sliders. The shipping shoots the price up a bit so I may see if I can get them fabbed locally first.

Even with shipping and the gusset/plate kit it will be ~$210. Not too bad for DOM sliders.

[xkid]

Even with shipping and the gusset/plate kit it will be ~$210. Not too bad for DOM sliders.

Actually pretty cheap.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

:peepwall:

An email from FedEx:
Ship Manager of TREADWRIGHT sent Beau Johnston of --- 4 FedEx Home Delivery package(s).

New tires next week.

Also replaced both CV axles with new ones from NAPA.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

We are pleased to announce TreadWright as our latest sponsor.

We picked up a set of 265/75R16 Guard Dog Tires for the 4Runner.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cysNAnMRR64/TkCV0r24PnI/AAAAAAAADtg/oRUYDKZkzEA/s800/DSC_5320.JPG

Tire Specifications:

Tread Depth: 19/32”
Meas. Rim Width: 7.5”
Tread Width: 8.75”
Rim Width Range: 7-8”
Max Load: 3,042 lbs (Load Range D)
Outer Diameter: 32.2”
Max PSI: 65 psi
Section Width: 10.5”


Compared to my old Cooper Discoverer S/T in the same size


Tread Depth: 18/32”
Meas. Rim Width: 7.5”
Tread Width: 8.1”
Rim Width Range: 7-8”
Max Load: 2470 lbs (Load Range C)
Outer Diameter: 31.64”
Max PSI: ?
Section Width: 10.5”


We ran down to Salt Lake over the weekend and traveled a maximum of 80mph without any issues. The tires balanced very easily, and I didn't notice any vibrations at the speeds we traveled at.

There is a noticeable hum at most speeds, but it is mostly drowned out with the stereo. (listening to NPR as we drove)

The tires took us to the top of Skyline Drive, above Bountiful, UT, and they performed well.

I did notice the difference in tire diameter and I am glad I didn't go with the 285s. There is a noticeable difference in rear-wheel torque and the speedometer read ~78mph when we were doing 80 according to the our Nuvi. Our old Coopers were nearly dead-on at 80mph.

[sseaman]

The tires look good.

[john101477]

cant go wrong with the 4runner. Mine is almost where i want it but on the way out here I started leaking ATF... I am sure it is a seal in the front of the trans but i have yet to try to dig into a transmission so... still a great rig though.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Well, I never got around to ordering sliders but we are getting some new vinyl decals for the back windows.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/300378_148033208628109_144421515655945_212955_1182 450417_n.jpg
Should have them in a couple of days.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Got the new Living Overland decals on!
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s320x320/303869_149119761852787_144421515655945_215933_3929 74949_n.jpg

In preparation for our trip to the Four-Corners area, I picked up this 800watt inverter.
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41LXjdnESJL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

My plan is to mount it to the driver's side of the drawer system where it can be accessed from the back. I am not sure how I want to route the positive lead from the battery. Is it best to run through the firewall or down the frame and then up into the back of the vehicle?

I was thinking about feeding the wire through the back. There is a small rubber drain plug in the back, just forward of the rear vent. I was thinking about running it up through that location with a new grommet. Any thoughts?
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-AH4cPXjiyAc/TKtAqh74IlI/AAAAAAAABwQ/c0bk9adxX50/s800/DSC_0038.JPG

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

I was up late last night getting things ready for our Four Corners trip and was able to mount the inverter and wire everything up.
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VGtP18PWQhc/Tqfz7xixStI/AAAAAAAAEH0/_TwozDBGasA/s800/DSCF2943.JPG

I ran the + wire (4AWG) and the - wire (6AWG) through a new grommet/hole in the side of the interior body panel. I terminated the - wire to the body near where the trailer light module is located.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mKURPwGoJoI/Tqfz8CE3E3I/AAAAAAAAEH4/e_1zKDbdzG4/s800/DSCF2944.JPG

I then ran the + wire through a new grommet in the drain hole in the rear quarter panel, over to the frame, through the frame, and up into the engine bay.
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gzgaNGoN89U/Tqfz7Kq8_4I/AAAAAAAAEHw/mlmfesFMdOw/s800/DSCF2942.JPG

I have the wire protected with a 100amp breaker located, for now, next to the factory fuse box. I also ran a new ground strap (4AWG) from the body to the battery.

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Here is a preview to this week's blog post.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/403059_200581813373248_144421515655945_352237_1242 525708_n.jpg

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Reinforcing the Roof of our '98 4Runner

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-70XFHIAmOMQ/TrnyY4yjFNI/AAAAAAAAEPY/6zy94hctkTI/s800/DSC_8033.jpg

With the additional weight of our roof basket and the camping gear we carry in it, we began to notice some weakness in the roof. The roof didn't seem to be able to support a load in the front third of the factory load-bar track. Applying weight caused the track and roof to deflect downward, and the rack's inertia would cause the roof to vibrate while driving over rough terrain. During our recent trip to the Four-Corners area the vibrations went from occasion vibrations to non-stop vibrations even when we were driving on smooth roads and the interstate. It had become severe enough that it was time to investigate and see if I could stiffen things up.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hQ4ysV16g-E/TyjAFn3_7RI/AAAAAAAAE4w/ZIfoxRnFE2k/s800/2012-01-28_13-19-05_770.jpg

What We Found:
To gain access to the roof I began by removing the headliner from the 4Runner. This required pulling all the interior plastic side panels out; from the rear all the way to the front A-pillar. This process is fairly straight forward and can be accomplished in very little time. Once the panels were removed, I began removing the grab-handles, dome lights, rear-view mirror, sun visors, and the four plastic push fasteners holding the headliner in place.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ie6MXSJae_M/TyjAFwVYuVI/AAAAAAAAE40/8ODGsTQhtSU/s800/2012-01-28_14-14-18_256.jpg

With the headliner removed, the structure supporting the weight of the load-bar track became visible. Each track is supported by a stamped sheet metal channel which runs directly below and sandwiches the roof between the two. Two braces run between the load-bar track supports to add overall rigidity to the roof structure. To allow room for the sunroof to be retracted, the front one-third of the roof is left unbraced. I believe this lack of bracing is the cause of our vibration issues.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-COhW_0bJzdQ/TyjAGZeqLqI/AAAAAAAAE44/iPDLrSd2-5w/s800/2012-01-28_14-14-45_607.jpg

You can read about the rest of our project on our blog by clicking here (http://www.livingoverland.com/2012/02/reinforcing-roof.html).

[WU7X]

Beau,

great writeup! I have also bookmarked your blog.

How much weight are you carrying on your roof? I'm interested because I plan on mounting my Columbus Rooftop tent to the OEM rails via either a Thule or Yakima setup. I used to carry this RTT on a reinforced Raven topper on my 2000 Taco with no problems. With bedding, ladder, etc. the RTT weighs in around 125 lbs. Is that weight greater than what you are carrying?

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

How much weight are you carrying on your roof? I'm interested because I plan on mounting my Columbus Rooftop tent to the OEM rails via either a Thule or Yakima setup. I used to carry this RTT on a reinforced Raven topper on my 2000 Taco with no problems. With bedding, ladder, etc. the RTT weighs in around 125 lbs. Is that weight greater than what you are carrying?

Great questions! We carry as much as 100lbs of gear (two 25L fuel cans, camp chairs, Hi Lift, and other gear) and the basket weights about 50lbs. The thing I would be worried about is the weight of the people in the tent. I have stood on the rack and while the rear easily supported my weight, the front does not. I would suggest using three load bars for your RTT to support the weight of occupants.

Thanks for following the blog!

[WU7X]

Beau,

Thanks for the suggestion. That is exactly what I did with the old setup, so no problem doing it again with this one. I'll let you know how this all works out.

Dale


Great questions! We carry as much as 100lbs of gear (two 25L fuel cans, camp chairs, Hi Lift, and other gear) and the basket weights about 50lbs. The thing I would be worried about is the weight of the people in the tent. I have stood on the rack and while the rear easily supported my weight, the front does not. I would suggest using three load bars for your RTT to support the weight of occupants.

Thanks for following the blog!

[FLYFISHEXPERT]

Glad I could help!