shawkins 1997 4Runner Build: Poor, Starving College Student Edition

[shawkins]

I figured since I have started making some modifications to my '97 4Runner it was time for it to have it's own thread!

Introducing the Periwinkle Mobile! (named by my mom and sister)

First day with it:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_1893.jpg

On the way home from Central Oregon, I saw my 4Runners twin in Sisters, Oregon:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2635.jpg

Naturally, the first modification I made to the 4Runner was installing "expeditionportal.com" decals. They are currently the only decals on my 4Runner, as I don't like to sticker up my vehicles. But I love this forum and am proud to sport these!

Second on the list was a new headunit with iPod capabilities. I already had an Alpine CDA-9887 from another car, so it found its way into the dash.

I love Alpines iPod interface as I also have a CDA-9885 in my '91 4Runner. I wouldn't reccomend the 9887 over the 9885 or any other of Alpines models due to the fact that you need an extra software kit and to plug in your laptop to the unit to adjust the trebel, bass, mid. The 9887 is definitley a headunit for audiophiles with lots of fine tuning features and I only picked it up because I got it for a killer deal. I love the 9887 because of all the extra bells and whistles but for most people they are overkill.

During the install of the new headunit, I was digging for parts in the garage and ran across my old front and rear set of Huskey Liners from my totalled '98 4Runner. Although they are tan and this 4Runner has the blue/gray interior they do a great job of keeping the dirt, mud, snow or whatever is on my shoes/boots off of my nice clean carpet.

Next, I found myself wanting better sounding speakers. So I ditched the stock front speakers for 6.5" Morel Dotech Ovation components. I'm currently just running these of the internal amp in the 9887 but they sound way better than the stock components.

After awhile, I started to notice that the paint on the mirrors had fadded differently that the rest of the vehicle, my guess would be since they are plastic. I thought that the base model 4Runner black mirrors would look good, so I purchased plain, non-power, non-painted black mirrors from Toyota and swapped my power guts into them. As far as I know, I now have the only power, non-painted black mirrors in exisistence!:D

I drove the 4Runner like this for a month or so until one day when I was returning a bunch of parts to Toyota from a past project. I ended up with enough of a credit to get a pair of '02 tail lights. I think the '02 tails give the 4runner a newer look.

I do alot of night driving, so vehicle lighting is somewhat of a special interest of mine. This 4Runner came with the stock Hella foglights which use a H3 bulb. I wanted a yellow-ish light from the fog lights due to the fact I also drive in alot of fog. I decided to try PIAA's Ion Crystal bulbs, and while incredibly over-priced ($60 for a pair) they work a little better than I expected. They are somewhat brighter than the stock bulbs that were in the hella fogs, and produce a nice yellow light. The fog lights still have poor performance, but I place that blame on the Hella reflectors since the chrome is not very shiney anymore and is starting to chip off.

Somewhere along the modification timeline, I removed my runningboards - which were dented quite nicely (I guess they don't make very good sliders), in preparation for my next addition to the 4Runner.

Now comes the good stuff.:victory:

When I bought the 4Runner the tires were almost shot, with just enough tread to last me through the rest of summer. Come fall, it started raining (I live in Oregon) and we all know how safe bald tires are in the rain so to my rescue came...255/85R16 BFG MT KM2's!

Pictures from just after they were installed:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2645.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2641.jpg

I knew from my previous '98 4Runner that I could fit a 255/85R16 tire on without a lift. All that had to be done in the front was remove the running boards, pound the pinch weld and reshape the inner fender liner. The rear was even easier since I only had to trim part of the fender flare.

First inpressions of the tires were good. I noticed more road noise from 25-45 MPH, but no noticeable increase (to me atleast) at 55-up.

I now have over 3K miles on these tires, using them in all sorts of terrain: lots of pavement, dirt roads, gravel roads, rocks, 2-3" of snow covered pavement, 2-5" of snow covered dirt and gravel roads and some mud. I love these tires! They are by far my favorite. My dad was quite impressed by them too when we were elk hunting this year and will be putting them on our '91 4Runner.

Although the tires fit fine with no lift, I knew I wanted a little more height for more clearence and for looks. So one evening I installed 1" Daystar strut top spacers and '99 4Runner rear springs.

I am happy with the Daystar spacers since they do what they are supposed to do: lift the front 1". Now the '99 coils I was expecting a little more height out of. I suspect they are actually '98 coils and not '99. I know that '96-'97 4Runners sat the second lowest of all years of 3rd gens with '00-'02 being the lowest. '98 coils were slightly taller than '96-'97 and '99 coils being 1" taller than '98 coils.

So needless to say, I am still searching for a different option for the rear. What slightly complicates the situation is the varying ammounts of weight I carry in the cargo area. It varies from empty to around 500lbs and stock springs regardless of which year just dont handle that task very well. I am currently looking at a pair of OME 890 coils.

That sums up all of the modifications I have completed so far on the 4Runner. I have a few parts(ok, a small pile in my bedroom) that are slowly finding their way to the vehicle so check back for updates!

Thanks,
Stephen

[1leglance]

nice build and I like that you are taking it slowly and using the truck to figure out just what you need vs what you want.

Keep us posted

[Tacomedic]

What? no lifted pics? c'mon

[shawkins]

nice build and I like that you are taking it slowly and using the truck to figure out just what you need vs what you want.

Keep us posted
Thanks for the kind words!


What? no lifted pics? c'mon
Hold your horses, they're coming!

[shawkins]

Here are some pictures from 2 weekends ago in Central Oregon. It was the first time I got to really test the lift and tires in lots of different terrain.

Flex shots:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2701.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2696.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2698.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2702.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2704.jpg

Scenic shots:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2706.jpg
My current desktop background:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2712.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2707.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_2718.jpg

What do you guys think?

Thanks,
Stephen

[TacoTraveler]

Man, that is nice. I like the rig and I love the scenery. I've never actually seen snow in person...

[Rallyroo]

Man, that is nice. I like the rig and I love the scenery. I've never actually seen snow in person...

You need to go on a trip to somewhere with snow then.

[mountainpete]

Man, that is nice. I like the rig and I love the scenery. I've never actually seen snow in person...

Really? I guess I've never been through a hurricane...

[CYi5]

I never thought i'd buy a BFG tire, but those KM2's look awesome! You're gonna love 255/85's, great size.

[red87]

I've never seen a 4Runner in that color. I like it and it looks pretty sweet with the 255s

[shawkins]

I just picked up a pair of brand new OME 890 coils for $100. So I will be giving those a try instead of my '98 or '99 stock coils.

Next I need to order a Sonoran Steel adjustable panhard bar and E-brake cable relocation bracket to be installed with the 890 coils.

I'll post pics when I get the 890's installed here in probably two weeks.

My stock rear shocks are currently on their way out. I've been trying to decide what to replace them with and right now I'm looking hard at a set of 10" or 12" travel remote reservoir King's. What do you guys think of that idea or would you recommend a different shock?

Thanks

[datrupr]

Looks very good. Nice slow progress. In my search for my new adventure rig, the 3rd gen 4-runners are now at the top of my list. Keep us posted on the progress.

[sami]

Looks great!

[tibaal89]

Very nice... I think that a slooow vehicle build is the way to go. You'll better understand its capabilities and shortcomings and more judiciously mod it to suit your needs. People who purchase a vehicle and immediately mod the crap out of it are missing something, IMO. Good luck!

[shawkins]

Well I have a small update: I ordered a Currie Johnny Joint ball to see if it is the correct size for the custom lower links I'm going to build.

They say it is the correct size for a FJC so I think it is the correct size for my application too. I guess we will find out when it gets here!

Link to the ball I ordered:
http://www.currieenterprises.com/cestore/product.aspx?id=3054

I'm also still trying to figure out which length of travel shocks I want to run in the rear: 10" or 12"? The 10" ones will be much easier to fit, but I can't help but wonder if the 12" will be worth the extra trouble? I guess the 10" ones would be quite an improvement over the stock 8" travel shocks.

[wmflyfisher]

Looks great man!! Give us a little review on the Morel components. I'm looking for a set for my 02. How was the install? Any problems with fitment or anything??

[shawkins]

Looks great man!! Give us a little review on the Morel components. I'm looking for a set for my 02. How was the install? Any problems with fitment or anything??
I love the Morels! A huge improvement over stock (I would be ticked if there wasn't since they cost so much). At first I thought the tweeters were a tad harsh, but not anymore. Maybe I just got used to them or they broke in (I have heard speakers do have a break in period). The woofers are great, lots more bass than stock but they aren't obnoxious.

The install was fairly easy, just remove and replace. Oh and some wiring.

I would recommend adding sound deadening to the door skins and door panels though, with the better woofers you can get some vibration on the really low notes. Its on my list of things to do (its a very long and distinguished list), but I havent gotten around to it yet.

I have a set for the rear, but I have yet to install them because you have to make a custom mounting plate for if you want to run 5.25". The stock rear speakers are some weird size that no company makes replacements for.

When I install the rears, I plan to run all new wire directly to the head-unit, bypassing all the factory wiring. The factory wiring is tiny, I think its 18 or 20ga.!

[wmflyfisher]

Thanks man! Yeah, I've been into stereo stuff for years now. I picked up a set of Pioneer Premier components. A ton of REALLY good reviews on them all over the net. Trying to find an amp for them too. Do you have the crossovers run to your components or is your system active?? I'm debating on this issue...

[shawkins]

Thanks man! Yeah, I've been into stereo stuff for years now. I picked up a set of Pioneer Premier components. A ton of REALLY good reviews on them all over the net. Trying to find an amp for them too. Do you have the crossovers run to your components or is your system active?? I'm debating on this issue...
I'm running passive, I wish I had the money to go active!

[weezerbot]

Great build so far, I'm keeping my eye on this and using it as inspiration for my new runner!

[shawkins]

Great news! The Johnny Joint ball arrived today and it is a perfect fit for the lower link mounts! However, it will not fit the upper link mounts as they are narrower. I never planned on running JJ's on the uppers anyways though.

Now I just need to figure out what heims I want for the upper links and panhard.

[shawkins]

Progress has been slow on the build-up due to not having a lot of time to work on the rig, and being continuously sick for the past few months, but I have been collecting parts! I'm hoping to do some installs during spring break.

So far I have collected:
- Chromoly tubing for lower links
- The rest of the Johnny Joint parts
- Poly front sway bar bushings and bump stops from Wheelers
- Poly steering rack bushings

Now I just need to have the links TIG welded together, heat treated and powder coated.

Next comes the collection of parts for the upper links and panhard. Dang, heims are expensive!

The shocks on the rig are pretty much done for, so I'm trying to decide on what to replace them with. I may be able to get Fox Shox at a hefty discount so I'm leaning towards their remote reservoir coil overs. I just can't seem to find anyone who has them on a '96 to '04 Taco or '96 to '02 4Runner to get some feedback. They do seem popular with the '05 and newer Taco guys though.

Before I found out that Fox makes coilovers for my year of rig, I was planning on going with Kings, so they are my fall back if the Foxs don't work out.

I also can't decide if I want the regular travel or the extended travel coil overs. If I went with the extended ones, I would run the Total Chaos upper arms...which cost an arm and a leg. It's only money right?:rolleyes: Do the replacement upper arms make a nice difference or should I just stick with regular travel?

Any help in deciding is greatly appriciated!

Thanks!

[shawkins]

I have amassed a pile 'o parts!

- Fox extended length C/O's
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_3059.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_3060.jpg

- ARB locker for the front
- OME 890 rear springs
- Poly steering rack/sway bar bushings
- Chromoly Johnny Joints & Chromoly tubing
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_3069.jpg

- E-locker axle housing
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_3079.jpg

- Stubbs HD-SKO sliders
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_3082.jpg

Along with a 4.30 E-locker and 4.30 front diff.

Two things are holding me up from installing most of those goodies. First is I still need to order Total chaos UCA's and second is this:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1991%204Runner/IMG_3075.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1991%204Runner/IMG_3078.jpg

I'm hoping to have it back together enough to roll it out of the garage this weekend so I can swap in the E-locked rear axle on the periwinkle mobile.

[edwardsmr2002]

Just to verify, so I know I'm not crazy, you have 255/85/16 tires on when you were at stock height?

[CYi5]

Just to verify, so I know I'm not crazy, you have 255/85/16 tires on when you were at stock height?

He had daystar 1" spacers and '99 springs. Even then i'm sure there was a bit of rubbage.

[shawkins]

Just to verify, so I know I'm not crazy, you have 255/85/16 tires on when you were at stock height?
Pretty much.


He had daystar 1" spacers and '99 springs. Even then i'm sure there was a bit of rubbage.
The only rubbage is on the frame at full lock and at the back of the rear wheel wells.

[RU55ELL]

Great project. I'm looking at picking a 3rd gen up soon, so I'll keep checking up on this one. :coffee:

[edwardsmr2002]

:ylsmoke:Any updates?:coffee:

[shawkins]

Very soon!:wings:

[shawkins]

It got too dark for pics, so I'll get some today.

In about 9 hours I accomplished:
New rear axle with 4.30 geared E-locker is in.
OME 890 coils with N86 shocks are in.
Fox coilovers are in!

I took it for a test drive when I got finished at 4AM and I can't believe the difference! The 4.30's made a very noticeable difference and the Fox coilovers are amazing. I'm not too happy with the N86 shocks but they are a temporary solution until I get another set of Fox's for the rear.

Time for a shower and a nap!

[shawkins]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_3310.jpg

[shawkins]

I continue to be amazed at how well these Fox's ride!:victory:

Night before last, I installed my poly steering rack bushings and poly front sway-bar bushings. The steering rack bushings made a big difference, steering feel and response is greatly improved. I couldn't tell much of a difference from the sway-bar bushings though.

The 4Runner feels like a completely different rig now, I love it! The past few days, I have been driving around with a huge smile on my face!:smiley_drive:

[shawkins]

Looking at the picture above, you can see that pretty much everything is covered in grease...thanks to blown CV boots.

To fix that issue, I will be installing these:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_3314.jpg

I have all of the parts for the conversion, but not the fancy Toyota SST ($60 4-pin socket). I called to order it and it wasn't available until July 5th! So I'm just going to take my junkyard knuckles to the dealer and have them take off the huge brass nut. I have access to a press so getting the spindles out of the junkyard knuckles and into my knuckles shouldn't be too hard. I'm hoping to get this done this week (fingers crossed).

[shawkins]

Got the manual hubs on about a week ago. I am currently only 2WD with a rear E-locker though as I removed the front diff to install my ARB locker. My gas mileage has gone back up considerably, I think my old front CV's were pretty bad since they both had torn boots.

I took it out for a test run on the new suspension last weekend. The only thing I don't like are the OME shocks which I have nicknamed the "bucksnort" shocks. I also broke a front sway-bar endlink so I am deciding if I'm going to replace it or just remove the bar altogether.

Heres a pic from the test run last weekend:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_3378.jpg

[Clark White]

What is it you don't like about the OME's? I'm looking at putting a set of either 891 or 892 springs on my 99. What leingth and travel did you decide were best?

I'm also dreaming of some 255's, but I have 4.11's. Does the performance and milage suffer a lot? Would 4.56's be too much of a change if I'm looking to keep things enjoyable down the HW as well?

Thanks!
Clark

P.S. AWESOME LOOKING RIG!

[shawkins]

What is it you don't like about the OME's? I'm looking at putting a set of either 891 or 892 springs on my 99. What leingth and travel did you decide were best?

I'm also dreaming of some 255's, but I have 4.11's. Does the performance and milage suffer a lot? Would 4.56's be too much of a change if I'm looking to keep things enjoyable down the HW as well?

Thanks!
Clark

P.S. AWESOME LOOKING RIG!
The OME shocks are what I don't like, not the springs. The damping just doesn't match up very well with the Fox's, and if I'm being hard on the rig I think they start to fade. Everyone that rides in my back seat says something along the lines of "Are you going to get shocks like what you have in the front for the back? It's pretty bumpy back here."

The 890 springs though, I love those. They have handled whatever load I have thrown at them so far. They also flex really well.

I ran my 255's with 4.10 gearing for around 10k miles. It wasn't too bad, it still cruised on the freeway just fine. Big hills and mountain passes became slow going though. I just changed to 4.30 gears about 3k miles ago and that helped some, but I really need 4.56's. I have the 5-speed manual though, if you have the auto tranny you would most likely want 4.88's.

IIRC, with 4.56's, 5-speed and 255's the RPM's should only be 100 or 200 higher at 70MPH than when the rig was stock.

[CYi5]

I ran my 255's with 4.10 gearing for around 10k miles. It wasn't too bad, it still cruised on the freeway just fine. Big hills and mountain passes became slow going though. I just changed to 4.30 gears about 3k miles ago and that helped some, but I really need 4.56's. I have the 5-speed manual though, if you have the auto tranny you would most likely want 4.88's.

IIRC, with 4.56's, 5-speed and 255's the RPM's should only be 100 or 200 higher at 70MPH than when the rig was stock.

Yup i'd agree with all of that. 4.56 + 255/85s on my 5spd taco was perfect. I'd run 4.88's if I were to put 255/85's on the auto runner. I'm running 235/85's on 4.30's and it does well. Runner's lookin' good man, keep it up!

[Clark White]

Awesome, thanks for the advice! I've heard a few people mention that the OME shocks are crap, so I'm probably going to go with the Bilsteins or Rancho's.

I have a 5spd, so I've got that on my side, but I have a cross country trip coming up in a few months, so I think at least for my first set I'm going to go with 235's. You have DEFINITELY got me thinking about those 255's though! :victory:

Clark

[shawkins]

Here's a small update:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_5196.jpg

DBA Rotors, Rebuilt Tundra calipers, Toyota pads.

My stock brakes were really starting to become inadequate. They would easily fade, and just seemed to struggle to bring the vehicle to a stop quickly and safely. The rotors warped, so instead of replacing the pads/rotors with stock components I decided to upgrade it all!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_5202.jpg

One of the easiest modifications to do. Everything bolts right up.

So far everything is great, the truck stops easier and better than I ever remember. I wish I had done this upgrade sooner.

[tacollie]

Do you know which OME shocks you had? There are 2 sets, one of which is way to soft. Your truck looks good.

[shawkins]

Do you know which OME shocks you had? There are 2 sets, one of which is way to soft. Your truck looks good.
I have the standard ones. N86 I believe is their model number.

[shawkins]

Time for an update!

I got my panhard bar on!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_5903.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_5900.jpg

Specs:
Bar - 4130 chromoly from Spidertrax, powder coated by my friend
Heims - XAM-10T one is right hand thread, the other is left hand
Hardware - F911 bolts, Grade 8 washers and nuts, some mis-alignment spacers

I also just got my 4.30 front diff put in. I was rolling around without it for a few months. Winter is here, and I'm going snow wheeling this week so I finally found the time to get back together and installed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_5949.jpg

That is the best front flex I have ever gotten out of this thing!

Next up is making some beefy front sway bar endlinks since I completely broke one and trashed the other.

[TheEstablishment]

Very nice build!

What did those Fox C/O's cost you? Do you know how their ride compares to any of the other C/O options out there?

How do you like those Stubb's sliders? Those are the same ones that I am looking at getting.

[shawkins]

Very nice build!

What did those Fox C/O's cost you? Do you know how their ride compares to any of the other C/O options out there?

How do you like those Stubb's sliders? Those are the same ones that I am looking at getting.
I got the Fox C/O's as a present from a best friend. IIRC, they run around $1400. I have never ridden in another Taco or 3G 4Runner with C/O's before so I dont know how they compare to other C/O's. I haven't been able to weld the sliders on yet... I should be getting them on soon though.

[shawkins]

Had some fun in the snow the other day. We were in about 18 to 24 inches at one point.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_5987.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_5983.jpg


I'm planning on welding my sliders on one night this week. I've only had them sitting in the garage for a year or so now...don't want to rush these things!

The pinion bearing in the rear end is toasted. Last time I checked the pinion flange had about an 1/8" of up/down play in it, and its getting worse. Stupid crush sleeves! I'm planning on regearing up to 4.88's very soon so I'm trying to not explode the ring gear in the mean time while I collect the parts and get everything cryo treated.

[CYi5]

What are you going to use to weld them on? I bought some demello sliders for xmas and can't decide if I want to use my Lincoln 125 that I have in the garage, or drive a couple hours and use a relative's 220v Miller...I'm not sure how much juice is actually required to weld to our frames.

[shawkins]

I'll be using a Miller 250 MIG. The frame is 1/8" IIRC and the scab plates on my sliders are 3/16", I've never used one of those smaller 120v MIGs but I would be leery of using it to weld on the frame. Do you have it setup as a MIG or with flux cure?

[shawkins]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_6304.jpg

Learned two things: welding upside down while laying on your back SUCKS, and its a giant PITA welding the tops of those scab plates! I only got the one side done tonight, I'll get the other done another night this week.

[CYi5]

Looks good man! I believe there is flux-core wire in the 125...but it's also running gas so the welds turn out decent. I'll probably just cruise down to San Diego to do it, thanks for the advice.

[shawkins]

I still need to trim my fender flares and put them back on and figure out something for the front.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_6627.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_6629.jpg

[Applejack]

What are you going to use to weld them on? I bought some demello sliders for xmas and can't decide if I want to use my Lincoln 125 that I have in the garage, or drive a couple hours and use a relative's 220v Miller...I'm not sure how much juice is actually required to weld to our frames.

I welded a set of sliders on to an '81 Toyota I had, using a Lincoln 115 it worked fine, but you do have to take your time, you have to linger in your welds a bit longer for good penetration but work with about and inch at a time and then let things cool down a bit before carrying on to prevent weak spots in the frame.

[RusM]

Time for an update!

I got my panhard bar on!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_5903.jpg


Bar - 4130 chromoly from Spidertrax, powder coated by my friend
Heims - XAM-10T one is right hand thread, the other is left hand
Hardware - F911 bolts, Grade 8 washers and nuts, some mis-alignment spacers



What are the specs on length on your panhard? Is it adjustable? Also, where did you order the parts? I am almost at the point of ordering and piecing together a lift for my truck. :chef:

[shawkins]

The chromoly link, and rod ends I got from Spidertrax. Link length: 33.5"
http://www.spidertrax.com/Chromoly-Link-L125101Y
http://www.spidertrax.com/s.nl/sc.2/category.37/.f

Spidertrax has these threaded inserts:
http://www.spidertrax.com/s.nl/sc.2/category.1284/.f
I wish I had them put one on one end of the link. That end would have to mount to the axle though as clearance at the frame mount is tight and it might not clear.

The F911 bolts, washers, lock washers, and rod end jam nuts I got from Allens Fasteners. www.allensfasteners.com

The misalignment spacers are from Poly Performance. Part number: PPM-3720-10-07
http://www.polyperformance.com/shop/Misalignment-Spacers-p-646.html

The overall mounting width with the rod end and two misalignment spacers fits perfectly in the factory brackets! Over all width of rod end/ spacers is 1.62" and the width of the brackets is like 1.63". The difference was so small that as I tightened down the bolts it easily closed up the tiny gap.

[RusM]

Thanks brother! IN reading your build thread I saw you were looking for a rear shock option to complement your c/o's. I have been looking around and found a couple of potential options, let me know what you think.

So I've really been obsessively researching which rear shocks I should go with and I have identified several possibilities.
ICON (http://www.toyotaoffroadparts.com/Icon_Vehicle_Dynamics/toyota_shocks.htm) makes a direct replacement for the 3rd Gen's.
Now, the really intriguing option I am looking at is using a rear shock that is for a lifted FJ Cruiser. Looking at dimensions and mounting options this might be an option to have a rear shock that will match the performance of the front c/o's.
Swayaway (http://www.metaltech4x4.com/products_swayaway.htm)
FOX (http://www.offroadwarehouse.com/products/sfID1/12/sfID2/730/sfID3/735/productID/3980)
Still not quite sure if this would work or not. The lengths of the shocks and the mounting seem to be within an acceptable level of tolerance for the rear of the 4RnR's. Especially when you consider the lifted applications.

[CYi5]

Nice, those Icon shocks are new for the 4runner, don't remember seeing them before. OME also has a new Nitrocharger Sport shock that you may want to look into. I wish they offered one with a reservoir, I liked the performance of my DR rear shocks on the taco with resi's.

http://www.safari4x4.com/ome/omenitrochargersport.jpg

[xcmountain80]

I welded in regular mounts to get away from the infinite Japanese stud style upper shock mount. http://www.yotatech.com/f2/oh-upper-rear-shock-mount-let-me-count-ways-i-hate-you-159970/

Love you

A

[shawkins]

The new OME Nitrocharger Sports are #60027. Most likely I'll end up with the Fox Shox for the rear of a FJ Cruiser, and make new bump stops.

980-99-417-A is the part number for the Fox rear FJ Cruiser shocks. ORW says the collapsed length is 14.85". OME 60027 are 338mm collapsed which is 13.3". So theoretically I need to space down my bump stops around 1.5" or build new ones. I think 1.75" or 2" would probably be smarter, to allow for some margin of error.

FJ Cruiser Fox Shox: www.offroadwarehouse.com/products/manufacturerID/2/sfID1/12/sfID2/730/sfID3/735
OME Catalog: www.4x4extreme.be/amortisseurs/ome-cat-24-export.pdf
60027 specs are on page #96
N86 specs are on page #98

Eventually I want to do something like this: www.tacomaterritory.com/forum/showthread.php?t=88480

[mosupernak]

Nice build page man. Looks like a lot of hard work good luck!

[CYi5]

I believe the bumps (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=522672&postcount=118) I put together came out to 2" lower than stock. Definitely helped out soaking up the dips before the coils compressed too much.

[shawkins]

I believe the bumps (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=522672&postcount=118) I put together came out to 2" lower than stock. Definitely helped out soaking up the dips before the coils compressed too much.
At ride height, about how many inches of up travel do you have with those?

Thanks

[Cambo]

This is the "poor, starving college student edition"?! Damn!! I need to stop working and go back to school! J/K the build is great and I need a friend like yours so I can try out those coilovers. My suspension lift is all OME and the ride really sucks. I too want to upgrade from OME shocks and see how the ride is. Again, the rig looks good and this thread gives a ton of great ideas!! Bad for me! :Wow1:

[shawkins]

This is the "poor, starving college student edition"?! Damn!! I need to stop working and go back to school! J/K the build is great and I need a friend like yours so I can try out those coilovers. My suspension lift is all OME and the ride really sucks. I too want to upgrade from OME shocks and see how the ride is. Again, the rig looks good and this thread gives a ton of great ideas!! Bad for me! :Wow1:
Well I do have a part time job (full time in the summer) and my 4Runner is pretty much the only thing I sink my money into. That and my friends have really hooked me up! :wings: Thanks for the compliment!

Today I ordered new lower ball joints and outer TRE's from Toyota. Toyota wanted $130 for new inners! No way! Napa wants $70 each for Dana units so I'll most likely end up with those unless I can find Moogs locally.

I'll most likely convert the inner TRE to a clevis/heim setup when I get Total Chaos UCA's. I can replace the heims for $50 or less per side, so I would save money in the long run I'm thinking.

[MillerPKA]

Well I do have a part time job (full time in the summer) and my 4Runner is pretty much the only thing I sink my money into. That and my friends have really hooked me up! :wings: Thanks for the compliment!

Today I ordered new lower ball joints and outer TRE's from Toyota. Toyota wanted $130 for new inners! No way! Napa wants $70 each for Dana units so I'll most likely end up with those unless I can find Moogs locally.

I'll most likely convert the inner TRE to a clevis/heim setup when I get Total Chaos UCA's. I can replace the heims for $50 or less per side, so I would save money in the long run I'm thinking.

Sounds interesting. Looking good man

[RusM]

The new OME Nitrocharger Sports are #60027. Most likely I'll end up with the Fox Shox for the rear of a FJ Cruiser, and make new bump stops.

980-99-417-A is the part number for the Fox rear FJ Cruiser shocks. ORW says the collapsed length is 14.85". OME 60027 are 338mm collapsed which is 13.3". So theoretically I need to space down my bump stops around 1.5" or build new ones. I think 1.75" or 2" would probably be smarter, to allow for some margin of error.

FJ Cruiser Fox Shox: www.offroadwarehouse.com/products/manufacturerID/2/sfID1/12/sfID2/730/sfID3/735
OME Catalog: www.4x4extreme.be/amortisseurs/ome-cat-24-export.pdf
60027 specs are on page #96
N86 specs are on page #98

Eventually I want to do something like this: www.tacomaterritory.com/forum/showthread.php?t=88480

So, after further research the FJ Fox Shox would probably be too long for our application, not only would there need to be an extended bumpstop but a limit strap as well.
There is good news on the rear shock front though. Today I talked to Radflo (http://www.radflo.com/default.htm) and they are willing to custom make rear shocks for the 3rd Gen 4Runners, for $185 a shock in their 2.0 emulsion shocks. The problem I am having is getting a compressed and extended measurement to give him for the shock. I do not have my rear coils yet and I imagine this would have some effect on the measurement! I think the OME shock dimensions could be copied and would most likely match well when using the OME 890 rear coils.
Shawkins, you don't mind clogging up your thread with all of this shock talk? We could start up another if you feel it detracts from your build thread. I am sure a mod could be persuaded to split off the off topic (from your build) stuff to its own thread.

[shawkins]

So, after further research the FJ Fox Shox would probably be too long for our application, not only would there need to be an extended bumpstop but a limit strap as well.
There is good news on the rear shock front though. Today I talked to Radflo (http://www.radflo.com/default.htm) and they are willing to custom make rear shocks for the 3rd Gen 4Runners, for $185 a shock in their 2.0 emulsion shocks. The problem I am having is getting a compressed and extended measurement to give him for the shock. I do not have my rear coils yet and I imagine this would have some effect on the measurement! I think the OME shock dimensions could be copied and would most likely match well when using the OME 890 rear coils.
Shawkins, you don't mind clogging up your thread with all of this shock talk? We could start up another if you feel it detracts from your build thread. I am sure a mod could be persuaded to split off the off topic (from your build) stuff to its own thread.
Nah, I don't mind. It helps me keep all of the options Im looking at together.:)

I like the fact that the Fox's are really long because if I'm going to be carrying a lot of gear, I could easily swap in heavier duty springs. Just unbolt one end of the limit strap, jack up the rig and let the springs fall out. Put the HD springs in, lower the rig and bolt the straps back up.

$185 doesn't sound too bad for custom length shocks.

[97kurt]

Today I talked to Radflo (http://www.radflo.com/default.htm) and they are willing to custom make rear shocks for the 3rd Gen 4Runners, for $185 a shock in their 2.0 emulsion shocks. The problem I am having is getting a compressed and extended measurement to give him for the shock. I do not have my rear coils yet and I imagine this would have some effect on the measurement! I think the OME shock dimensions could be copied and would most likely match well when using the OME 890 rear coils.


Radflo recently made a set of shocks for the 4th 4runner and they are getting pretty good reviews on them. I'm gonna try to get a friend of mine that is a reseller the measurements to see what they can do. Hopefully I can get them to him in the next two weeks. Only difference is I am gonna push for the 2.0 remote reservoir option. Might as well do it right the first time.

[RusM]

Radflo recently made a set of shocks for the 4th 4runner and they are getting pretty good reviews on them. I'm gonna try to get a friend of mine that is a reseller the measurements to see what they can do. Hopefully I can get them to him in the next two weeks. Only difference is I am gonna push for the 2.0 remote reservoir option. Might as well do it right the first time.
You can just call Radflo and deal directly with them, rather than going through another party. The guy answered the phone directly and was very helpful. What measurements are you going to take? Directly off of your truck or borrowing them from an existing shock?
Further research has another option too, Fox's 8" travel 2.0 emulsion is available with a stem mount as a special order item. I have a couple of emails out to see what if any cost this will add to the shock. It's pretty much decision time! :wings::smiley_drive:

[97kurt]

You can just call Radflo and deal directly with them, rather than going through another party. The guy answered the phone directly and was very helpful. What measurements are you going to take? Directly off of your truck or borrowing them from an existing shock?
Further research has another option too, Fox's 8" travel 2.0 emulsion is available with a stem mount as a special order item. I have a couple of emails out to see what if any cost this will add to the shock. It's pretty much decision time! :wings::smiley_drive:

I got your PM, but missed this post.

The fact that fox makes a stem mount is really interesting, got a link?

I'm running the bilsteins 5100s that sonoran steel sells and they were great at first but now bug the crap out of me. They are slightly longer than the OME n86 but I am not sure by how much.

The OME n86 measures 21.2" extended to 13.0" collapsed. So just shy of 8" of travel. I'll see if I can find some time to measure mine this weekend if I have time.


Edit: found the fox info and it looks promising.
Fox 8" remote resi (stem mount) 21.2 to 13.19 Part (980-24-635) about $190 each
Fox 10" remote resi (stem mount) 25.19 to 15.19 Part (980-24-636) about $190 each

[shawkins]

Fox's 980-24-635 has a stem top mount and lower bushing mount. It is 13.19" collapsed and 21.19" extended.

[evanthebruin]

Long time lurker :coffee: but I think this is the first thread I need chime in on. I'm very interested to see how your rear suspension build goes. Your research has been helpful as I plan my rear. I am also considering a shock hoop outside the framerail like this (http://www.tacomaterritory.com/forum/showthread.php?p=1791350).

Nice runner man.

[shawkins]

Well, around 1000 miles ago (I drive way too much!) I got the lower ball joints and all four tie rod ends replaced! It feels like a different rig, huge difference! I still need to replace the upper ball joints though, which is where I feel like my current clunk is coming from.

Overall, it was definitely worth the all the money ($400) to replace all of these joints. The rig feels much more stable at higher speeds now.

Speaking of driving a lot, I just hit 150K miles the other day! I bought this truck with 99K on the clicker and in just over a year, I've put 50K on her and she has never let me down! She has always got me to school and work on time!

[shawkins]

It was time for new tires.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_8131.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_8137.jpg

255/85R16 Toyo M/T's

[NorCalBorn]

Hey Steve..*So do you still even have the '91 and does it even get any love any more. ;) That thread said to tell you that it's "Lonely :littlefriend: "
:coffeedrink:

Shane

[RusM]

It was time for new tires.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_8131.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/914Runner/Auto/1997%204Runner/IMG_8137.jpg

255/85R16 Toyo M/T's

How many miles did you end up getting out of the KM/2's?

[shawkins]

Hey Steve..*So do you still even have the '91 and does it even get any love any more. ;) That thread said to tell you that it's "Lonely :littlefriend: "
:coffeedrink:

Shane
Yeah, I still have the '91. It has been sitting in the driveway while I've been collecting parts to rebuild it. It was in a wreck, so I have to replace the whole front end. The rear ring gear is also missing 3 teeth :victory: I finally have all the parts to rebuild the diff, I just need to take it all up to Bobby Long and have him cryo treat the bearings and R&P.

Once it can drive again I'll fix the body and get it painted. I have new bumpers, fenders, hood, grill, emblems, door handles, mirrors, etc for it. I still need to get new window and door seals and find a clean dash. I'm shooting to have everything done sometime this summer. It should look like a brand new 1991 4Runner when its all done!

[shawkins]

How many miles did you end up getting out of the KM/2's?
Around 45K.