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SOAZ
03-05-2007, 10:48 PM
:imagesCADZQMBJ: Those two guys are how I feel with every build I've ever done. Eyes wide open. Ready to race and I just wait.... For my bank account to have enough to do the next mod and then..... wait....
hahaha. Thats all part of the fun!
So far I have:
replaced the fuel filter, air filter, tranny fluid, front and rear diff, transfer case fluid, windshield wipers, spark plugs, plug wires, added a CB radio in the cigarette lighter spot, tinted the front windows to match, added 265/75/16 bridgestone revo tires load rating c, done the rear diff breather extension, greased all of the driveline zerks, put my mag light up with quick fists, cut the end of the big rear cone bump stops off, cut the lower mud flap part off, removed the running boards, done sea foam, replaced the pcv valve, replaced the o2 sensor, put a radar detector in (its a race car!) desert pinstriped the hell out of it and hidden enough tools, zip ties, duct tape and food in the damn thing to last a week.
Here is how she sits after all that!
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/Crown%20King%203-4-07/CrownKing3-4-07_20070303_99_15-1.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/Crown%20King%203-4-07/CrownKing3-4-07_20070303_99_21.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/Crown%20King%203-4-07/CrownKing3-4-07_20070303_99_29.jpg

Bighead
03-05-2007, 11:27 PM
Do you have a goal for your 4Runner beyond what you have already done to it?

SOAZ
03-06-2007, 01:34 AM
Yah. Like my old tacoma it will never be done. I was going to keep it mild, but I just decided that I want to take it to a "higher" level of mild. It seems stupid to get the OEM lift with 99 coils when I could get donahoes for the same price. Might as well step it up.
My goal is to have a bit of a sleeper. 255/85 Tires, stock rims, sliders, modded bumpers that somehow retain a bit of stock feel, all of the electronic goodies, a e-locker in the rear, a drawer/sleeping platform, limo tint, maybe even a supercharger some day...

SOAZ
03-28-2007, 08:44 PM
So last night I took my new www.suvcargocaddy.com locking drawer and started to build my sleeper. I took one 4x8 of sanded plywood. Cut a 39" section for the part beind the rear seats.
The width was right on at 4 feet. Then I installed some mounting points for the turn buckles on all 4 corners to hold it all securely in place.
The front section is 31" long. I built a leg that pivots down to support the front section.
I have an inverter that I'm mounting in the back, 2 layers of the carpet padding I'm going to cut and lay down. Green indoor outdoor carpet. Some buckles to hold the two pieces together. I'll post some pics of the progress tonight. :suning:

jeffryscott
03-29-2007, 02:29 AM
look forward to the build up, and the pics of the cargo caddy. I made my own drawers, but the cargo caddy looks like a nice, ready-made solution.

I started my box as a 39-inch square, now I'm looking at how to add an extension to make a sleeping platform for when i'm alone. If you can, post some detail shots as well as to how you do the sleeping extension.

love that green too.

articulate
03-29-2007, 06:43 AM
Well, that SUV cargo caddy is slick. Share some photos . . . :clapsmile

offroad_nomad
03-29-2007, 02:03 PM
Your right to start out slow and figure out the difference of what you need vs. what you want. I took a quick look at your website and based on some of your photos and the terrain you cover, I'd suggest adding a set of rocksliders sometime in the near future.

I got mine from Badland Bumpers. (http://www.badlandbumpers.com/index_files/page0008.htm)

SOAZ
03-29-2007, 03:23 PM
Your right to start out slow and figure out the difference of what you need vs. what you want. I took a quick look at your website and based on some of your photos and the terrain you cover, I'd suggest adding a set of rocksliders sometime in the near future.

I got mine from Badland Bumpers. (http://www.badlandbumpers.com/index_files/page0008.htm)
Definately have some sliders in mind for the future. The rock are SHARP in AZ!
I'll check those out!

SOAZ
03-29-2007, 03:31 PM
Okay, here are some pics!
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem005.jpg
I put the brackets on each corner and a turn buckle at each corner to secure it down. The cargo caddy has rubber stoppers on the base of it, but with spirited offroad driving there is nothing from keeping it getting airborne...
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem009.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem008.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem010.jpg
Here is the extension. I made a 9 inch leg that swings down to hold the front piece in place. (since the seats dont sit completely flat I did 9 inches instead of the 10 which is the height of the caddy.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem006.jpg
My mag lite for when I hear scary noises in the night.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem007.jpg
My inverter for a night lite!
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem014.jpg
This is what I had fun with last night. Lots of cutting, staple gunning, cutting again. Yes, that is one messy garage right now!!!!
I'll post better pics of the extension piece tonight!! I put two layers of the carpet padding on both platforms and then the green indoor outdoor.
Woohoo!

SOAZ
03-29-2007, 03:37 PM
look forward to the build up, and the pics of the cargo caddy. I made my own drawers, but the cargo caddy looks like a nice, ready-made solution.

I started my box as a 39-inch square, now I'm looking at how to add an extension to make a sleeping platform for when i'm alone. If you can, post some detail shots as well as to how you do the sleeping extension.

love that green too.
Thanks I love that color too. I was all about silver or black on my tacoma, but I like the green. I feel like less people have it... And it blends in the outdoors...
39 seems to be the magic number! Thank god Home depot cuts the wood for you because I dont have a power saw. 39x48 for the rear, 31x48 for the extension.

SOAZ
03-31-2007, 02:38 AM
I'm DONE!!! woohoooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Check it out. Comfy as heck and it matches the outside of my car tooooooooooo!
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem006-1.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem002.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem003-1.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem001.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem004.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem005-1.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem007-1.jpg

jeffryscott
03-31-2007, 02:49 AM
Looks great., I'd love to see it with the drawer open if you have any of those pics.

And, if you still have it all laid out, how much length is there front to back? I'm 6-3 and wonder if there is enough space to sleep comfortably. I've got too much crap in mine right now to figure that out.

And where did you get the d-rings you attached the turnbuckles to? I'm looking for a way to secure my box and haven't seen anything like that at Home Depot.

My box is still plain wood - need to herculine it or finish it in some way, then get the sleeping platform configured - if it will work for me.

Thanks for sharing.

SOAZ
03-31-2007, 07:00 AM
The length of mine is 70 inches, but I could have made it 80 inches easily! If you put the front seat backs up you can get even more!
I'll take some pics of the drawer tomorrow.
The little brackets I found at ACE hardware. The Home depot guys actually told me to go there because they dont have that stuff. I found the brackets, all 4 for about 3.50 in the car section. Next to the truck tie down brackets.
More pics to come tomorrow. I'm trying it out for the first time tomorrow night! :suning:

SOAZ
04-01-2007, 09:00 PM
Inside the drawer:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/4-1-074Peaks001.jpg
I fit!!
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/4-1-074Peaks002.jpg
What do you guys think?

Bergger
04-01-2007, 09:34 PM
Put a shirt on!! Oh you mean what do we think about the drawer/sleep platform. I like it. I was going to do the same thing last year with the same set of drawers for my wife's 4Runner. But I ended up selling it so never got the chance to do it. Let us know how it works out in the field. Good job.

SOAZ
04-03-2007, 12:15 AM
one two three, suck in!!
Hahaha!
Here it is in its first use. It was great!!
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-1-07%204%20Peaks/4-1-074Peaks005.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-1-07%204%20Peaks/4-1-074Peaks009.jpg :PROFSheriffHL:

flyingwil
04-03-2007, 03:23 AM
Tim-

This is an awesome idea! Love the latch, and very well thought out.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem005-1.jpg

jeffryscott
04-03-2007, 03:28 AM
excellent. looks comfortable. thanks again for sharing.

kcowyo
04-03-2007, 03:40 AM
Nice work!

I'm partial to the 3rd gen green Sport 4Runners myself. I looked long and hard for a green 'Runner with the hood scoop, but we wound up with the silver SR5 instead.

The Cargo Caddy and your platform looks like a great solution for maximizing space and gear storage. Hope it continues to serve you well.

SOAZ
04-03-2007, 04:17 AM
Thanks guys!! For my first carpentry venture I'm very excited and the words of encouragment help! I wasn't sure whether it would look hack to the outside observer!! A little lift and I'll be ready to tag along on more real adventures...

Wil, here is some free advertising for all of the flys and bee's up on four peaks. I expect a royalty check if they buy anything!!! haha
:bike_rider:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-1-07%204%20Peaks/4-1-074Peaks043.jpg

teotwaki
04-03-2007, 06:24 AM
I fit!!
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/4-1-074Peaks002.jpg
What do you guys think?

Ya needs yur cowboy hat!! :cow: :gunt: :PROFSheriffHL:

Looks like a really clean and functional system!

xcmountain80
04-03-2007, 12:20 PM
Man I didnt even think of that! If I didn't already have a roof tent indoor sleeping might have been the way to go. Good Job keep it coming.

Aaron

BogusBlake
04-03-2007, 12:27 PM
That looks awesome! Nice and clean.

Jeff- You can always check McMaster-Carr for hardware like that. Hinges, latches, tiedowns, all kinds of stuff. http://www.mcmaster.com

SOAZ
04-03-2007, 02:32 PM
Haha! The cowboy hat is a MUST!! :26_7_2:

Thanks! I like the roof top, but it was out of my price range. I used a $50 gift card from christmas at home depot plus 25 bucks and about 20 dollars in hardware and latches from ACE.

I 2nd McMastercarr! When I was at donahoe we'd bet on how fast stuff would show up. We'd hit the online order button and some dude would show up within 5 hours with the part. Crazy!! ALso, I used it just recently to by a clevis with a bigger capacity than the normal offroad ones that warn or any other co makes and for less too!:clapsmile

SOAZ
04-30-2007, 11:37 PM
New stuff.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-29-07%20Bloody%20Basin%20and%20sheep%20bridge/4-28-07bloodybasinroad005.jpg
PLUS
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-29-07%20Bloody%20Basin%20and%20sheep%20bridge/4-28-07bloodybasinroad010.jpg
Equals
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-29-07%20Bloody%20Basin%20and%20sheep%20bridge/4-28-07bloodybasinroad007.jpg
and
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-29-07%20Bloody%20Basin%20and%20sheep%20bridge/4-28-07bloodybasinroad012.jpg
Once you get some 255-85-16 cooper st's you get
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-29-07%20Bloody%20Basin%20and%20sheep%20bridge/4-28-07bloodybasinroad041.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-29-07%20Bloody%20Basin%20and%20sheep%20bridge/4-28-07bloodybasinroad043.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-29-07%20Bloody%20Basin%20and%20sheep%20bridge/4-28-07bloodybasinroad044.jpg

edit: comments to donahoe: go back to a normal recessed shrader valve (they wont because people kept poking them and then going whoops I let the nitrogen out), get a new plastic bag sealer (still using the same crap *** one from when I was there that wont seal the bag so all of the bolts are everywhere), Go back to the othe spring manufacturer (several chunks of powdercoat were missing off the springs)

jeffryscott
05-01-2007, 02:29 AM
That looks awesome ... I know the Donahoes, but what are the rear springs?

I like the Cooper's too. Can't wait to see it all in person,

Jeff

SOAZ
05-01-2007, 02:43 AM
Thanks Jeff,
The rear are performance products springs. They are supposed to be 1" lift, but when your coming from out lowrider 01's they provide about 2 inches.

Heres my rationale:
I put bilstien 5100's on the rear as well. Steve at sonoran steels design offers more lift and more travel. I didn't want the extra lift, its top heavy enough and I like going fast sometimes.
The Old Man Emu kit provides more wheel travel, but they are the old emulsion style shocks. After about 50 miles of driving on roughwashboard roads at an average of 35mph my donahoes were warm to the touch, the 5100's were hot enough to cook an egg or take off some skin. (thats the reason i didn't go with the old man emu or any other emulsion type shock) They would have fadded about 10 miles in and been worthless for dampening.

On the tires:
I love my pizza cutters. Highway speed and power has changed, but very little. So far so good.

I've gotta come and visit my parents sometime soon. Maybe we should organize a little trip to the falls in reddington and then up the back way to mt lemon? Or some other trail near town. :wavey: :victory:

jeffryscott
05-01-2007, 03:16 AM
a Redington run is always good. Just let me know when you are coming and I'll try to be available. That would be fun ...

I don't know anything about the internals of the Donahoe's, can you explain how do they differ internally from the OME or Bilsteins? And how do they stay so cool over the rough stuff without an external reservoir?

SOAZ
05-01-2007, 03:35 AM
Jeff,
I was comparing the billies and the others.
The 5100's have oil where the piston moves inside of the shock. Then there is a "floating piston" or really just think of it as a wall to keep the nitrogen pressure on the other side of that wall. This keeps the oil as oil so it doesn't get aerated.
The other types of shocks (dampers if we want to be correct) are emulsion and have oil and nitrogen in there, mixed. If you move an emulsion shock up and down two or ten times the valving feels one way. If you do it 20 or 30 times the oil and nitrogen have turned into a frothy foam that has a completely different valving property. This new foamy mix moves through the piston (which controls the valving) MUCH easier than pure oil so your valving goes from what you feel driving down the road to a much more mushy feel that at some point will almost be non existent in a resistance sense. Then you are riding on the coils basically. (as long as you dont hit any big bumps some people love this, picture an old cadillac going down the highway and bouncing along, its a nice ride until you hit the big freeway bump and cant stop shaking)
http://www.calsci.com/motorcycleinfo/Images/SHOCKS5.gif
The center pic is of an internal reservoir shock. It works the exact same as an external. The only difference is the volume of oil.
Another good example http://www.tonyfoale.com/Articles/Springs/Spring2.gif
These diagrams show the simplest technology of a shock. The ranchos, Old man emu's etc lack the piston. They are simply filled with a prescribed amount of oil and then pressurized.

The idea of the front coilovers having an external reservoir helping them is:
An external reservoir would increase oil volume BUT that oil volume would not be increased enough (unless you used a LARGE reservoir) to overcome from the increased heat that the oil traveling through right angles and a thin hose would create.
The other benefit of external res is increased shock travel with the same body length when compared to a internal res shock. (Just look at the diagram, when you put the res somewhere other than internally it saves some room thus letting you put a longer shaft into the shock body) Hence what fox calls its short bodies. (An external res shock that takes advantage of the extra room with a longer shaft)
This is worthless for the tacoma/4runner suspension since our cv's can barely handle the stock travel let alone a 3 inch increase. 1 inch extra is pushing it.

SOAZ
05-22-2007, 12:19 AM
Sway bars attached in the rear loose in the front! I'm happy: :arabia:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/saguaro%20lake%205-07/sesese.jpg

p1michaud
05-22-2007, 12:49 AM
Sway bars attached in the rear loose in the front! I'm happy:

Your 4Runner is coming along nicely. Expo is starting to put together some nice 4Runners to go along with the Tacomas. :Mechanic:

Cheers :beer:,
P

jeffryscott
05-22-2007, 01:44 AM
Sway bars attached in the rear loose in the front! I'm happy: :arabia:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/saguaro%20lake%205-07/sesese.jpg

Looks like a lot more flex up front - mine is just the opposite, loose in back, attached up front. Do you get too much drop for the CVs with the Donahoes?

SOAZ
05-22-2007, 05:00 AM
Your 4Runner is coming along nicely. Expo is starting to put together some nice 4Runners to go along with the Tacomas. :Mechanic:

Cheers :beer:,
P
Thank you sir. I'm loving it! :safari-rig: :smiley_drive:

SOAZ
05-22-2007, 05:04 AM
Looks like a lot more flex up front - mine is just the opposite, loose in back, attached up front. Do you get too much drop for the CVs with the Donahoes?

Travel in front should be identical to stock. Increasing it just causes too many cv issues. I wouldn't do the upper arm unless it was "given" too me, but I may turn mine into the 1 inch longer version sometime down the road. It just doesn't make enough of a difference to spend the time right now.
From what I've seen and heard the rear sway bar being detached doesn't do a ton, but from what I've fealt the front makes a pretty good size difference.
It also made the ride much nicer.
Last saturday with swaybar it was bumper and a little jerky when compared to Sunday with it off...
Plus with the increased spring rate of the DR's the body roal is almost non existant.:Mechanic:

xcmountain80
05-22-2007, 02:26 PM
I forget what lift if any your running up front but I have the SS lift and use his limit straps to keep CV's in check. Though running 3" in the front w/o straps could possibly lead to cv disslocation or worse.
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/P4121848.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/P4121847.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/P1310542.jpg

Aaron

SOAZ
05-22-2007, 06:20 PM
I forget what lift if any your running up front but I have the SS lift and use his limit straps to keep CV's in check. Though running 3" in the front w/o straps could possibly lead to cv disslocation or worse.
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/P4121848.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/P4121847.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/P1310542.jpg

Aaron

The reason he uses limit straps is because the kit uses a shock that is too long and would extend too far if you didn't have limit straps. The donahoe coilover, stock shocks etc are designed to limit the down travel and handle the weight of the wheel when it wants to keep drooping.
Yes, if you went to 3 inches of lift the cv's would be at an angle that would constantly wear the cv's, sometimes causing failure. The only thing I dont like about limit straps is that they stretch. My old tacoma went from about 14 inches of travel in the rear to a little over 15. This caused some problems...
I would recommend checking the limit straps length for the first 6 months they are on there pretty frequently. Once the initial stretch is out of them they slow down, but will always stretch a little. :Mechanic:

xcmountain80
05-22-2007, 09:54 PM
Stretch, very true. Though they haven't stretched much I will keep an eye on it but being they are on the front of the truck and don't get flexed out to much the speed at which they stretch will be slower, I also noticed the pyrotect straps I have are thicker than say the type Procomp offers which might aid in lessening the stretch. I know there are sway bar disco but for the Runners they dont really do a darn thing.


Aaron

SOAZ
05-23-2007, 12:51 AM
Your right. Our trucks work really well as long as there aren't HUGE articulation demands. (regarding the sway bar issue)
My goal is to get some great approach and departure angles. Bullet proof the bottom though budbuilt and some home made composite plastic skid plates and then I can wheel it like an old v-dub. (just slide over everything on the belly pan! :wings: )
I gotta get the front TJM next or maybe one of my next 5 things. To many things to little wallet! :Mechanic:

SOAZ
05-31-2007, 10:54 PM
The $40 roof-top carrier ROCKS! Great mod! I kept all of our clothes, pillows, and water supply up there. No dust!
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/5-29-07%20Utah%20Grand%20Staircase-%20Escalante-%20Mon%20Vlly/Utah07289.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/5-29-07%20Utah%20Grand%20Staircase-%20Escalante-%20Mon%20Vlly/Utah07234.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/5-29-07%20Utah%20Grand%20Staircase-%20Escalante-%20Mon%20Vlly/Utah07022.jpg

ntsqd
06-01-2007, 02:57 PM
Stretch, very true. Though they haven't stretched much I will keep an eye on it but being they are on the front of the truck and don't get flexed out to much the speed at which they stretch will be slower, I also noticed the pyrotect straps I have are thicker than say the type Procomp offers which might aid in lessening the stretch. I know there are sway bar disco but for the Runners they dont really do a darn thing.


Aaron
Regarding limit straps, most actual strap mfg's will make them to the length you want and with as many layers as you want up to physically fittling them thru their hardware. The more layers the less stretch but the harder they 'hit'.

BTW, around my place molasses is the sand clock by which the pace of project speed is measured, & I have a BIG jar.

SOAZ
06-01-2007, 03:22 PM
BTW, around my place molasses is the sand clock by which the pace of project speed is measured, & I have a BIG jar.

In that case I'm right on time with my build.:costumed-smiley-007

FourByLand
06-01-2007, 07:44 PM
Very nice build, keep it coming!

SOAZ
06-26-2007, 03:53 AM
Very nice build, keep it coming!

Thank YOU sir!
I just made some sliders last saturday down in Tucson. I like how they turned out!! Not bad for scrap metal!!
:arabia:
From this:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/sliders001.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/sliders003.jpg
TO THIS:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/sliders002.jpg
To this:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/sliders004.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/sliders009.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/sliders007.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/sliders011.jpg

woohoo!:Mechanic: :shakin:

SOAZ
06-26-2007, 03:54 AM
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/sliders008.jpg

grouch
06-26-2007, 04:16 AM
Very nice! Those look fantastic.

FourByLand
06-26-2007, 11:51 AM
Very nice, excellent touch with the kick at the end!

Did you add any gussets and have you had a chance to test them out?

notaco
06-26-2007, 01:09 PM
Nice build up, and those sliders look excellent!

SOAZ
06-26-2007, 03:41 PM
Thanks for the kind words everyone! :sombrero:
I did the obligatory jacking up of the whole truck on the sliders to test them out.
Where were you suggesting gussets? If I did any I was going to put a triangle where the tube meets the frame. :arabia:


Very nice, excellent touch with the kick at the end!

Did you add any gussets and have you had a chance to test them out?

ntsqd
06-26-2007, 03:51 PM
What I prefer to do, now that it's too late, is to build rectangular stringers in a taper. Frame rail height at that end and tube diameter height at that end. Avoids the 'notch' where the stringers meet the frame.

Props for the load spreading plates & their orientation!

IMHO a simple gusset on the top of the tube will act, when things are at their most extreme, as a 'cookie cutter' & cut into/thru the stringer tube or the frame. Could easily be that you can't achieve the loading needed for that to happen, I've no idea. An Engineering education isn't always a good thing, you see what could happen, but w/o knowing the loads you don't know if it CAN happen.

SOAZ
06-26-2007, 05:17 PM
Thanks for the info!
So far so good. I am going to run it as is and do a little real world testing to see how they hold up.
If I do the triangle I'll modify it to incorporate some of your suggestions. I think it will be fine... I hope! :Mechanic:

jeffryscott
06-26-2007, 07:43 PM
good job, those look fantastic.

ZooJunkie
06-26-2007, 07:50 PM
What's the diameter and wall thickness of the tubes you used?

PS: I like the build! Been thinking of doing the same for my Zoo.

SOAZ
06-26-2007, 08:39 PM
Thanks!!

.120 wall inch and a half mild steel.
The small 1 inch supports where chromoly.

SOAZ
02-25-2008, 04:59 AM
I got tired of dragging my trailer hitch. I had also punished my rear bumper on a couple rocks. So, I trimmed the bumper up about 5 inches and put a tube of inch and a half mild steel. Then I, really my buddy the fabricator did all of the welding though, cut and rewelded the hitch about 4 inches higher and an inch further in. :Mechanic:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0520_edited-1.jpg

4RunAmok
02-25-2008, 06:43 AM
I got tired of dragging my trailer hitch. I had also punished my rear bumper on a couple rocks. So, I trimmed the bumper up about 5 inches and put a tube of inch and a half mild steel. Then I, really my buddy the fabricator did all of the welding though, cut and rewelded the hitch about 4 inches higher and an inch further in.OHHH!! I wanna do that so bad!

SOAZ
02-25-2008, 03:44 PM
OHHH!! I wanna do that so bad!
Now I gotta clean that rear tire so its not so unsightly! :yikes:
I had been wanting to do that. It was the last mod before my rear diff went out. :coffee:

Ryanmb21
02-25-2008, 03:54 PM
this is an awesome mod! I would love to do something like that on my 4th gen 4runner. I like this idea better than a huge heavy rear bumper that costs $1,000+.

SOAZ
02-25-2008, 05:23 PM
this is an awesome mod! I would love to do something like that on my 4th gen 4runner. I like this idea better than a huge heavy rear bumper that costs $1,000+.
I may redo it in the future and add some more bracing, a tire mount or at least some 5 Gallon can holders.
That being said I might not. This was free, a piece of scrap tubing 8 feet long. Two 1 inch supports and a few hours work. I bought my buddy beer to cover the disposible cutting wheels I used up.

Now time to find some weather stripping or tubing with a slice in it to put along the edge of the bumper I cut out.

Any suggestions? I've checked checker auto, Home Depot and even Ace with no luck... Where can I find something that actually slides onto and edge that curve like this?

ntsqd
02-25-2008, 05:35 PM
Something like Trim-Lok (http://www.trimlok.com/)?

Cackalak Han
02-25-2008, 05:35 PM
How sturdy is that rear bumper? Is it bolted to the frame? How would it do against the rocks?

SOAZ
02-25-2008, 05:58 PM
Something like Trim-Lok (http://www.trimlok.com/)?
Yes, but how would I go about buying a small quantity. It looks like I can only buy large rolls for hundreds on the sight. Where do you get it?

SOAZ
02-25-2008, 06:00 PM
How sturdy is that rear bumper? Is it bolted to the frame? How would it do against the rocks?
Its sturdy. You can jack the car up on the side of the bar, but right now it flexes too much for my liking. It will be good for a hit or to slide on though. I may add some bracing so it doesn't deflect as much when a rock hits it.

Photog
02-25-2008, 06:28 PM
Tim,
You might look into this stuff, from Bushwacker.
http://www.truckcustomizers.com/products/K6BUS001.FE.html

SOAZ
02-25-2008, 08:42 PM
Tim,
You might look into this stuff, from Bushwacker.
http://www.truckcustomizers.com/products/K6BUS001.FE.html

All of the descriptions sounds promising, but I don't see any pics or diagrams of it. I want to make sure its not just some thin rubber tape that goes in between the flare and the paint. Some of the descriptions sound like thats what it may be.

ntsqd
02-25-2008, 08:59 PM
Yes, but how would I go about buying a small quantity. It looks like I can only buy large rolls for hundreds on the sight. Where do you get it?
McMaster.com, near the bottom of page 3656, priced per foot.

SOAZ
02-25-2008, 09:10 PM
McMaster.com, near the bottom of page 3656, priced per foot.
I should have known. Mcmaster car is the heaven for all parts. I remember while at Donahoe we would order something in the morning and actually take bets on when it would show up. Sometimes same day. Amazing...
Thank you.

SOAZ
02-28-2008, 05:39 AM
Snagletooth.....


http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0539.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0532.jpg

oops
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0527.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0528.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0529.jpg
mmm chunky
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0530.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0538.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0533.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0536.jpg

ntsqd
02-28-2008, 01:41 PM
Nice mesh pattern!

now what, re-gearing, is that why front came out too?

SOAZ
02-28-2008, 03:25 PM
Nice mesh pattern!

now what, re-gearing, is that why front came out too?
:)
Gotta do it, might as well do it right!:jumping:
4.88s

SOAZ
04-16-2008, 11:50 PM
New improvements include ARB lockers front and rear with 4.88's.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_0695.jpg
HID Lights
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-6-08%20AZ%20Rocks/IMG_0965_edited-1.jpg
And a roof top tent.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-11-08%20Four%20Peaks%20area%20camping/IMG_1055.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-11-08%20Four%20Peaks%20area%20camping/IMG_1057.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-11-08%20Four%20Peaks%20area%20camping/IMG_1071.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-6-08%20AZ%20Rocks/IMG_0968_edited-1.jpg

p1michaud
04-17-2008, 11:41 AM
New improvements include ARB lockers front and rear with 4.88's.
HID Lights
And a roof top tent.


Great updates! How are the diff's working for you now that the "master" has set them up. Well the rear one at least.

Cheers,
P

SOAZ
04-17-2008, 05:21 PM
Great updates! How are the diff's working for you now that the "master" has set them up. Well the rear one at least.

Cheers,
P

As perfect as can be! Pretty amazing work and service from ol Zuk! And some good stories too. :REOutCampFire03:
Having the button are just like carrying insurance with me. I love it!

SOAZ
04-29-2008, 05:19 AM
Here are a couple of better shots of the RTT.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-26-08%20Whiplash%20Firebird/IMG_1289.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-26-08%20Whiplash%20Firebird/IMG_1291.jpg

SOAZ
04-29-2008, 05:21 AM
It feels good to do one vain mod for just looks. I love it. :bike_rider:

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_1305.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_1306.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_1312.jpg

DaveInDenver
04-29-2008, 03:20 PM
Saw your pics over at YT. You do realize that we need better daylight shots, don't you? :-)

SOAZ
04-29-2008, 05:06 PM
Of course, of course sir. :sombrero:

Photog
04-29-2008, 05:17 PM
New wheels?

Or just a second set that you swap out for other occasions?

SOAZ
04-29-2008, 06:28 PM
New ones. I think I'll just have the one set. I'm not a big fan of changing out tires for wheeling. Especially since most of my wheeling happens after lots of highway driving. Who knows, maybe.
:26_7_2:

BajaTaco
04-29-2008, 07:07 PM
It's looking awesome Tim :costumed-smiley-007

SOAZ
04-30-2008, 04:35 AM
Thanks Chris.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_1313.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_1317.jpg

weezerbot
04-30-2008, 05:03 AM
Hey Tim, hows that tent working out for you two after another weekend camping in it?

SOAZ
04-30-2008, 03:56 PM
Hey Tim, hows that tent working out for you two after another weekend camping in it?

Sleeping in it is great. I still kinda like the stealth sleeping of crawling in the back onto my sleeping platform a bit. I think I need to see how it is on my first 3-5 day trip. Setting it up and tearing down each night will determine if I can handle it or not. :1888fbbd:
Are you guys going to get one?

CA-RJ
04-30-2008, 04:46 PM
I was just going to ask you what you were going to do with your sleeping platform. Would you ever consider selling it?

SOAZ
04-30-2008, 04:51 PM
I was just going to ask you what you were going to do with your sleeping platform. Would you ever consider selling it?

I would consider it actually. If I sell it I was going to sell it with the "suv cargo caddy" which is the rear drawer system. I want to make sure I give whomever is going to use it every thing they need.

I'll keep this post in mind and shoot you a pm or I'll post about it if I decide to let it go. (its going to be hard to! It was one of the first things Danica and I made to start overlanding in the true sense!)

In my mind I'm either going to make a massive and strone roof rack the runs the length of the 4runer and contours to it. (think similar to 1leglance's Gobi rack) and then stick to camping inside on the platform.

Or

Get rid of the platform and rear drawers and start looking at saving up for an engel next year! and build some taller drawers that hold more and leave a spot for my mountain bike inside.

:peepwall:

CA-RJ
04-30-2008, 05:35 PM
Yeah, please let me know! I'll actually be coming through Phoenix the last week of June (moving out west).

weezerbot
04-30-2008, 11:04 PM
Sleeping in it is great. I still kinda like the stealth sleeping of crawling in the back onto my sleeping platform a bit. I think I need to see how it is on my first 3-5 day trip. Setting it up and tearing down each night will determine if I can handle it or not. :1888fbbd:
Are you guys going to get one?


Cool, I look forward to that review. Ya, the Tent Cot, while comfortable, it just didn't live up to the RTT's that were at Sedonafest this weekend. I'm actually looking at many brands including a new one very similar to yours by Campinglabs.

I'm starting to look into sponsorships too, we have a ton of different trips coming up this year and a huge one to Alaska next and with the cost of gas any little bit will help.

SOAZ
05-14-2008, 01:41 AM
My new, double thickness cover works great on the RTT.
No more holes. I also took the time to sand down the sharp edges on the ladder that made the holes in the first place.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/5-10-08%20Prescott%20Trailer%20Testing/Prescotttrailertesting312.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/5-10-08%20Prescott%20Trailer%20Testing/Prescotttrailertesting163.jpg

FourByLand
05-14-2008, 01:48 AM
Nice!!!

Lets see some more of it opened up in the daylight!

Lovin' the rims to!

ttora4runner
05-14-2008, 02:12 AM
Looks like you got a new ding in the rear door.

SOAZ
05-14-2008, 02:25 AM
Looks like you got a new ding in the rear door.
No, thats an old one from when my dirt bike decided to fall off the hitch carrier and climb through the back window to say hello to me! :bike_rider:

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-26-08%20Whiplash%20Firebird/IMG_1289.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-26-08%20Whiplash%20Firebird/IMG_1225.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/5-10-08%20Prescott%20Trailer%20Testing/Prescotttrailertesting167.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/5-10-08%20Prescott%20Trailer%20Testing/Prescotttrailertesting166.jpg

FourByLand
05-14-2008, 02:42 AM
Looks great Tim!

The HIDs look great too!

How are they holding up???

:safari-rig:

SOAZ
05-14-2008, 02:49 PM
Looks great Tim!

The HIDs look great too!

How are they holding up???

:safari-rig:
thanks.

So far so good. Man they are bright!:yikes:

flyingwil
05-15-2008, 05:07 AM
Looks great Tim! Did you ever find a fridge?

SOAZ
05-15-2008, 02:26 PM
Looks great Tim! Did you ever find a fridge?

I think so. A waeco cf-50, I need to get the warranty work done to fix the 12 volt though.
:jump:

SOAZ
06-03-2008, 05:52 PM
Looks great Tim! Did you ever find a fridge?

Well, I thought I was going to have to fix the 12volt, but for whatever reason the 12volt hookup just likes my 4runner.
I now have a Waeco CF-50. Thank you Expeditions West!
Now I need to build a draw system around it!

I also modified my 4runner's system to keep the 12Volt outlets on constantly to run the fridge. This fridge has a built in cut off if it senses the battery power getting low. Similar to a built in battery brain.

I also disabled the VSC system. Whenever offroad this system is the bane of my existance. Beeping and pulsing and cutting power anytime there is slippage by the wheels. Instead of having to lock the center diff to get rid of it. I can now just hit a button to turn VSC, ATRAC and ABS off.
This is great to me because offroad I hate ABS, VSC and I don't need ATRAC with my dual locker set up.

Now I can slide a bit around corners and when I hit the brakes they actually brake, which is nice. One just has to know how to let off if they lock up and start to slide. :)

Next mod tonight will be installing my Group 31 GIANT battery which has about twice the power and amp hours of my Yellow top OPTIMA. I'll also be installing the custom Adventure Trailer battery tray to hold it. Clean unit and great idea AT. Thank you again Expeditions West! To top it off I'm going to keep it simple and reliable by adding a battery brain to disconnect all power if the battery voltage level ever gets near to a minimal starting power!

Pics and more info to come!

Bighead
06-03-2008, 07:01 PM
What brand battery did you decide to go with? Do you have a link for the battery hold-down you mentioned? I've been on the look-out for something to replace my 7 year old Red Top.

SOAZ
06-03-2008, 08:27 PM
What brand battery did you decide to go with? Do you have a link for the battery hold-down you mentioned? I've been on the look-out for something to replace my 7 year old Red Top.

Its a group 31... I better check I think its an enersys which makes the odyssey and sears platinum. I gotta check that though. It was a very lightly used model that Expeditions West had.
The Battery Tray is from Adventure Trailers. I'll see if Martyn or Mario have a pic up on their site.

SOAZ
06-04-2008, 09:37 PM
Sleeping Platform and drawer system

I'm going to be selling my SLEEPING PLATFORM and drawer system.

It consists of a tan SUV Cargo Caddy. Two padded sleeping platforms that connect together. There is a fold out leg on the front section.
You can see pics earlier in this thread. Shoot me a PM if interested. I'll be posting it in the normal Classifieds if no one is interested.

tclong
06-05-2008, 01:25 AM
so does this mean the tent is very comfortable for a 3- 5 day camping trip. and how locg does it take to set up in the evening

SOAZ
06-05-2008, 02:44 AM
If I had to live out of my car, the RTT is comfortable enough that I wouldn't worry about the comfort. Its really that cushy to me.
:camping:

ttora4runner
06-05-2008, 02:45 AM
Sleeping Platform and drawer system

I'm going to be selling my SLEEPING PLATFORM and drawer system.

It consists of a tan SUV Cargo Caddy. Two padded sleeping platforms that connect together. There is a fold out leg on the front section.
You can see pics earlier in this thread. Shoot me a PM if interested. I'll be posting it in the normal Classifieds if no one is interested.


:confused: hummmm

SOAZ
06-05-2008, 03:06 AM
:confused: hummmm

The whole package $250.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/4-1-074Peaks001.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem006-1.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem005-1.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem004.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Drawersystem003-1.jpg

Ric
06-05-2008, 04:59 AM
nicely done, set up alot like mine, i love it, hold alot of stuff, no need for a tent, i HATE setting them up and taking them down, lol

SOAZ
06-05-2008, 03:43 PM
nicely done, set up alot like mine, i love it, hold alot of stuff, no need for a tent, i HATE setting them up and taking them down, lol
Me too! I love pulling into a camp site long after the other campers and they're hard at work setting stuff up. Danica and I jump out of the front seats, into the back to our awaiting bed all ready to go and fall asleep. I can see the jealousy in my neighbors eyes. Hehe!

Ric
06-05-2008, 03:52 PM
Me too! I love pulling into a camp site long after the other campers and they're hard at work setting stuff up. Danica and I jump out of the front seats, into the back to our awaiting bed all ready to go and fall asleep. I can see the jealousy in my neighbors eyes. Hehe!
lol thats awesome, if i can find my pics, ill show ya mine, but its set up alot like yours, but my top goes to about an inch from the sides, and the sides fold up, also have a storage way in the front. let look for the pics.

Ric
06-05-2008, 04:01 PM
heres a couple:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a47/Ric4rnr/Misc%202007/Cargo%20Box/IMG_0456.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a47/Ric4rnr/Misc%202007/Cargo%20Box/IMG_0448.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a47/Ric4rnr/Misc%202007/Cargo%20Box/IMG_0432.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a47/Ric4rnr/Misc%202007/Cargo%20Box/IMG_0434.jpg
I love the idea, simple, easy to get to stuff, NO TENT NEEDED, lol
Im hoping to redo my rear bumper, adding a tirecarrier, then getting a Oasis compressor, and tank, mount them where the spare went.

SOAZ
06-05-2008, 04:31 PM
VERY nice. I love all of the storage dividers. With a fridge in the back now I have transitioned to a Roof Top Tent because the lack of room!
I'm going to build a drawer system with water storage, a stove, compressed air and the fridge on the side. Should be fun! :26_7_2:

Ric
06-05-2008, 08:30 PM
thankx, I got a buddy that built his out of aluminum, and he has a fridge, its behind the front passenger seat, works well, if i can get a pic of it, ill post it.

SOAZ
06-05-2008, 08:42 PM
thankx, I got a buddy that built his out of aluminum, and he has a fridge, its behind the front passenger seat, works well, if i can get a pic of it, ill post it.

Cool! Please do. I'm in the designing faze!

Now I just need some front and rear bumpers like yours. ; )

Scott Brady
06-05-2008, 09:32 PM
]Thank you again Expeditions West!

You are very welcome Tim, we are honored to support you guys.

Ric
06-06-2008, 03:03 AM
Cool! Please do. I'm in the designing faze!

Now I just need some front and rear bumpers like yours. ; )
thankx for the compliments.
heres a few pics of my buddies Fridge:
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/Rix4rnr/2008%20MISC/IMG_3262.jpg
And here to the right, you can see his mattress, quote from him "the fridge sticking up is just the right height to shape the mattress into a pillow"
http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd139/Rix4rnr/2008%20MISC/IMG_3264.jpg

SOAZ
06-06-2008, 03:20 PM
That's really clean! I like it! I think I should just cut the roof off my 4runner and make it into a pop top camper.:oops:
That would cost a ton and there is no way I'm trying that myself though! Someday!

Ric
06-06-2008, 04:51 PM
yea he is cazy about perfection, you can see where the peices come together, well you pull it up, and he has every tool you can think of secured under there, very well thought out.
he removed the rear seats, since doesnt need them, I need mine, lol.

SOAZ
06-06-2008, 07:09 PM
yea he is cazy about perfection, you can see where the peices come together, well you pull it up, and he has every tool you can think of secured under there, very well thought out.
he removed the rear seats, since doesnt need them, I need mine, lol.

Ha, I keep my rear seats down so much its basically like I drive an enclosed pickup truck. Except when people are visiting. I still like the ability to throw some poor souls back there for some offroading. :D

I forget, what is your rear shock set-up? My 5100's are about dead and I'm contemplating a weekend of welding to put some bilstein 7100, 10 inch travel, short bodies up to an under "bed" bar.

SOAZ
06-10-2008, 04:45 PM
The new timing belt is done along with the rest of the belts, the thermostat and the waterpump. Threw in some new Toyota Red coolant and its all good. The notorious tacoma/4runner squeek left with the old belts as well which is nice for my piece of mind!

Last night I installed the GIANT group 31 battery with some cable extensions from checkers. Its a very tight fit! I used the ADVENTURE TRAILERS battery tray and the LIFELINE battery that they use.
The truck started up nice and quick!
Pics to come soon!

FourByLand
06-10-2008, 05:17 PM
Very nice, Tim... glad to hear everything went superb.

Looking forward to the pics!

:smiley_drive:

SOAZ
06-11-2008, 05:02 AM
Here we go. Out with the old Yellow top.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/62956647.jpg
This can give you an idea of the space left over.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/bfaf1c12.jpg
Life line battery in:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/3ed8f907.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/321693c5.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/578f14e0.jpg

Mounting the BATTERY BRAIN:
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/1ceb843d.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/6022ecb4.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/f2e421dd.jpg

SOAZ
06-11-2008, 05:39 AM
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_1313.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/IMG_1317.jpg

ntsqd
06-11-2008, 01:27 PM
Now about that temporary battery holder.........
:)

SOAZ
06-11-2008, 02:32 PM
Now about that temporary battery holder.........
:)
DOH!!!
I knew someone would notice!
I'm trying to figure out how to get the AT battery holder to fit!
The factory battery holder won't work either. Its too high and the hood won't close.

SOoo, looks like I'll be making my own out of steel... :peepwall:

dirt4dinner
06-11-2008, 04:02 PM
Tim,
I can't believe what you have done to your 4Runner since I last saw you on the short Sunflower trip. It's a DIFFERENT TRUCK! I have been shopping non-stop for a new rear bumper since I tanked my trailer hitch hard out in Box Canyon this weekend (I called and left you a message on the way out of there).
Give me a call man, I want to do something with the rear bumper, and what you did looks nice! I have beer...and cash, for whoever did yours! Come on man...I'm a charity case when it comes to the 4Runner, all knowledgeable TIM!

SOAZ
06-11-2008, 04:38 PM
Tim,
I can't believe what you have done to your 4Runner since I last saw you on the short Sunflower trip. It's a DIFFERENT TRUCK! I have been shopping non-stop for a new rear bumper since I tanked my trailer hitch hard out in Box Canyon this weekend (I called and left you a message on the way out of there).
Give me a call man, I want to do something with the rear bumper, and what you did looks nice! I have beer...and cash, for whoever did yours! Come on man...I'm a charity case when it comes to the 4Runner, all knowledgeable TIM!

HA! Whats up buddy!
I got a missed call, but no message came through!
I built it up at my buddies down in Tucson.
I'll put you in touch with him!
In the meantime look into the trailer hitch "flip" as its called. ZONA4rnr has done it and it saves about 4 inches on the departure angle.

dirt4dinner
06-11-2008, 05:36 PM
You have a link for that flipped hitch? I can't find that user in the user list, or via google search.

ttora4runner
06-11-2008, 07:36 PM
Thread Jack

What about a straight pull trailer hitch.

111db
06-29-2008, 03:19 PM
You have a link for that flipped hitch? I can't find that user in the user list, or via google search.

Try this: http://yotatech.com/f2/flipping-hitch-97732/


Speaking of bumpers, I sense a disturbance in the force...

SOAZ
06-30-2008, 03:32 AM
The force is strong with you Jon.



















:)

111db
06-30-2008, 01:05 PM
haha the Schwartz maybe!! Quit rhubarbin' around and show the goods!

SOAZ
06-30-2008, 02:20 PM
It's shy. I'll see if it want to show some pics later today!

SOAZ
06-30-2008, 04:16 PM
I took this one with my magical phone. Pretty great pic, I know.

weezerbot
06-30-2008, 05:11 PM
Very cool Tim, we were with Lance when you sent it out to his phone but I'm glad to finally see it on a bigger screen. Looks good!:)

jeffryscott
06-30-2008, 09:23 PM
that looks sharp Tim .... :)

SOAZ
06-30-2008, 10:00 PM
Very cool Tim, we were with Lance when you sent it out to his phone but I'm glad to finally see it on a bigger screen. Looks good!:)

Haha! I'm so excited. Anyone need anything winched?

SOAZ
06-30-2008, 10:00 PM
that looks sharp Tim .... :)

Thanks again Jeff.

1leglance
06-30-2008, 11:36 PM
your setup is getting nicer and nicer everyday....
now we just need to set a weekend to go out and do some camping...august? get out of the heat & humidity?

SOAZ
06-30-2008, 11:51 PM
your setup is getting nicer and nicer everyday....
now we just need to set a weekend to go out and do some camping...august? get out of the heat & humidity?

Sounds good to me. Those white mountains need some exploring done!

ttora4runner
07-01-2008, 04:51 AM
What's next??

SOAZ
07-01-2008, 04:45 PM
trips, just lots of trips.
Maybe a skid plate.

ttora4runner
07-01-2008, 08:46 PM
trips, just lots of trips.
Maybe a skid plate.


I might be selling one:(

Have to see.

SOAZ
07-01-2008, 09:12 PM
I might be selling one:(

Have to see.

Sorry to hear it unless its for a good reason. :(

weezerbot
12-14-2008, 06:41 AM
What no updates!! ;)

Tim I'm curious what CB you are using that fit into the ashtray.

I also have a question for all of you building the awesome sleeping platforms....what do you to with the extra top part that goes on top of the rear seats when they fold down? How are you storing that extra piece?

I really dig the one with the fridge....any idea what fridge that is exactly?

SOAZ
12-14-2008, 04:43 PM
What no updates!! ;)

Tim I'm curious what CB you are using that fit into the ashtray.

I also have a question for all of you building the awesome sleeping platforms....what do you to with the extra top part that goes on top of the rear seats when they fold down? How are you storing that extra piece?

I really dig the one with the fridge....any idea what fridge that is exactly?

Lets see. I think midland, uniden, and cobra make units that fit perfectly into the ashtray. OR you can do the remote mount cobra cb!

I used to just leave the front part of the bed set up when we went camping. :oops:
I did make it so when I needed to I could just stack the front section on top of the rear section. It worked out well!
Here is an updated pics! :)

oops, also my HAM radio was changed out to a 75w ICV8000 Icom.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/ARS%20mapping%2008/Lastfewmonths08070.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/ARS%20mapping%2008/Lastfewmonths08006.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/ARS%20mapping%2008/Lastfewmonths08020.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/ARS%20mapping%2008/Lastfewmonths08012.jpg

weezerbot
12-14-2008, 08:26 PM
Thanks Tim...we have the remote Cobra 75 in the FJ and its a POS....we have known at least 6 people not counting ourselves in which the speaker in it has fried in less than 6 months.

I think I'm going with the Uniden.....

Overland Hadley
12-14-2008, 09:43 PM
Tim,

What size wheels and tires do you have on your 4runner? They look really good.

SOAZ
12-14-2008, 10:43 PM
Tim,

What size wheels and tires do you have on your 4runner? They look really good.

Thanks Hadley!

Le classique! 255-85-16's on 16x7.5 TRD Special Edition FJ rims.

TacoTraveler
12-14-2008, 11:06 PM
Le classique! 255-85-16's on 16x7.5 TRD Special Edition FJ rims.

What is the backspacing on those rims?

xcmountain80
12-14-2008, 11:30 PM
Probably near 5.25" according to my research.


Aaron

SOAZ
12-14-2008, 11:43 PM
What is the backspacing on those rims?

The backspacing didn't move the wheel out at all or very little so I'd guess similar to 4.5.
Checking now...
The internet says 4.5
That would be my feeling for them. The tire seemed to stick out just a hair more, but that would be accounted for in the extra .5 in diameter of the wheel.

xcmountain80
12-15-2008, 12:05 AM
But they are TRD wheels aren't they? And according to a guy that had em your looking at closer to 5". This is the whole reason I didn't go with them from the beginning and stuck with my Limited wheels with 1" spacers. Though I've been wrong before.

Aaron

SOAZ
12-15-2008, 12:43 AM
But they are TRD wheels aren't they? And according to a guy that had em your looking at closer to 5". This is the whole reason I didn't go with them from the beginning and stuck with my Limited wheels with 1" spacers. Though I've been wrong before.

Aaron

Not sure. The weird thing is that if they were 5" they should be more sucked in and if anything they moved out slightly... :(
Yo muy confusa. Aye yaye yaye!

xcmountain80
12-15-2008, 12:47 AM
Well like I said I could be wrong soooo either pull it and measure or if your not running into any issues call it a day, either way it looks really good.

Aaron

jeff_wright
12-15-2008, 01:41 AM
Tim,
Where did you get your "battery brain" and what does it entail?

SOAZ
12-15-2008, 03:03 AM
Well like I said I could be wrong soooo either pull it and measure or if your not running into any issues call it a day, either way it looks really good.

Aaron

Who knows. We'll just let some FJ expert come along and prove us both wrong. :oops:

SOAZ
12-15-2008, 03:07 AM
Tim,
Where did you get your "battery brain" and what does it entail?

Check out their site. Just google battery brain.
Basically its a simple low voltage cut-off. I didn't need a dual battery set-up really. I just transitioned to a giant group 31 battery. (equivalent to TWO normal yellow top Optimas) Then I wired the Battery Brain onto the positive lead. It will trip, and shut off all power when it senses a low charge leaving enough power for you to reset it, and start the car when you get back to it.

Pretty trick little sucker for how cheap it is. The more expensive battery brains just have convenience features like a remote reseter, remote disconnect (for security when parking it) etc.

fabjunkie
12-17-2008, 07:19 PM
Tim, the truck looks good. Changed a bit since the last time I saw it. Happy trails! Hit me up if you come to Denver.

JJackson
12-18-2008, 04:15 AM
Thanks Tim...we have the remote Cobra 75 in the FJ and its a POS....we have known at least 6 people not counting ourselves in which the speaker in it has fried in less than 6 months.

I think I'm going with the Uniden.....

A few of the taco guys are running Uniden 520 XL's, I suggest a separate speaker as well. The fit snugly into the ashtray location, I used sticky backed velcro to secure it, think I saw it done on a few others as well.

weezerbot
12-18-2008, 04:48 AM
A few of the taco guys are running Uniden 520 XL's, I suggest a separate speaker as well. The fit snugly into the ashtray location, I used sticky backed velcro to secure it, think I saw it done on a few others as well.

Yep thats exactly what I ordered! Now I just need Wil to help me install the speaker into the headliner! Ohhhhh Wil......:peepwall:

SOAZ
12-18-2008, 10:22 PM
Yep thats exactly what I ordered! Now I just need Wil to help me install the speaker into the headliner! Ohhhhh Wil......:peepwall:

Doh! That will be a good one to see installed. I use an external speaker on my ham (just for when we're at a race so I can close the doors to keep the dust out and still hear), but my cb is loud enough without one on the inside anyway.

RocKrawler
12-31-2008, 07:19 PM
Who knows. We'll just let some FJ expert come along and prove us both wrong. :oops:

Hello, FJ expert here - 4.84" backspacing - so yes, you are both wrong, but thats OK, we're all here to learn right?

TCao on FJCF did OMF beadlock conversions on his, came out very sweet.
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o114/TVCao/My%20FJ%20Cruiser/tires%20and%20wheels/trdomf5.jpg?t=1211168527

http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o114/TVCao/My%20FJ%20Cruiser/tires%20and%20wheels/trdomf9.jpg?t=1211168864

http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o114/TVCao/My%20FJ%20Cruiser/tires%20and%20wheels/trdomf3.jpg?t=1211168914

I have the same plans for mine if my 06 Tacoma Prerunner doesnt sell or trade for a 3rd gen 4 Runner & I end up converting it to 4x4. I was looking for the same grey finish but the silver ones I got so cheap I couldnt pass them up. Came out pretty nice IMO

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t133/terryabaker/AVICD3016-1.jpg

xcmountain80
01-01-2009, 03:41 AM
Dang 4.84" huh , well those are out for me as I Need something like 3.5" or 3.75 and maybe 4" at the max.

Aaron

SOAZ
01-12-2009, 08:42 PM
Okay, I've been working hard to get back to basics. I've been building a sleeping and storage platform again.
I made a lot of changes this time to maximize space, make it look like I want etc.

Here are all of the pieces in place and not yet stained.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/e27961c2.jpg
Storage under one of the side flaps.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/adc3b8f3.jpg
Compartmentalized the inside of one drawer for smaller items.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/a8b2ab2f.jpg
Massive amount of storage in the front section. The incline looks a lot steeper than it really is in this picture.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/e50de061.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/bcaa8101.jpg

All done. Stained and ready for my 4" memory foam mattress.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/e7989206.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/d3ea91bc.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/de20a9ca.jpg

weezerbot
01-12-2009, 09:27 PM
Tim, I love it...when are you helping me build mine? :elkgrin: That a project for down the road, BUT I'm curious where you are putting your fridge? Or is it totally fried? That the biggest tumbling block for me right now and this set up....where to put the fridge and still have a sleeping platform?

SOAZ
01-12-2009, 10:03 PM
Tim, I love it...when are you helping me build mine? :elkgrin: That a project for down the road, BUT I'm curious where you are putting your fridge? Or is it totally fried? That the biggest tumbling block for me right now and this set up....where to put the fridge and still have a sleeping platform?

It would go just behind the front seats. I will cut a notch out for it from the platform to stick through just a bit.
Thats all IF it ever works again. A DAN FOSS control module just came from Aus today. It looks like a pain in the MMM to install so I may not know if it solved it until tomorrow. Doh!!

Whitey
01-12-2009, 10:03 PM
Does it flip up to utilize the back seats, or is it rigid?

xcmountain80
01-12-2009, 10:04 PM
Nix platform spring for RTT and keep the fridge in the back :elkgrin:

Aaron

SOAZ
01-12-2009, 10:04 PM
Does it flip up to utilize the back seats, or is it rigid?

Its in two pieces. The last pic shows it installed to the point where the rear seats can be utilized. For trips I take out the seat bottoms and backs to utilize more space.
I may just leave out the rear seats permanently. I use it like a truck except that I can access the back of the truck internally, rather than a truck with a shell.

SOAZ
01-12-2009, 10:06 PM
Nix platform spring for RTT and keep the fridge in the back :elkgrin:

Aaron

I actually got rid of my RTT for this.
I was amazed at the level of trails I could no longer do, or would still do, but lift a wheel or nearly flip when I had it.
Weight up high = bad.

Plus, I like stealth camping.

weezerbot
01-12-2009, 11:08 PM
It would go just behind the front seats. I will cut a notch out for it from the platform to stick through just a bit.
Thats all IF it ever works again. A DAN FOSS control module just came from Aus today. It looks like a pain in the MMM to install so I may not know if it solved it until tomorrow. Doh!!

I'm interested to see how that works out. I'm still debating if I want to add all the extra space plus weight for drawers or just throw everything into a tub and roll out the thermarest for sleeping. I'm pretty sure it will just be me and the dog at most sleeping in there since the R2-mobile is still the ultimate camping machine. :sombrero:

ttora4runner
01-12-2009, 11:14 PM
When was the last time you cleaned the interior. HaHa.......JK



Platform and drawer setup looks good.

xcmountain80
01-12-2009, 11:19 PM
I actually got rid of my RTT for this.
I was amazed at the level of trails I could no longer do, or would still do, but lift a wheel or nearly flip when I had it.
Weight up high = bad.

Plus, I like stealth camping.

Man I've never had that problem, but bigger wheels and more armor might aid in the offset. I have to many folks in my party to even consider stealth camping.

Aaron

SOAZ
01-13-2009, 12:17 AM
I'm interested to see how that works out. I'm still debating if I want to add all the extra space plus weight for drawers or just throw everything into a tub and roll out the thermarest for sleeping. I'm pretty sure it will just be me and the dog at most sleeping in there since the R2-mobile is still the ultimate camping machine. :sombrero:

It worked well when we had it before. This one is functionally the same, but refined a bit more to get some more storage space etc.
We may just have to go out and camp this week just for fun to test it out. I got the 4 in mattress in the mail today. Just need to trim it down to fit.

SOAZ
01-13-2009, 12:19 AM
Man I've never had that problem, but bigger wheels and more armor might aid in the offset. I have to many folks in my party to even consider stealth camping.

Aaron

I think the wheels make a big difference. What other armor do you have?
Right now i just have the front bumper, budbuilts, and almost nothing for a rear bumper. (single tube I bent up for the rear)


When was the last time you cleaned the interior. HaHa.......JK



Platform and drawer setup looks good.

Thanks T. I think I gave up now that I offroad for a living!

ExploringNH
01-13-2009, 12:22 AM
I actually got rid of my RTT for this.
I was amazed at the level of trails I could no longer do, or would still do, but lift a wheel or nearly flip when I had it.
Weight up high = bad.


I agree. I had a 33" tire up on the roof rack for a long time. I'm pretty well weighted down with armor/bumpers and it was very tippy compared to not having it up there. I don't think Ill be putting anything up there unless its for a long trip where wheeling isn't likely to happen.

xcmountain80
01-13-2009, 01:33 AM
Tires on the roof while cool are a PIA when they grow over 31". You chance throwing out your back dent your rig or remove a window in your rig. I have been on some interestingly steep trails but never noticed the tippy as much as perhaps I should. The RTT weighs roughly 135+ lbs. I'm running budbuilts as well sliders and each wheel 295 and 5 star 16" weigh about 75lbs. ea. Not to mention the large bag of tools that lives in the truck dual batteries, freezer fridge and God only knows what else.

Aaron

SOAZ
01-13-2009, 04:35 AM
I agree. I had a 33" tire up on the roof rack for a long time. I'm pretty well weighted down with armor/bumpers and it was very tippy compared to not having it up there. I don't think Ill be putting anything up there unless its for a long trip where wheeling isn't likely to happen.
I concur. The less up top the better unless its necessary. :sombrero:


Tires on the roof while cool are a PIA when they grow over 31". You chance throwing out your back dent your rig or remove a window in your rig. I have been on some interestingly steep trails but never noticed the tippy as much as perhaps I should. The RTT weighs roughly 135+ lbs. I'm running budbuilts as well sliders and each wheel 295 and 5 star 16" weigh about 75lbs. ea. Not to mention the large bag of tools that lives in the truck dual batteries, freezer fridge and God only knows what else.

Aaron
Sounds like you carry a lot of crap like me. sliders, almost every hand tool I own, giant battery, my waeco, the bed platform, recovery crap etc.
Its amazing how much all of it weighs. I made the mistake of weighing my snatch block. Oh crap, that right there is another TON of weight. DOH! haha. Oh well, all of this crap amounts to so much fun I'm not going to worry about it too much. :elkgrin:

ExploringNH
01-13-2009, 10:09 AM
Tires on the roof while cool are a PIA when they grow over 31". You chance throwing out your back dent your rig or remove a window in your rig.

Aaron

I dont know if this is hijacking the thread or not, and sorry if it is, but I always hear about people having trouble taking the tire down and wanted to share my tip.

To get the tire up on the roof, Stand directly behind the truck. Take the tire and lift it up so that it is vertical on your chest and the weight is resting on your forearms. Getting it off the ground is the hardest part. Now, you can kind of shimmy it up if you arent strong enough to just lift it and get it to touch the black wind/rain deflector thing above the rear glass. I dont know its purpose, but its very sturdy. Use that to slide the tire up and it will tip into the basket. Now, just stand on the sliders or open a door and stand inside and flip it over the rest of the way. To get it out, repeat the process in reverse.

Probably hard to follow, but it works for me. Takes very little strength and is pretty safe.

SOAZ
01-23-2009, 12:00 AM
Building a rear bumper this week.

Just trying to get the main beam high enough to get an idea of where it will sit.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Rearbumper001.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Rearbumper005.jpg

Beginning the wings.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Rearbumper011.jpg

Initial part of the wings. They will look different when completed.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Rearbumper012.jpg

xcmountain80
01-23-2009, 12:20 AM
I dont know if this is hijacking the thread or not, and sorry if it is, but I always hear about people having trouble taking the tire down and wanted to share my tip.

To get the tire up on the roof, Stand directly behind the truck. Take the tire and lift it up so that it is vertical on your chest and the weight is resting on your forearms. Getting it off the ground is the hardest part. Now, you can kind of shimmy it up if you arent strong enough to just lift it and get it to touch the black wind/rain deflector thing above the rear glass. I dont know its purpose, but its very sturdy. Use that to slide the tire up and it will tip into the basket. Now, just stand on the sliders or open a door and stand inside and flip it over the rest of the way. To get it out, repeat the process in reverse.

Probably hard to follow, but it works for me. Takes very little strength and is pretty safe.
Yep that how I got my old one on and off it got old. I won't roof mount again unless absolutely necessary.

Aaron

ttora4runner
01-23-2009, 12:56 AM
Building a rear bumper this week.

Just trying to get the main beam high enough to get an idea of where it will sit.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Rearbumper001.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Rearbumper005.jpg

Beginning the wings.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Rearbumper011.jpg

Initial part of the wings. They will look different when completed.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/Rearbumper012.jpg



Looks like that's going to be great build. Are you going to have a tire, fuel/water carrier on the back of it?

weezerbot
01-23-2009, 01:38 AM
Looks cool Tim but I thought we were driving to Colorado together to get Irbis bumpers! :Wow1:

SOAZ
01-23-2009, 03:02 AM
Looks like that's going to be great build. Are you going to have a tire, fuel/water carrier on the back of it?

Nope. I want to keep my tire low. Its going to go in the stock location, but the bumper needs to be further out than stock to accommodate a full size spare.


Looks cool Tim but I thought we were driving to Colorado together to get Irbis bumpers! :Wow1:

:)
I need money to do that! :elkgrin::elkgrin:

weezerbot
01-23-2009, 03:26 AM
I need money to do that! :elkgrin::elkgrin:

I hear that! I'll be saving for that bumper for a loooong time!

xcmountain80
01-23-2009, 03:38 PM
Nope. I want to keep my tire low. Its going to go in the stock location, but the bumper needs to be further out than stock to accommodate a full size spare.



:)
I need money to do that! :elkgrin::elkgrin:

MY 295 fits in the stock location just fine, well OK not just fine it isn't aired up but I have on board air so that's not an issue. And it does rub the pan hard bar, but other than that it's fine. I Keep going back and forth "to rear tire carrier or not to rear tire carrier" while they look cool are the functional? I know Steve from Sonoran Steel went back to stock location for simplicity. If you can build a rear that maintains stock position of the spare and protects t by having raised (underside case "lower") slide rails this could be ok. I had fantisized about a spare fuel cell that would live in the spares location but sheesh the weight I already have plus a bumper plus rear mounted spare acting as a weighted pry bar and more fuel I dunno if the mpg's can lose any more not to mention power from all the extra crap. Irbis makes non TC (tire carrier) models now and I was thinking hard about it.

Aaron

CYi5
01-23-2009, 05:34 PM
Some individuals who have gotten the rear carriers say it isn't worth the hassle and isn't that much better. It looks cramped underneath my truck with the stock size, I can't image a 295 under there! I think a rear bumper with swing outs for water and fuel with your spare underneath is the best solution imo.

FourByLand
01-23-2009, 06:16 PM
Looks great Tim!

Can't wait to see the finished product and the new wheel and tire combo!

xcmountain80
01-24-2009, 01:39 AM
I swear I'm not hijacking but heres what mine looks like and it will totally depend on the rear hitch you have as to what will fit under there.
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/4Runner/Tires%20and%20Wheels/P1230304.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/4Runner/Tires%20and%20Wheels/P1230305.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/4Runner/Tires%20and%20Wheels/P1230306.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/4Runner/Tires%20and%20Wheels/P1230307.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/4Runner/Tires%20and%20Wheels/P1230308.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/4Runner/Tires%20and%20Wheels/P1230309.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e31/xcmountain/4Runner/Tires%20and%20Wheels/P1230310.jpg

Aaron

weezerbot
01-24-2009, 06:50 AM
So here is my main concern about a rear tire carrier...what if you get into a situation out on the trail that you need to change your tire...and you are stuck in something or somewhere that the spare under your truck is obstructed by something...mud, rock, water, whatever. Wouldn't it be a hell of a lot easier to just pull it off the back of your rear bumper and be done with it? Maybe I've spent too much time in the FJ with that convenience but it seems worth it to me.

JJackson
01-24-2009, 04:06 PM
So here is my main concern about a rear tire carrier...what if you get into a situation out on the trail that you need to change your tire...and you are stuck in something or somewhere that the spare under your truck is obstructed by something...mud, rock, water, whatever. Wouldn't it be a hell of a lot easier to just pull it off the back of your rear bumper and be done with it? Maybe I've spent too much time in the FJ with that convenience but it seems worth it to me.

Well hopefully it's the rear tire that is flat and you need to jack it up anyway. :ylsmoke:

SOAZ
01-26-2009, 04:48 AM
No worries, your not hijacking at all. I did the deflated thing too. It rubbed less, but I just started hearing some noises when froading so I figured I'd just keep it inside to be safe. AND it made a great excuse to replace my dented and beat up rear bumper. :sombrero:

Heidi,
In so many thousands of miles of offroad racing and froading etc (I'm not saying I'm any stud, just giving a basis for my opinion that comes next),
and I've NEVER, in all that time had to change a tire or help someone else change one. I've plugged the crap out of a ton of tires though. Sometimes 5 in the sidewall just to get it to hold air. I would almost rather not carry a spare at all, but that would be less than smart. In fact it would almost certainly cause me to have a catostrophic flat.

Oh! hold that thought, I did see a guy change a flat one. Rock crawler guy and the sidewall cut was about 5 inches long. So there ya go.
All that brain vomit was just to say that I'm not worried about the tire being hard to get to. I'm in no hurry offroad, unless its a race. :elkgrin:

The bumper is done. It was a MMMMM. If someone asked me to build one I'd ask for double what the irbis one goes for. Seriously. It really is that much work. In the same time we cut out just under a hundred framing trusses for a local contractor. It was almost no effort and it paid better. Honestly, if your a fabricator, you must have a sick love of pain and being poor. Thats why my buddy whose house i build all of this stuff at sold his shop and now just build stuff for fun and extra cash. I'm just trying to say, if you see good quality fabrication, pay up and be happy you can. Building it sucks.


....it sure is rewarding though! Good times!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :coffeedrink:


MY 295 fits in the stock location just fine, well OK not just fine it isn't aired up but I have on board air so that's not an issue. And it does rub the pan hard bar, but other than that it's fine. I Keep going back and forth "to rear tire carrier or not to rear tire carrier" while they look cool are the functional? I know Steve from Sonoran Steel went back to stock location for simplicity. If you can build a rear that maintains stock position of the spare and protects t by having raised (underside case "lower") slide rails this could be ok. I had fantisized about a spare fuel cell that would live in the spares location but sheesh the weight I already have plus a bumper plus rear mounted spare acting as a weighted pry bar and more fuel I dunno if the mpg's can lose any more not to mention power from all the extra crap. Irbis makes non TC (tire carrier) models now and I was thinking hard about it.

Aaron

jeffryscott
01-26-2009, 12:46 PM
so, where are the pics? c'mon Tim :coffeedrink: Good deal that its done.

xcmountain80
01-26-2009, 12:48 PM
Yep I had a local fab guy take a look at what I wanted and I told him what I could purchase one similar for and he just looked at me and said yep thats a deal. It would have cost almost double an Irbis bumper. I'm thinking of going a Irbis bumper with side protection and no tire carrier.

Aaron

SOAZ
01-26-2009, 11:02 PM
metal etching primer.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/TucsonBumperweek004.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/TucsonBumperweek017.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/TucsonBumperweek016.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/TucsonBumperweek018.jpg

xcmountain80
01-26-2009, 11:49 PM
What kind of bike is in the back? BTW that looks freaking awesome, what are you planning for the plastic trim?

Aaron

ttora4runner
01-27-2009, 12:23 AM
BTW that looks freaking awesome, what are you planning for the plastic trim?

Aaron


What he said. Sweet.

WhereTheHellIsJames?
01-27-2009, 12:38 AM
Dang Tim- that bumper looks great! Any idea what the final weight in came out to be?

MontanaBBQ
01-27-2009, 01:05 AM
That looks great!

I'm diggin' the black steel wheels too.

BLKNBLU
01-27-2009, 01:21 AM
That looks great!

I'm diggin' the black steel wheels too.Yeah. What happened to the bling turd wheels?

jeffryscott
01-27-2009, 01:31 AM
very cool looking bumper Tim - the work was well worth it. Thanks for the pics ...:victory:

SOAZ
01-27-2009, 01:53 AM
Dang Tim- that bumper looks great! Any idea what the final weight in came out to be?
I don't want to find answers to questions I'm afraid to hear the answers to. :elkgrin:


That looks great!

I'm diggin' the black steel wheels too.
Thanks. I like the new non bling look


Yeah. What happened to the bling turd wheels?
I cried too much from you making fun of them. :Wow1:
Is that rockcrawler of yours done yet? :victory::wings:


very cool looking bumper Tim - the work was well worth it. Thanks for the pics ...:victory:
Thanks Jeff. I look forward to your trucks, rebuild!


What kind of bike is in the back? BTW that looks freaking awesome, what are you planning for the plastic trim?

Aaron
Thats my santa cruz blur. Not sure yet. I am going to add a bit of a trim piece, like door trim to fill a bit of the gap between the body and the bumper and if It seals the look then I'll keep it. Otherwise it goes and a piece of aluminum will go in its place.


Oh yah! as you may have noticed. No swing away fuel can holder. Thats for the next trip down. Shouldn't take too long. :coffeedrink:

ttora4runner
01-27-2009, 02:02 AM
Now bring it down to Yuma. HeHeHe

BLKNBLU
01-27-2009, 03:09 AM
Is that rockcrawler of yours done yet? :victory::wings:




uh...er...um. No. :o

weezerbot
01-27-2009, 03:12 AM
Looks awesome Tim!!!

SOAZ
01-27-2009, 03:57 AM
What kind of bike is in the back? BTW that looks freaking awesome, what are you planning for the plastic trim?

Aaron

speaking of the bike. Here is the ride I did today just before I took that last pic of the truck.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2586128073412201345

4Rescue
01-27-2009, 06:12 AM
Great truck man, it's really coming along eh.


speaking of the bike. Here is the ride I did today just before I took that last pic of the truck.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2586128073412201345

-Hijack On-

Wow... :wings: That trail looks fun man. :wings: GREAT vid too, really nice and steady, both cams. I haven't ridden in terrain like that (Open desert'y and DRY) for a few years. I LOVED the chutes section, there were about a million little natural hips in there I'd LOVE to hit as well as that neat rocky area after you give the thumbs up... but SOAZ man, you need a shorter stem mate!!!! I can see by the shadow you're got one of those XC bits that ruins you steering for a little more stretched out feel... Shorten up to a 60/50mm stem and that trail would completely change.

What are you on anyway? I can see it's interupted Seat tube, but not much else. From the shock placement I can see and imagine, it's possibly a Specialized Stump Jumper FSR or one of their other bikes??? Or am I completely off...

Great vid man, a friend of mine at the hospital just got himself a nice helmet cam for next years riding season, I hope we get some fun footage, the lucky bastard lives about a 1/4 mile from post Canyon here in Oregon up the Colombia River gorge. don't know if you've ever heard of it, but it's quite an amazing trail network, lots of Primarily FR and DH oriented, but there's MX trails, and some really big XC loops as well. All permited and ordained by the city and state wich mens nothing is getting destroyed. I know I should be stoked about the Winter and Skiing/Snowboarding, but I'm really jonesing to go out and ride some trails!!!! The prospects of getting a new frame for this year really amps me up too hehehehehe. Too bad everything is soaked and nasty up here right now...And it's freezing to boot. :elkgrin:

-Hijack Over-

Cheers

Dave

xcmountain80
01-27-2009, 12:21 PM
It's a Santa Cruz Blur per his post, I'm not sure which one or if it's just the Blur. If it is just the Blur and LT L2 ans so on the stem he has most likely 100-90mm is fine. The Blur's design was more of a marathon if you will of mountain bike, just before the All Mountain "AM" came out the "Marathon" was the temr they used to justify more travel and little more weight. I had a Santaz Cruz Superlight, but id died tragically after I added a 140mm fork ..... so now I ride a Trek Fuel EX9. I think I just hijacked in my pants.

Aaron

SOAZ
01-27-2009, 06:29 PM
Great truck man, it's really coming along eh.



-Hijack On-

Wow... :wings: That trail looks fun man. :wings: GREAT vid too, really nice and steady, both cams. I haven't ridden in terrain like that (Open desert'y and DRY) for a few years. I LOVED the chutes section, there were about a million little natural hips in there I'd LOVE to hit as well as that neat rocky area after you give the thumbs up... but SOAZ man, you need a shorter stem mate!!!! I can see by the shadow you're got one of those XC bits that ruins you steering for a little more stretched out feel... Shorten up to a 60/50mm stem and that trail would completely change.

What are you on anyway? I can see it's interupted Seat tube, but not much else. From the shock placement I can see and imagine, it's possibly a Specialized Stump Jumper FSR or one of their other bikes??? Or am I completely off...

Great vid man, a friend of mine at the hospital just got himself a nice helmet cam for next years riding season, I hope we get some fun footage, the lucky bastard lives about a 1/4 mile from post Canyon here in Oregon up the Colombia River gorge. don't know if you've ever heard of it, but it's quite an amazing trail network, lots of Primarily FR and DH oriented, but there's MX trails, and some really big XC loops as well. All permited and ordained by the city and state wich mens nothing is getting destroyed. I know I should be stoked about the Winter and Skiing/Snowboarding, but I'm really jonesing to go out and ride some trails!!!! The prospects of getting a new frame for this year really amps me up too hehehehehe. Too bad everything is soaked and nasty up here right now...And it's freezing to boot. :elkgrin:

-Hijack Over-

Cheers

Dave

haha, thanks dave. I'm down here wishing I had the cash for a trip to Mammoth or Co for some boarding. :victory:
It may be an optical illusion. I shorted the stem way up from the guy I bought it from. It was like driving a school bus before. :elkgrin: Much better now! It feels like my KTM. :bike_rider: kinda...


It's a Santa Cruz Blur per his post, I'm not sure which one or if it's just the Blur. If it is just the Blur and LT L2 ans so on the stem he has most likely 100-90mm is fine. The Blur's design was more of a marathon if you will of mountain bike, just before the All Mountain "AM" came out the "Marathon" was the temr they used to justify more travel and little more weight. I had a Santaz Cruz Superlight, but id died tragically after I added a 140mm fork ..... so now I ride a Trek Fuel EX9. I think I just hijacked in my pants.

Aaron

Whoops, Its a blur "Classique" as I like to call it. Wouldn't mind an lt or lt2, but this thing really does it all for my tastes. I wouldn't mind bribing my friend at Pivot for one of their Mach 5's or Firebirds, but then I'd need to sell my truck and sole to afford it.

Damn hijacking train robbers!! :sombrero::sombrero:

4Rescue
01-27-2009, 07:20 PM
It's a Santa Cruz Blur per his post, I'm not sure which one or if it's just the Blur. If it is just the Blur and LT L2 ans so on the stem he has most likely 100-90mm is fine. The Blur's design was more of a marathon if you will of mountain bike, just before the All Mountain "AM" came out the "Marathon" was the temr they used to justify more travel and little more weight. I had a Santaz Cruz Superlight, but id died tragically after I added a 140mm fork ..... so now I ride a Trek Fuel EX9. I think I just hijacked in my pants.

Aaron Oh I'm VERY familliar with ALL things Mountain Bike ;) Being a Classic Blur, I agree with your set-up comments, for the long haulk it'll ride more comfy over all. I'm more of a grind-up and let the big-bike loose kinda guy, my XC-esque rig is a Spec. P2 with some 4" DJ forks on it. Coming from a heavy BMX /MX background I don't run anything over a 60mm stem on any of my bikes, but that's just me.


haha, thanks dave. I'm down here wishing I had the cash for a trip to Mammoth or Co for some boarding. :victory:
It may be an optical illusion. I shorted the stem way up from the guy I bought it from. It was like driving a school bus before. :elkgrin: Much better now! It feels like my KTM. :bike_rider: kinda...

Whoops, Its a blur "Classique" as I like to call it. Wouldn't mind an lt or lt2, but this thing really does it all for my tastes. I wouldn't mind bribing my friend at Pivot for one of their Mach 5's or Firebirds, but then I'd need to sell my truck and sole to afford it.

Damn hijacking train robbers!! :sombrero::sombrero:

Santa-Cruz makes one NICE rig eh... One of the new frames I'm looking really heavil;y into is the New Bullit. I'm a bit aprehensive as I've been on a Norco that uses the Horst-Linked rear (liscenced form Spec) and frankly I don't think ANYTHING can compare to how responsive and isolated that rear-squoosh is. I'm not really looking forward to the Brake-jack and squat with a possible Single pivot. I also don't want to have to go to a floating rear brake to cure it ;) That said, it is about as reliable and tested FR frame as they come. I love Santa Cruz's bikes and I'm stoked to possibly be on one.

I didn't realize that you came from an MX background, you know exactly what I mean about steering feel then eh ;) I can't stand the slow steering and the huge bar sweep you get with long stems.

Don't wish away your good weather, I had to leave a hour early because there was about an inch of snow here in Portland and people here CAN"T drive in snow... While I lov the stuff, this city becomes completely crippled when the white stuff falls... But it is nice up on MT. Hod right now eh;)

Like I said mate, great vid and nice bike by the sounds of it.

Cheers

Dave

d0va
01-27-2009, 09:11 PM
you have an awesome rig...

SOAZ
01-28-2009, 01:20 AM
Santa-Cruz makes one NICE rig eh... One of the new frames I'm looking really heavil;y into is the New Bullit. I'm a bit aprehensive as I've been on a Norco that uses the Horst-Linked rear (liscenced form Spec) and frankly I don't think ANYTHING can compare to how responsive and isolated that rear-squoosh is. I'm not really looking forward to the Brake-jack and squat with a possible Single pivot. I also don't want to have to go to a floating rear brake to cure it ;) That said, it is about as reliable and tested FR frame as they come. I love Santa Cruz's bikes and I'm stoked to possibly be on one.

I didn't realize that you came from an MX background, you know exactly what I mean about steering feel then eh ;) I can't stand the slow steering and the huge bar sweep you get with long stems.

Don't wish away your good weather, I had to leave a hour early because there was about an inch of snow here in Portland and people here CAN"T drive in snow... While I lov the stuff, this city becomes completely crippled when the white stuff falls... But it is nice up on MT. Hod right now eh;)

Like I said mate, great vid and nice bike by the sounds of it.

Cheers

Dave
Thanks Dave. I was so pleased by the shorter stem I got shortly after buying the bike, that you've got me thinking. I may try a shorter stem if I can bum one off of a friend. The steering is quick and on point, but I know what you mean. The type of stem over forks on spot steering of my ktm is really great. I love it!
Some day I'd like to get an even more freeride oriented bike, but alas that means I need another more xc style bike then! Haha, my list as I'm sure yours never ends!

Snow sounds like fun right now, but you're right. I need to remember how nice it is to ride year round. (some folks take the summer off here) I don't mind the 110 degree days, but a "long" ride might be 7 miles in that heat! :drool:


you have an awesome rig...

Thanks man! Many years and many hours and as few $'s as possible! :Wow1:

4Rescue
01-28-2009, 03:35 AM
Thanks Dave. I was so pleased by the shorter stem I got shortly after buying the bike, that you've got me thinking. I may try a shorter stem if I can bum one off of a friend. The steering is quick and on point, but I know what you mean. The type of stem over forks on spot steering of my ktm is really great. I love it!
Some day I'd like to get an even more freeride oriented bike, but alas that means I need another more xc style bike then! Haha, my list as I'm sure yours never ends!


I hear ya brother, having the perfect do everything rig is SO damn hard. What I personaly think is part of the case is how specialized and imensely effective the new technology is, it's made us soft to some degree. I remember being STOKED that my new Specialized Rockhoper way back when had... *gasp!!!* Front Suspension!!!! Elastomer Spec. Branded RockShocks built forks to boot. That rig is STILL going strong though and at one point I did everything on it. Rode Dirt-jumps, mild free-ride stunts, long XC loops. Now I have the 4x4 for free-ride and DH, and the P2 For street and XC, a Myata Road bike and my Old Spec. HT that is now built for my GirlFriend (it's an old D-Butted Chromo frame and it rides 10billion times beter than my creaking groaning P2 HAHAHA) AND now I'm looking at having a 4th "big-rig" around if the Bullit ends up in the house...

Too bad you don't live closer SOAZ, I've got a shop full of parts you could borrow and try out different cockpit settings, some of my buddies call it the lab...

Oh and for something else to drool about...have a look-see at this mate ;)

http://nsmb.com/

Edit: crap can't get the link to work... But half way down the page on the left is a link to an article on the new 2009 BLUR XC CARBON (searching the web, I belive that there might have been a spoiler and that Trek has pulled the images and text... interesting, I read it today, but now it's gone and a google search returns no images...)


Cheers

DAve

SOAZ
01-28-2009, 04:03 AM
Wow. carbon. What ever happened to 29 being the next thing.

A buddy of mine owes me some money for my old WR I sold him. He just happens to be a guy like you with bike parts a plethora so I told him I'd accept payment in the form of a nice road bike. I can't wait. It will be my first true road bike. :sombrero:
Should be fun!

Its just so easy to get obsessive about bikes... Oh wait so are trucks, dirt bikes, guns, cars, and just about anything with wheels or loud noises. Damn. :coffeedrink:

If you ever make it this way, drop a line.





I hear ya brother, having the perfect do everything rig is SO damn hard. What I personaly think is part of the case is how specialized and imensely effective the new technology is, it's made us soft to some degree. I remember being STOKED that my new Specialized Rockhoper way back when had... *gasp!!!* Front Suspension!!!! Elastomer Spec. Branded RockShocks built forks to boot. That rig is STILL going strong though and at one point I did everything on it. Rode Dirt-jumps, mild free-ride stunts, long XC loops. Now I have the 4x4 for free-ride and DH, and the P2 For street and XC, a Myata Road bike and my Old Spec. HT that is now built for my GirlFriend (it's an old D-Butted Chromo frame and it rides 10billion times beter than my creaking groaning P2 HAHAHA) AND now I'm looking at having a 4th "big-rig" around if the Bullit ends up in the house...

Too bad you don't live closer SOAZ, I've got a shop full of parts you could borrow and try out different cockpit settings, some of my buddies call it the lab...

Oh and for something else to drool about...have a look-see at this mate ;)

http://nsmb.com/

Edit: crap can't get the link to work... But half way down the page on the left is a link to an article on the new 2009 BLUR XC CARBON (searching the web, I belive that there might have been a spoiler and that Trek has pulled the images and text... interesting, I read it today, but now it's gone and a google search returns no images...)


Cheers

DAve

4Rescue
01-28-2009, 10:39 PM
here's the Blur XC Carbon...

http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?t=119166

Enjoy...

And SOAZ, if I'm ever down that way I WILL drop you a line and make you show me that trail mate.

Cheers

Dave

P.S SOAZ is are you the same SOAZ fom over on Yotatech too???

xcmountain80
01-28-2009, 11:06 PM
Oh f-bomb now thats hot.

Aaron

4Rescue
01-29-2009, 12:02 AM
I know really... I'm not that into the "weight-weenie" thing (no offence intended, that's just what we DH/FR guy's call it), but man that is one sexy lightweight eh ;)

Cheers

Dave

SOAZ
01-31-2009, 05:33 AM
here's the Blur XC Carbon...

http://bb.nsmb.com/showthread.php?t=119166

Enjoy...

And SOAZ, if I'm ever down that way I WILL drop you a line and make you show me that trail mate.

Cheers

Dave

P.S SOAZ is are you the same SOAZ fom over on Yotatech too???

That thing is gorgeous!! Man o man!
I love it. I feel like its foreshadowing. That in a few years all high end bikes will be carbon.

Yep, the one and only SOAZ. :elkgrin:

xcmountain80
01-31-2009, 02:31 PM
Off topic I Know but I just got an email from SC about their new Driver 8 anyone seen this thing. More than I'll ever need. but still...:drool:If interested I'll forward the emil as the sites pictures aren't close ups.

Aaron

SOAZ
02-25-2009, 06:42 PM
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/2-10-09%20Anza%20Borrego/AnzaBorrego037.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/2-10-09%20Anza%20Borrego/AnzaBorrego033.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/2-10-09%20Anza%20Borrego/AnzaBorrego022-1.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/2-10-09%20Anza%20Borrego/AnzaBorrego023-1.jpg

Dan Lee
02-25-2009, 10:43 PM
nice build man, where are these last photos taken?

SOAZ
02-26-2009, 12:01 AM
nice build man, where are these last photos taken?

Thanks. Over the last couple days here in truckhaven/Anza Borrego area.

Dan Lee
02-26-2009, 03:45 PM
Ahh, I thought it looked familiar. I've spent quite a bit of time at Truckhaven.

tacollie
02-27-2009, 02:37 AM
Your truck is looking good. I really dig the wheels. For the record a real weight weenie should buy a custom ti frame not that carbon crap:coffeedrink:. Sorry I am bias. But seriously I like your wheels a lot.

SOAZ
03-05-2009, 09:02 AM
I need cleaner air. not a cool looking snorkel. This cleans the air down to 20 microns. I will go from fillinhg my filter with dirt in one or two days to maybe 6 months. WOoHOO!
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/AnzaBorrego011.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/AnzaBorrego017.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/AnzaBorrego023.jpg
All that being said. It is coo and looks cool

ttora4runner
03-05-2009, 01:00 PM
:drool:

What type of filter does that thing use to reduce the dust so much?

Overland Hadley
03-05-2009, 05:06 PM
:drool:

What type of filter does that thing use to reduce the dust so much?

x2

SOAZ
03-05-2009, 09:50 PM
It uses centrifugal force. It spins the more air is being sucked through it.
http://www.amsoil.com/StoreFront/images/topspin_diagram_lg.gif

weezerbot
03-06-2009, 12:20 AM
Looks great Tim! When are you installing mine?? ;)

grouch
03-06-2009, 02:36 AM
That does look pretty cool.

SOAZ
03-06-2009, 02:57 AM
Looks great Tim! When are you installing mine?? ;)
Lets do it in Death Valley!


That does look pretty cool.

Thanks!

shawkins
03-06-2009, 03:19 AM
that does look pretty cool.
x2!

SOAZ
03-10-2009, 09:48 PM
:snorkel: Update. Although I can't give long term data. The snorkel worked well on the GC adventure last weekend. Good at highway speeds. No funny noises or wind resistance etc.

On another note I spent yesterday into the late night installing:
1. Upper ball joints.
2. Lower ball joints.
3. Inner and outer tie-rods.
4. A new CV.

A word to the wise. Go to an auto parts store and RENT the specialty tools if you don't have them. A Ball Joint Seperator and a press to get the ball joints pressed in and out. Once I gave in and got them it went nice and smoothly, relatively anyway... :elkgrin:

All of the above was done as preventative maintenance. At 150k miles I felt like I wanted to do it sooner than later.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/2-8-09%20Grand%20Canyon%20N%20rim/GrandCanyontrip097.jpg

SOAZ
06-29-2009, 04:55 PM
I've been loving my Baja Rack. With an SUV it's essential to have a place to put trash bags, firewood and other things I don't want inside with me!
It has been so nice being able to place things somewhere other than inside! :Wow1:

This one is a Baja Rack Mega Mule. I mounted it to the Thule Load bars. I flipped the Baja Rack mounts so it would sit much lower.
The only change I would like to make is to buy Baja Racks new 3rd Generation 4runner specific mounts, weld the onto this rack and it will sit even lower. It will also be more secure and the Thule bars won't take up some of the racks room.
I checked Weezerbot Heidi's out and like those new mounts a lot!! :victory:

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/P6280013.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/P6280014.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/P6280020.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/P6280018.jpg

shawkins
06-29-2009, 05:45 PM
I've been thinking about getting a Baja Rack for awhile now, but I'm wondering how much wind noise do they make?

Thanks

weezerbot
06-29-2009, 06:43 PM
I've been thinking about getting a Baja Rack for awhile now, but I'm wondering how much wind noise do they make?

Thanks

As Tim mentioned I have the 3rd Gen specific Baja Rack and I didn't notice any additional noise with the rack mounted. Actually I forget its even up there! Well worth it in my opinion.

shawkins
06-29-2009, 07:29 PM
As Tim mentioned I have the 3rd Gen specific Baja Rack and I didn't notice any additional noise with the rack mounted. Actually I forget its even up there! Well worth it in my opinion.
Not to hijack the thread, but where did you get your rack at? I looked on Baja Racks site and couldnt find the 3rd gen rack.

Thanks

weezerbot
06-29-2009, 07:33 PM
Not to hijack the thread, but where did you get your rack at? I looked on Baja Racks site and couldnt find the 3rd gen rack.

Thanks

Wil at Sierra should be able to order it for you. Its so new I don't think anyone has updated their sites yet!

SOAZ
06-29-2009, 10:53 PM
I've been thinking about getting a Baja Rack for awhile now, but I'm wondering how much wind noise do they make?

Thanks

Yep, no noise here. A loss in MPG and a noticeable wind-drag at highway speed though. Yet to determine exact MPG difference. I still like it. I just take it off when not in use for extended periods.

weezerbot
06-29-2009, 11:08 PM
Yep, no noise here. A loss in MPG and a noticeable wind-drag at highway speed though. Yet to determine exact MPG difference. I still like it. I just take it off when not in use for extended periods.

Interesting I haven't really noticed either of those things with mine yet. I've only taken it out of town once up to Sedona and my MPG was still right on according to the scanguage and I didn't really notice any extra noise. I wonder if that is because of how much wider yours is?

ttora4runner
06-29-2009, 11:14 PM
Nice. Any plans to put lights on it?

xcmountain80
06-30-2009, 02:26 AM
I had lights on my last truck and rarely ever used the damn things, while they looked cool they just weren't as functional to me.

Aaron

SOAZ
06-30-2009, 03:29 AM
Interesting I haven't really noticed either of those things with mine yet. I've only taken it out of town once up to Sedona and my MPG was still right on according to the scanguage and I didn't really notice any extra noise. I wonder if that is because of how much wider yours is?
No noise with mine either.
Did you check the actual MPG. The scan guage works off of incorrect data. Maybe try using a gps for the miles and the actual gallons put into the tank. Might not make much difference though. The drag with mine is pretty bad. Not a big deal at 65, but at 75-80 its a big change.


Nice. Any plans to put lights on it?
Maybe a flood on the rear of it. I have found its a bad idea to put lights up that high. They hit trees, illuminate the dust so its harder to see, and I use my HID's on the bumper once or twice a week and they are plenty.

SOAZ
09-20-2009, 12:50 AM
We started by taking a piece of square for the main beam of the swing out. I then cut and bent up a tube of 1.5" for the second piece. I decided to keep the tire under the truck.
I wanted to keep the jerry cans close into the truck and low. We drew up a design on the computer for the plasma cutter and then used the brake to bend up the actual jerry can holder.
I knew that I wanted a table so we took some left over galvanized steel. It was so thin and floppy that we used the brake to add some strength to it with a couple convex bends. We then cut/bent up the sides and spot welded them together. We spot welded the piano hinge to the cross beam of the swing out and riveted the piano hinge on the table side. To hole the table at its "in use" 90 degree angle we stole a used throttle cable from the 1600 race car. Cut it to length and put eyelets on the ends.
We then welded on the locating pin and made two holes. One for 90 degrees open and one for the swing to be at a full 180 degrees. The "close" latch was welded into place once it was adjusted.
We welded up a few tabs for straps to hold the jerry cans in place for now. (next time I'll make a metal strap that will have a padlock on the upper mounting point.)
The license plate was a complete afterthought. Just before heading back to Phoenix I realized it and I used a couple sheet metal screws to "fix" the problem for now.
Check it out:

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/9-19-09SunflowerMine003.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/9-19-09SunflowerMine004.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/9-19-09SunflowerMine005.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/9-19-09SunflowerMine010.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/9-19-09SunflowerMine014.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/9-19-09SunflowerMine011.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/4runner/9-19-09SunflowerMine007.jpg

ttora4runner
09-20-2009, 01:10 AM
Looks good Tim. Very interesting.

How much does the back sag with those can filled up?

SOAZ
09-20-2009, 01:47 AM
Looks good Tim. Very interesting.

How much does the back sag with those can filled up?

Not noticeably in "trail run" format. If the 4runner is already loaded for a long trip with every including bed we'll have to see then.
:sombrero:

SupraTuRD
09-20-2009, 02:59 AM
Awesome build Tim! I really like how you setup the donaldson filter. I wonder if that's do-able on a FJC. I need to see how much room there is between the inner/outer fenders.

SOAZ
09-20-2009, 03:51 AM
Awesome build Tim! I really like how you setup the donaldson filter. I wonder if that's do-able on a FJC. I need to see how much room there is between the inner/outer fenders.

Thanks. It was a snug fit, but I'm sure you could get creative with it. :ylsmoke:

SOAZ
05-16-2010, 03:27 AM
Okay, so I've been bad about updating this.
Mostly, it's been preventative maintenance.
- Rebuilt my Coilovers.
- I've changed the oil in the front center and rear diff.
- Upper, lower Balljoints
- Inner and outer Tie Rods.
- Upper and lower A-Arm Bushings.
- Steering rack busings.
- Flush and replace brake fluid
- Alignment and mount and balance some new 255-85-16 BFG KM2's. I must admit this is the one item I DIDN'T do myself.

The new KM2's are great! I can finally drive 70 or even 90 without vibrations that would shake the car apart!! A lot of it may be the new and balanced tires, but I think the milder terrain pattern also has something to do with it.
So far so good KM2.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-30-10%20Death%20Valley/IMG_0436.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-30-10%20Death%20Valley/IMG_0295.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-30-10%20Death%20Valley/IMG_0363.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-30-10%20Death%20Valley/IMG_0281.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/4-30-10%20Death%20Valley/DSC_0023.jpg

FlexdXJ
05-16-2010, 03:32 AM
Loving everything but the OOOOGLY wheels.

SOAZ
05-16-2010, 03:58 AM
Loving everything but the OOOOGLY wheels.

HAHA! That's why I love them! It's about utility, not bling for me. :victory:

laxtoy
05-16-2010, 11:00 PM
looks awesome tim, i love the tire and wheel setup, looks utilitarianly bad ***.

tacollie
05-16-2010, 11:17 PM
Looks good. I dig the no flares look.

SOAZ
07-26-2010, 04:39 AM
Another update. Nothing major.

Tundra Brake upgrade.
The front rotors were warped for the last 50 or so thousand miles and the pads were finally worn down so I did the Tundra Brake upgrade.


Powdercoated some factory alloys.
I dismounted the tires from the steel wheels and mounted them onto some stock alloys that I powdercoated.
-Couple of tips. Dismounting and mounting 4 tires manually is hard work in the desert heat.
-Working around a giant powdercoat oven is really hot when it's already 110 out! :drool:

Installed 892 Prado heavy duty rear coils.
-Pretty high spring rate. Maybe a little too stiff, even for my heavy pugsly of a truck. I had 890's so I may try the in between choice of 891...

While I was in a powdercoating mood I did the front valence for the baja rack and the rear Toyota wind deflector.

Coming up next. Icon 2.5 rear reservoir shocks, but I won't get a chance to install them for a few weeks or a month at least.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/7-18-10%20White%20Mountains%20with%20Mike%20Toomey/IMG_0791.jpg
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i190/soaz/Trips%20and%20Adventures/7-18-10%20White%20Mountains%20with%20Mike%20Toomey/IMG_0796.jpg