Expeditions West: Western States ARB Adventure

[Scott Brady]

Stephanie and I are leaving next Thursday for a five day adventure in the Western US. If any of you will be in the areas we are playing, let me know. Guaranteed magazine time in Off-Road and 4WD Toyota Owner.

Thursday (2/9): Fly from Phoenix to Seattle, WA.

Friday (2/10): From there, we are traveling to the new ARB facility in Renton, WA to tour the plant and take possession of their 2004 ARB 4x4Runner:
http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/SEMA_05/toyota/Tues/IMG_1880.JPG

We are going to start driving late Friday to Idaho Via HWY 90/82/84. Staying in Ontario Oregon that night.

Saturday (2/11): Southern Idaho and a trip to Silver City in the Owyhee Mountains and the Birds of Prey National Conservation Area. If snow conditions in the Owyhee's are bad, then we will do some adventure along the Snake River south of Mountain Home. Night in Tremonton, Utah.

Sunday (2/12): Leave Tremonton VERY early and head to Jericho Junction and the Little Sahara for some sand fun and pictures. From the Little Sahara, we will travel across the Sevier Desert into the Confusion Range and the ghost town of Ibex. Hopefully, if time allows, we can make a trip into Lincoln mine, one of the oldest mines in the US, dug by the Spaniards in the 18 century. Evening in Cedar City.

Monday (2/13): Up at the crack o' dawn and back to Prescott.

Let me know if you are up for a little exploration. :ylsmoke:

[Nullifier]

Are you guys solo or with an ARB group? sounds like fun.

[mountainpete]

Take possesion as in for keeps??? If so very cool. If not, still very cool.

[Scott Brady]

Steph and I will be solo on this trip, but it would be fun to meet up with people along the way too.

I will have the 4Runner for several months. I will be using it on the El Camino Del Diablo trip, pulling a new "Top Secret" Adventure Trailer, and will be using it for AZROCKS and the Black Mountain trip.

[Hltoppr]

I have to say I'm a bit jealous....:Wow1:

Sounds like a great time!

-H-

[calamaridog]

Steph and I will be solo on this trip, but it would be fun to meet up with people along the way too.

I will have the 4Runner for several months. I will be using it on the El Camino Del Diablo trip, pulling a new "Top Secret" Adventure Trailer, and will be using it for AZROCKS and the Black Mountain trip.


:jump: I get to see it up close!

[+ d]

I get to see it up close!

X2!

sounds like a great opportunity, congrats scott!

[kcowyo]

Wow! Cool assignment Scott!

I could easily be talked into meeting up Sat night in northern UT and for a trip down to Cedar City on Sunday. Sounds like you'll be pushing along at a quick pace on Sunday. I would love to see that 4th gen in person too.

Do you have any firm plans for Sat night or will you just stay wherever you wind up? I'm assuming you're doing the hotel thing (no offense!), or will you sneak a sleeping bag in your carry on bags? :elkgrin:

If you have any more details at this point, let me know. It would be great to meet up again on the trail.

[CLynn85]

That's too cool Scott! :bowdown:

Sounds like a fun trip, even more fun when you're wheelin someone elses rig lol.

Can't wait to hear more about the trip!

This also explains all those little "hints" you've been dropping about that 4-runner. Like to hear your thoughts and opinions on it. Going with my parents to test drive one for the second time this weekend.

[Scott Brady]

KC,

I will firm up my plans and get you the details sometime tomorrow. I am also considering a section of the old Pony Express route as an option too, which will be further north in UT.

[kcowyo]

Whoops!!

In my haste to reply, I wasn't thinking clearly about the dates. Sunday 2/12, is my wee man's 5th birthday and Mom has a big party planned. I completely spaced it when I saw an opportunity to see ARB's 4Runner.

There goes my "Father of the Year Award"......:rolleyes: :smilies27

So I'll have to pass on this one Scott, sorry. Although for a brief moment I was thinking I could just bring the lad with me. The thought of my inquisitive little guy playing his favorite game, 100 Questions, with Scott and the ARB 4Runner had me laughing out loud.

[cruiseroutfit]

Let me know your Utah plans... I would love to join! :D

[Nullifier]

Hey if you happen to roll it or something along the way and need to part it out I call dibs on the space case and fridge! :hehe: :jump: :xxrotflma

[Scott Brady]

I have updated the first post with our detailed itinerary :elkgrin:

I am really excited, as this will be our first trip back to Idaho in 10 years. It will also be my first real stay in WA and Seattle. Cool stuff!

[Scott Brady]

Let me know your Utah plans... I would love to join! :D

Kurt! That would be great. I updated our Utah plans in the first post

[shawkins]

You wouldnt happen to be going down around Portland, or Vancouver would you? Id love to see that Runner real quick!:jumping: But I understand that you are running a tight schedule, and meet ups probably arent in it! LOL

[Scott Brady]

Shawkins,

Unfortunately, we are going to miss Portland all together. Our route heads almost directly to Southern Idaho, going through the corner of Oregon.

Oregon is a beautiful state though. I spent over a week there two years ago, drove around most of the state!

[colvere]

I am a new member and would love to tag along on the silver city run. I live in Nampa and its on your way. The weather has been nice for the past week but a little rain today. I was going to take the kids and dirtbikes out there on sunday for a little trail riding and could probably give you a trail report. Be sure to check out the bruneau sand dunes, Malad gorge, and thousand springs in Hagerman. You could spend weeks in the owyhee canyon lands and never run out of things to see and do. On your way to utah you could also stop and see Shoshone falls.

[Scott Brady]

Colvere,

That should work well. I am looking at staying Friday night in Ontario, OR, and then coming down Hwy78 to the Silver City turnoff. There used to be a killer little cafe near the turnoff to Silver City where I plan on having breakfast.

I plan on leaving Ontario at 5:00 am to make sure that I have good light for photographs in the area.

Do you know if their is heavy snow in the Owahees yet? About ten years ago, we launched a winter ascent into Silver City, and only made it 3/4 of the way. Snow was heavy that year though. I do not remember exactly, but I have traveled to Silver City (and some cool trails beyond) at least 5 times.

It looks like the best route for me is to travel from Ontario to Nampa (45 minutes), where we could meet. Then travel down Route 45 to 78, and then on to Silver City (about 1 hour and 15 minutes).

For four years (while I was a firefighter), the Owahees and Bruneau were my stomping grounds.

Your report would be great, as if the town is snowed in, we may want to make a trek to the Long Tom Res.(south of Boise NF), a fun area I used to explore too.

Tell us more about your Rover :)

send me an email, so we can get the planning process started :) guide at expeditionswest.com

[OverlandZJ]

Scott, please PM me your fax# as i'd love to file my resume with you! :D

Sounds like a great time. Have fun...

[colvere]

The main road from 78 to Silver City is closed at the Sinker creek bridge because of wash out. You can go around via Rabit creek and Nancy gulch. You can also approach from the west from Jordan valley on 95.

[Scott Brady]

Did you make it to the area this weekend? Is that when you found the wash-out? Just curious, because maybe if it is older news, it could have been repaired by now (I hope). I don't know that I will have the time to come in from the West, though I have heard that is a beautiful route.

Did you see any snow on War Eagle?

Ok, one more question. Are there any new trails that you would suggest in that area? In the 2.5 difficulty range.

Thanks :jump:

[Scott Brady]

We are having a great trip so far. The folks at ARB were wonderful and we are currently at a coffee house in Yakima Washington.

The truck is awesome so far. The V8 is a fantastic motor!

We hit the trail in the morning.

[BajaTaco]

We are having a great trip so far. The folks at ARB were wonderful and we are currently at a coffee house in Yakima Washington.

The truck is awesome so far. The V8 is a fantastic motor!

We hit the trail in the morning.

:jumping: :luxhello: :jumping:

[Desertdude]

Great news glad to hear you are enjoying the V8 - get that thing in the snow :Wow1:

Enjoy Utah... and say hi to Ben at Slee-offroad for me when you get to Colorado :wavey:

[Scott Brady]

The trip has been great so far, and we spent the day wheeling with an excellent group of people. Ernie from the forum brought his cool Discovery I and several members of the Idaho Land Cruiser club attended.

We ran the Lost Trail south of Nampa, which proved to be the perfect first test of the ARB 4Runner.

The 4Runner had great traction and flexibility, with the option of center, front or rear lockers and any combination with the traction control.

It also rode better on the trail than any other vehicle I have owned, tested or riden in. Absolutely plush, with spot-on valving in the firm OME shocks. Great stability and balance, though suffering slightly from the thick OEM swaybars.

It was also a little chilly, so Steph and I were spoiled with seat heater, dual zone climate control and super comfy leather seating.

Don't think I have gone soft on you... :p

In fact, the 4Runner closely reminded me of an 80 series Land Cruiser in size, weight and balance on the trail. Of course the monster V8, 5 speed auto and interior refinements make things different on the road.

Here come a few pictures.

[Scott Brady]

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/ID/IMG_7385.JPG
Slow in the WA Cascades

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/ID/IMG_7427.JPG
about 8" under the rear tire

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/ID/IMG_7438.JPG
A nice ledge at the top of an optional climb

[Scott Brady]

DROOOOOOOOL :Wow1:

FJ45 with FJ60 drivetrain and 36x10.5 swampers. One of the coolest rigs I have seen in a while. Major funk factor and many thoughtful modifications.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/ID/IMG_7458.JPG

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/ID/IMG_7576.JPG

[Scott Brady]

Ernie with his cool Disco I. Open diffs and a mild lift. The Series One can wheel!

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/ID/IMG_7550.JPG

[Scott Brady]

Negotiating this optional cambered ledge, the 4Runner was rock solid. This obstacle showed the beauty of the available traction options.

The first ledge was cross axled, but had a tight, passenger side turn too. To make matters worse, the bottom was full of mud and ice. So I engaged the center diff lock and rear ARB locker. The truck climbed and turned with zero spin.

After make the turn, the obstacle pitched sideways to a crack at nearly 25 degrees and on a lightly muddy slope. So I turned everything of to prevent a down hill slide. Low range, all diffs open. Not even a hint of slipage. Several of the other vehicles slipped with the rear end.

It is sweet to have these electronic aids available with Toyota reliability.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/ID/IMG_7514.JPG

[Scott Brady]

Stephanie and I left the group, and headed east towards Mountain Home and my old playgrounds in the desert. I made a quick stop to an old play area we called "the pits" and we motored around a bit. All of the old "technical" challenges seemed pretty tame 10 years later.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/ID/IMG_7583.JPG

We head off to the little Sahara tomorrow morning for some dune and sand testing. I will also be testing out an exhaust jack, and will report back on its performance.

I will also be brushing up on my sand driving in preparation for a "very" possible trip to distant lands, with even bigger dunes........

[Desertdude]

Real cool Scott - from my sofa it looks like a fun trip so far :coffee:

Once you get plush its hard to go back:elkgrin:




say howdy to Steph for us :wavey:

[colvere]

Saturday was allot of fun, the trail was excellent and I learned allot. Scott, thanks for stopping and spending the morning with us here in Idaho. I think everyone had a great time. The trip inspired me to push my locker upgrade to the front burner of the stove. Thanks for posting pictures, I can’t believe I didn’t have my SD card in my camera :mad:

[calamaridog]

Scott,

The ARB 4runner is outfitted similarly as a 100 series can be. Bumper, winch, slider/steps, roof rack, V8 and automatic transmission, mild suspension upgrade, etc.

How would you compare the performance of the ARB 4runner to a 100 series vehicle?

I would assume they are similar, with the 4runner being a bit lighter, smaller, more nimble.


If you are not free to comment I will understand!

Regards, Bryan

[Scott Brady]

After a nice drive through Mountain Home and an evening in Ogden.

The morning was an interesting drive through the Seveir Desert on the way to the Little Sahara OHV area, a huge area of moving dunes created by the 15,000 year old Lake Boneville.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7622.JPG

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7629.JPG

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7631.JPG

[Desertdude]

nice photos Scott -

1 - What are your thoughts on the rack and tire CG wise?

2 - How is the 4 runner handling in all the sand?

3 - I forgot is there a fridge in that thing? :)

4 - How is the MPG ?

5 - R U liking the 5 speed manual ?

[Scott Brady]

There has been some conjecture over the last few years about the 4Runners traction control system, that it is slow to respond, or will even get itself stuck in the sand.

All of course is not even remotely true. The traction control system responded as quickly at any vehicle I have tested, with the possible exception of the new Range Rover. Combined with the impressive V8 torque and 5 speed auto, the 4Runner was killer in the sand. Instant throttle response and very stable. The traction control was not intrusive, and worked so well in the sand that the lockers were never required.

And this was all at street pressure in the tires :elkgrin:

The key is to lock the center diff and turn off the VSC. In the sand, with VSC engaged the system does get unhappy, of course prompted by my drifting through the sand dunes.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7643.JPG

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7645.JPG

[flyingwil]

Scott-
I noticed the steps on the side of the 4Runner, are they strong enogh to act as sliders?

[Scott Brady]

I really had a kick on the dunes. It would be very easy to get spoiled by a 4Runner.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7679.JPG

Stephanie is driving here...

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7720.JPG

[Desertdude]

Go Steph! Nice wheel lift :victory:

[Desertdude]

Thanks for the traction info Scott :beer:

[Scott Brady]

From the dunes, we continued south to the mountains north of Minersville, and a trek into one of the oldest mines in the US, dug by Spaniards over 200 years ago.

The trail grew VERY interesting within a few miles, with deep snow and washouts. There was a 300 yard long hill that was very technical, requiring the rear locker and some momentum. Line selection was also critical as it was a shelf road.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7819.JPG

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7836.JPG

[flyingwil]

Nice it just looks like too much fun.... from the sand to the snow:victory:

Oh and disregard my question on the steps... doesn't look like they would support as much weight like the sliders with out additional support.

[Scott Brady]

On the dunes, I tested the Bushranger X Jack. I will share more thoughts on this in another thread.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/UT/IMG_7768.JPG

[gjackson]

Scott:


I will also be brushing up on my sand driving in preparation for a "very" possible trip to distant lands, with even bigger dunes.....

Afficianados will say you have to go a little further south to get to the 'real' dunes. And in my experience I have to agree. Not, in the least, to detract from those particular distant lands, though. . . :jump:

Hope it works out, but I was looking forward to Baja.:rolleyes:

:beer: Cheers :beer:

[Scott Brady]

Scott,

The ARB 4runner is outfitted similarly as a 100 series can be. Bumper, winch, slider/steps, roof rack, V8 and automatic transmission, mild suspension upgrade, etc.

How would you compare the performance of the ARB 4runner to a 100 series vehicle?

I would assume they are similar, with the 4runner being a bit lighter, smaller, more nimble.


Bryan,

I will do my best to answer your question, having driven both the 100 and 4Runner.

Overall:

The most significant difference is responsiveness. Both on the road and trail, the 4Runner is quicker, handles flatter and more responsive. That is just a result of weight difference. The 100 really is a bit sluggish in comparison.

What is was suprised by is the fit, finish and solid nature of the 4Runner. Right on par with the 100, though the dash materials and layout of the 100 is better IMO. No rattles, nice C-Gate shifter and great leather seats.

Suspension:

The 4Runner front suspension by design has an advantage over the 100, and did a better job of controling pitch. I have also noticed the hard extension of the 100's due to the limited extension travel with cranked in lift.

The rear of the 100 has an advantage. I was surprised by the limited wheel travel in the rear of the 4Runner, which appears to be a result of the swaybar. Overall suspension travel is fine, but articulation limited.

Trail Performance:

This is just a function of size and weight. The 4Runner doesnt slide and struggle on steep slopes like its heavier cousin.

The advantage the 100 has is overall clearance. 35" tall tires can be fitted with minimal lift. That wins major points in my book.


I prefer the 4Runner, mostly because of the size and overall value.

[Scott Brady]

A few things I dont care for on the 4Runner

Fuel door release placement.
One 12v plug in the front
Seat bottoms are a bit short for me (6'1")
Door switch gear is too low, making it hard to use
I would prefer a lift gate/tail gate combo
Wheel well shape
Door lock automatically

Things I really like

FAST
Great trans.
Active Trac
Center diff-lock
good front wheel travel
115v outlet
2 rear 12v outlets
incredible high beams
rack and pinion steering

[Scott Brady]

Saturday was allot of fun, the trail was excellent and I learned allot. Scott, thanks for stopping and spending the morning with us here in Idaho. I think everyone had a great time. The trip inspired me to push my locker upgrade to the front burner of the stove. Thanks for posting pictures, I can’t believe I didn’t have my SD card in my camera :mad:

With lockers, your disco will be incredible :)

[Scott Brady]

One more comment on the 4Runner vs. 100:

The thing I neglected to mention, was the Land Cruiser durability. The 4Runner and Land Cruiser likely have similar reliability, but the 100 takes a lead in durability, which is the day after day, fully loaded pounding. Larger bearings, bigger axles, higher payload, etc.

The Land Cruiser is also a bigger vehicle, so you can take more stuff with you. Larger payload area and higher payload.

[Desertdude]

Scott, thanks for that informative hands on review - one last thing how is the MPG with that V8?



::::::::::

[flywgn]

Great report, Scott. Wow, you guys packed a lot into a few days! You must have put in some long days. Did you have time to enjoy the sunsets and sunrises?

Looks like a short list of the "not likes" to me, and a couple of them can be fixed right away...like the automatic door locks. I hate some engineer telling me when I should lock my doors and when I should wear seat belts. I was using seat belts before most of those designer-types were Hershey bars in their dad's hip pocket.

On the new vehicles we have those items were the first to go.

Are those front cables from hood to roof rack really functional or do they just satisfy the "What-else-can-I-do-to-this-rig" syndrome?

Thanks again for posting this trip. If I had taken the time to check the threads when we returned from Africa, we might have tried to find you at some point. Don't know that we would have been able to keep up though.:D

[Desertdude]

Are those front cables from hood to roof rack really functional or do they just satisfy the "What-else-can-I-do-to-this-rig" syndrome?


those are "Limb Lifters" or "cable brush guards" - when trail riding where the brush hangs into the trail - they lift the brush over the cables and out of the windsheild view - very Safari

I am not sure I see enough Aux lights on that 4 runner ;) - have you had a chance to do any night trail runs and check 'em out?

[calamaridog]

Scott,

Thanks for the feedback regarding the difference between the 4runner and the 100 series vehicles.

One thing I forgot to ask: Which V8 does that truck have? Is that the 270+hp (VVTI) version or the 235hp version of the 4.7?

I have a difficult time articulating the benefits of a more nimble vehicle to some people, especially people who never driven another vehicle off road.

I am sure there is an engineered solution to the lack of articulation in the rear of the 4runner. You can run 10" travel shocks in the rear of the 100 series LC with OME springs which is nice.

Regards, Bryan

[flywgn]

those are "Limb Lifters" or "cable brush guards" - when trail riding where the brush hangs into the trail - they lift the brush over the cables and out of the windsheild view - very Safari...

Oh. :cool:

[BajaTaco]

Fun updates. Hot pics! :bowdown:

[Owyhee Jackass]

The trip has been great so far, and we spent the day wheeling with an excellent group of people. Ernie from the forum brought his cool Discovery I and several members of the Idaho Land Cruiser club attended.

We ran the Lost Trail south of Nampa, which proved to be the perfect first test of the ARB 4Runner.

The 4Runner had great traction and flexibility, with the option of center, front or rear lockers and any combination with the traction control.

It also rode better on the trail than any other vehicle I have owned, tested or riden in. Absolutely plush, with spot-on valving in the firm OME shocks. Great stability and balance, though suffering slightly from the thick OEM swaybars.

It was also a little chilly, so Steph and I were spoiled with seat heater, dual zone climate control and super comfy leather seating.

Don't think I have gone soft on you... :p

In fact, the 4Runner closely reminded me of an 80 series Land Cruiser in size, weight and balance on the trail. Of course the monster V8, 5 speed auto and interior refinements make things different on the road.

Here come a few pictures.

I'm glad it worked out as it was a good day to be in the desert. I don't know what you mean by chilly, I thought it was excellent shorts-weather. My son, Sam wanted to take the top and doors off and lay the windshield down.

FYI, the club is Northwest Cruisers of Idaho.

Dan

[UncleChris]

Hey Scott,

Glad to see that you are having a lot of fun!

Looks like you are learning a lot about the 4runner as well!

[Scott Brady]

Great report, Scott. Wow, you guys packed a lot into a few days! You must have put in some long days. Did you have time to enjoy the sunsets and sunrises?


It was an intense trip from that perspective. Fortunately, Stephanie is a great driver, and did a lot of the road and off-highway miles.

Thursday:
Left PHX at 8:00pm and arrived at hotel at 11:00pm, bed at midnight

Friday:
Up at 6:00am and off to ARB plant, left Seattle at 3:00pm. Arrived in Ontario, Oregon at 2:00am.

Saturday:
Up at 5:00 and off to Snake river and trail meeting at 8:00am. Drove all the way to Ogden, UT, bed at midnight.

Sunday:
Up at 6:00 and testing at dunes, and two more trails near Minersville. Hotel in Beaver at 8:30pm

Monday:
Up at 6:00 and all the way home to Prescott, arrived at 3:00pm even with the scenic route.

Too much fun! I just consider it training for a possible winter assault on the Arctic Circle :)

[Scott Brady]

I'm glad it worked out as it was a good day to be in the desert. I don't know what you mean by chilly, I thought it was excellent shorts-weather. My son, Sam wanted to take the top and doors off and lay the windshield down.

FYI, the club is Northwest Cruisers of Idaho.

Dan

:). Of course it wasnt too cold for you. You drive that smokin hot FJ45 :bowdown:

[Scott Brady]

nice photos Scott -

1 - What are your thoughts on the rack and tire CG wise?

2 - How is the 4 runner handling in all the sand?

3 - I forgot is there a fridge in that thing? :)

4 - How is the MPG ?

5 - R U liking the 5 speed manual ?

1- Don't really notice it on the trail, but the bank of lights do have a pretty strong air foil on the highway. The ARB rack is very nice, with high quality mounting hardware and integrated flooring. IF I ran a rack, I would go that route. Tradesman Racks are nice too from my experience.

2- :cool: Incredibly hot package. Torque and HP are instant. So much power that airing down was never required. Most hills taken at 1/3 power.

3- Yep, a nice 45 unit with the new temp gauge. Improved 12v plug too.

4- EEEEEEK. 15.2 best tank, 11.8 worst..... Removal of light rack would make a huge difference.

5- 5 Speed Automatic. Best performing transmission I have ever tested in a 4wd. A little reluctant to downshift though. Not under power application, but in general driving. The 5 Speed keeps the 4.7 in the power band, and has a very low first gear. Crawls SLOW on downhills. On par with my Tacoma with 5.29 gears.

[Scott Brady]

Scott-
I noticed the steps on the side of the 4Runner, are they strong enogh to act as sliders?

Yep :smilies27 Fully certified...

The mounting legs curve down and then attach to the frame, making them a little more likely to hit the rocks than an angled attachment.

They also hold the weight of the truck with a jack.

Nicest thing about them (other than the obvious) is the really work as a step, providing easy access to the roof rack. They also provide the pleasant benefit of keeping mud off of the side of the truck

[Scott Brady]

Scott:

Afficianados will say you have to go a little further south to get to the 'real' dunes. And in my experience I have to agree. Not, in the least, to detract from those particular distant lands, though. . . :jump:


I agree.

Pretty firm purchase overall, though several areas did have a similar consistency to the Altar. Just not the windward faces, which is were the real challenge is.

[Scott Brady]

One thing I forgot to ask: Which V8 does that truck have? Is that the 270+hp (VVTI) version or the 235hp version of the 4.7?

I am sure there is an engineered solution to the lack of articulation in the rear of the 4runner. You can run 10" travel shocks in the rear of the 100 series LC with OME springs which is nice.


It is a 2004 with the 235hp version.

I am going to do some tests with the swaybar removed and with a bit of a load in the back. The rear heavy springs didnt have quite enough load to compress.

The suspension has long control arms and the shocks have a good length too. I will report back on the changes.

[articulate]

I am going to do some tests with the swaybar removed and with a bit of a load in the back. The rear heavy springs didnt have quite enough load to compress.

The suspension has long control arms and the shocks have a good length too. I will report back on the changes.
This is hilarious, Mod Master. You just can't leave anything the way you found it, can you? Maybe you should add on an auxiliary fuel tank and a shower while you're at it. Perhaps a bidet. (:D ) Expedition approved microwave oven?



:)

[Scott Brady]

This is hilarious, Mod Master. You just can't leave anything the way you found it, can you? Maybe you should add on an auxiliary fuel tank and a shower while you're at it. Perhaps a bidet. (:D ) Expedition approved microwave oven?



:)


:hehe:

Nope. I just need to find a way to fit a snorkel. Just doesn't look right in the Brady driveway... :box:

[CLynn85]

Wow, gone and back already. Great trip report, looks like ya'll had fun. Makes me really disappointed that my mom didn't like the 4runner we test drove a few weeks ago lol.

[ShottsCruisers]

Excellent reporting Scott. Hope you're having fun playing with all these trucks! It's good to see a 4Runner getting put through it's paces (though I wish is was a GX. I just can't get my eyes to stomach to likes of the 4Runner).

I know you're early in testing though I wonder if you have a feel yet for my two main concerns with the 4Runner?

1. The lack of articulation in the rear. Yes, I know you'll disco the sway bar but that's cheating on a D/D. At 10-inches rear travel combined with under 8-inches IFS travel I see the Runner being a big-time wheel lifter. :confused:

2. The low slung components...especially the drivers-side gas tank. What's you take on this on rocky trails? It hangs so low IMO that I see the driver needing to take a path aiming the big rocks under the passanger side...which is not always possible. :confused:

I hope we can run a ARB Runner and my 100 side-by here in AZ. It would make for a excellent comparison that would benefit many.

[Scott Brady]

I know you're early in testing though I wonder if you have a feel yet for my two main concerns with the 4Runner?

1. The lack of articulation in the rear. Yes, I know you'll disco the sway bar but that's cheating on a D/D. At 10-inches rear travel combined with under 8-inches IFS travel I see the Runner being a big-time wheel lifter. :confused:

2. The low slung components...especially the drivers-side gas tank. What's you take on this on rocky trails? It hangs so low IMO that I see the driver needing to take a path aiming the big rocks under the passanger side...which is not always possible. :confused:

I hope we can run a ARB Runner and my 100 side-by here in AZ. It would make for a excellent comparison that would benefit many.

1. Articulation is limited by the diameter of the swaybar, which makes the vehicle a blast to drive fast on the dirt roads. A smaller diameter bar would provide more articulation, but would reduce stability at speed.

It is not a big wheel lifter, as the suspension numbers are better than 95% of the vehicles available.

What is more important than pure articulation numbers is balance. The front has 8", which is better than most IFS trucks and the rear has 10" with the swaybar attached. That makes for a very balanced suspension and allows the 4Runner to perform fantastic. Suspension performance is a highly complex endeavor, and is influenced by spring rate, travel, damping, etc.

Even though my Trooper was considerably more travel, it is no where near as balanced and tactile.

2. Not an issue. Never hit the tank, even on several 3+ rated obstacles. The front factory skidplate could be thicker, but all Toyotas suffer the same.

3. Put 32" tall tires on the 100 and it would make a great comparison. Otherwise, it will be turtle and the hare. 4Runner will outperform the 100 on the fast stuff and tight trails, while your 100 will fair better in the bigger rocks due to tire size. Or I could swap over the 255/85's from the Taco and really play on the rocks :)

[ShottsCruisers]

1. Articulation is limited by the diameter of the swaybar, which makes the vehicle a blast to drive fast on the dirt roads. A smaller diameter bar would provide more articulation, but would reduce stability at speed.

It is not a big wheel lifter, as the suspension numbers are better than 95% of the vehicles available.

What is more important than pure articulation numbers is balance. The front has 8", which is better than most IFS trucks and the rear has 10" with the swaybar attached. That makes for a very balanced suspension and allows the 4Runner to perform fantastic. Suspension performance is a highly complex endeavor, and is influenced by spring rate, travel, damping, etc.

Even though my Trooper was considerably more travel, it is no where near as balanced and tactile.

2. Not an issue. Never hit the tank, even on several 3+ rated obstacles. The front factory skidplate could be thicker, but all Toyotas suffer the same.

3. Put 32" tall tires on the 100 and it would make a great comparison. Otherwise, it will be turtle and the hare. 4Runner will outperform the 100 on the fast stuff and tight trails, while your 100 will fair better in the bigger rocks due to tire size. Or I could swap over the 255/85's from the Taco and really play on the rocks :)

Wow....sounds like you're sold. That's a great testimonial!

[Scott Brady]

It is a great package for a comfortable, reliable DD/Trail machine. It is very similar to the FZJ80 in the fact that it does many things well, but does not specialize in any one area.

If you had to own only one new vehicle to do it all, this would propably be it in my book.

But as with everything, there are compromises... which is why many of us own several vehicles :ylsmoke:

[ShottsCruisers]

which is why many of us own several vehicles :ylsmoke:

I'm afraid that as this testimonial continues on that I'll contemplate a GX470. While I wouldn't want to be caught dead in a 4Runner, I luv the looks of the GX.

I hope you'll be finding faults in the 4Runner soon. My driveway's full, though it does have room for a dedicated 100-series trail rig (a little brother to my 2001). Maybe we can Trailex a 470 instead? :ylsmoke:

[crawler#976]

...gonna be difficult to find any local terrain challenges for ya Scott. Looks like you covered things pretty well! Maybe Smiley Rock??? Or from the Iron King Mine to the top of Ticonderoga Gluch above Walker???

[ShottsCruisers]

I thnk Scott's coming down to the Florence area to test. Just don't come March 11-18 cuz I'll be in Japan.

[Scott Brady]

I thnk Scott's coming down to the Florence area to test. Just don't come March 11-18 cuz I'll be in Japan.

March 17-19 for AZ Rocks :)

[Scott Brady]

I will have it out this Friday evening and on Saturday in Sedona. That is a nice place to shoot trucks like this.

[ShottsCruisers]

March 17-19 for AZ Rocks :)

Figures. :mad:

[4RunnerGuy]

That sound just heard around the world was millions of 4Runner owners breathing a collective sigh of relief...:D


...While I wouldn't want to be caught dead in a 4Runner, I luv the looks of the GX...

[Life_in_4Lo]

Nice pics and report. Nice to see the capabilities of the 4Runner appreciated by others.
I've wheeled in all kinds of terrain and it performed great. Even better when I added the ARB rear locker. 3 years of great use and it's a tough pkg.

As for suspension upgrades and articulation, the limitations are not any less than a 100. There are some solid developments going on.

We were the first to put OME suspensions on 4Runners. (Prado 120 kit)
My friend has gone thru just about every suspension setup available and has gotten the rear to flex great with a suspension he developed (altho it flexes very well with OME setup).
Also, with coilovers, it can run advanced shocks like donahoes or saws.

Additionally, this platform is a Toyota world-standard now with the Taco/4R/GX/FJCruiser/Prado all sharing identical & similar parts/frames.

[Scott Brady]

A little video action :)

Playing on the dunes (http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/arb4x4Runner.wmv)

[flyingwil]

A little video action :)

Playing on the dunes (http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/ARB_4Runner/arb4x4Runner.wmv)


Sweet I live Videos! Nice Job! Does it have on-board air? Or is the compressor just set up for the lockers?

[Scott Brady]

Sweet I live Videos! Nice Job! Does it have on-board air? Or is the compressor just set up for the lockers?

I actually has both. The new small locker compressor and a portable ARB unit for the tires :)

[azskyrider]

Hello Scott,

I might have missed a post answering this but is there any chance there will be an article in a future 4WD Toyota Owner magazine about this vehicle and its accessories?

[Scott Brady]

It will be featured in Off-Road, 4WD Toyota Owner and Expeditionswest.com :camping:

[david despain]

how in the world did i miss this thread? i could have cheered you on as you raced past headed south :clapsmile

[Z O O R O P A]

ahem, if you have any spare time you could , if you please, perhaps make a video (since you are so good at them!) of the vehicle. Giving us a nice tour around it and some close ups of the goods!!!

Cmon now guys and dolls a little encouragment to help the man :clapsmile :clapsmile :clapsmile

[4x4rnr]

...if you please, perhaps make a video (since you are so good at them!) of the vehicle. ...

I'll second that. I was #3 in the states to do the Prado suspension on a 4th gen 4runner, thanks to some excellent pioneering work by some others. Next on my list are winch-capable front bumper, sliders, and lockers. So any additional details you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Excellent work on the review Scott, keep up the good work :exclaim:

[mochoajr]

It is a great package for a comfortable, reliable DD/Trail machine. It is very similar to the FZJ80 in the fact that it does many things well, but does not specialize in any one area.

If you had to own only one new vehicle to do it all, this would propably be it in my book.

But as with everything, there are compromises... which is why many of us own several vehicles :ylsmoke:

Thanks for the info on the ARB 4Runner and great pics too!! I have an '04 with the V6, do you think I miss much not having the V8??

Thanks, mochoajr

[RL Lemke]

Scott:

I wonder if you might post some close-up photos of the underside of the front bumper and step sliders. I would like to see how the bumper interacts with the skid plate, and how the slider attaches. Your willingness to share your experiences here, and the other sites, is greatly appreciated.

Oh yea, if you could post a couple photos of the new compressor for the air lockers would be appreciated also.

[Z O O R O P A]

Until our feearless leader comes back from his galactic space travels to other alien territory, here are some pics to keep the monkey off your back!

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?threadid=16746

[Ryanmb21]

I just joined this forum and am very excited, there is so much great information. I'm very jealous of everybody's experiences! I love the pictures, videos and reflection.

Last week I bought my first 4x4, an '06 4runner Sport V6. I love it, and in the coming years I want to take a few 'mini-expeditions' of my own, whenever I can get a couple weeks away from work. (There isn't much oppurtunity to use the 4 wheel drive between hermosa beach and downtown LA where I work.)

My off-roading experience (if you can call it that) is very limited, sitting shot-gun with my dad in our '81 CJ-7, so I have a lot to learn.

That ARB 4runner is awesome! I think my first mod will be a 2-3" lift and some A/T tires. I noticed on your Tacoma you chose Donahoe coilovers and the ARB 4runner had the OME springs and shocks. I am faced with the same decision, I've read your write up on the coil-overs and why you chose them. But for my purposes, being a begginer do you think I would be making a poor choice to go with the OME setup (cheaper)? I'm sure either choice will be more than adequate but I want to make the correct choice the first time. Something that 5 years down the line, I'm still excited about.

Another consideration for me is that the 4runner will be my daily driver with 80-90% of the miles coming on the road, which setup is best for onroad performance?

Sorry for joining up and immediatly asking for help :)

I look forward to being a contributor in the future.

Thanks,
Ryan

[goodtimes]

Welcome to the site Ryan. Don't feel bad about asking for help....that is the reason most of us are here. If no one asked for help, it would get boring. I can't offer much help to you though....I'm not a toyota guy. The trucks don't fit my needs, so I don't own one....but there are no shortage of toyota owners around here. You might consider starting a new post in the toyota truck/tacoma/4-runner section, as it gets more traffic than some of the older posts like this one. In the mean time, pull up a chair, grab a beer, and enjoy the site.

:wavey:

[Desertdude]

Welcome Ryan - you should PM life_in_4Lo (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/member.php?u=94) on this site he had an 03 runner and did many of the mods you are thinking of ;)

[Scott Brady]

Another consideration for me is that the 4runner will be my daily driver with 80-90% of the miles coming on the road, which setup is best for onroad performance?


The coil-over will shine on high-speed, long distance desert travel. The additional oil capacity and larger valve body improve performance in that arena. They will both have excellent road manners.

For everything else, the OME system is fantastic, and considerably cheaper. I was VERY impressed with the ride and handling of the OME kit on the ARB 4x4Runner.

Congrats on the new ride, and thanks for stopping in to say hi.

[Ryanmb21]

Thanks goodtimes, desertdude and Scott...

This forum is great! When I make some choices, I'll let everybody know and post some pictures

Again Thanks

[Scott Brady]

The first installment in Off-Road. The August issue.

It details the Idaho portion of the adventure. :)

[calamaridog]

The first installment in Off-Road. The August issue.

It details the Idaho portion of the adventure. :)


Scott,

I may actually have to buy another off road magazine to read your articles damn you:mad:

:ylsmoke:

[Scott Brady]

For those of you who liked the ARB 4x4Runner, check out the October 2006 Issue of Off-Road :lurk: