RidgeRunner's '87 4Runner Build

[RidgeRunner]

My first 4wheeling rig was a '72 FJ40, next was an '85 Toy Pickup, then a '99 Tacoma (stock, but I still wheeled it), then........a Jeep Cherokee. Nothing wrong with the Cherokee except that it wasn't a Toyota. I've been wanting to get back into Toy for a while and finally sucked it up and sold the Jeep.

Tuesday I picked up an '87 4Runner.

Current specs:
22re, 5spd manual
SAS with '85 axle, FJ rotors, IFS calipers, 5.29 gears, open, Highsteer
'87 rear axle, V6 3rd, Detroit, 5.29 gears
Chevy rear springs, triangulated rear shocks
Hybrid front springs from '85 and '87 rears, shock hoops, 13" travel shocks
Tube rock sliders, 2x4 rear bumper laid flat and wrapped under rear quarters.
SR5 seats
Sitting on 37x12.50-15 MTRs, pretty worn but should get me through this season.

On closer inspection it's going to need more TLC than I first thought but I got it for a decent price so I'm OK with it.

Thursday I picked up a Toyota E-locker to put in the front, a second t-case, and a dual case cross member. I also placed an order with Addicted Offroad for most of the rest of the parts for "Stage 1" of the build.

Stage 1 will be:
E-locker into front axle with Longfield shafts (shafts will stretch the budget but I think they are the right way to go)
Go through front axle and make sure all seals and bearings are good, replace as needed.
Truss and Gusset front axle.
Dual cases
u-bolt flips
Diff armor front and rear
Remove sliders, straighten, clean up, and reinstall tighter to the body
Install Warn M8000 winch somehow, even if it's just a winch plate I can build on later (the shafts took the budget for the winch bumper)
Rebuild hybrid front springs to take the extra weight of the winch

Stage 2 (aka things to do later as time and money allows):
On board air with either existing AC pump or source a york.
Repaint the truck with Rustoleum enamel as seen in Hotrod Mag recently.
Clean up cut out fenders
Rear fender guards (1.75" tube from sliders to bumper along fender line).

Long term:
Exo cage.

The way my summer looks right now I don't have time to wheel until mid August :frown:, hoping to have stage 1 done to still get some good runs in then. I'll post up as work progresses.

[mattzj98]

I don't know much about Yotas but it looks really good. How long do you think untill the whole projects done?

[foxtrot]

nice rig, looks like a good start. if you don't mind me asking, how much did you get it for?

[Mporter]

nice rig, looks like a good start. if you don't mind me asking, how much did you get it for?

X2. That's what I wanna do eventually. If you got it for a steal I'll just have to keep my eyes peeled when more money just miraculously falls in my pocket.

[Brody]

Sent a PM with more suggestions...

Are the Chevy springs 3 leaf or 4 with the overload? If they are the 4 leaf, you can cut off the back of the overload spring about 4" behind the spring perch and get a lot more flex without losing any ride height. The remaining front portion of the overload will act as an anti wrap bar. Works really well and you can do it with a grinder without removing the wheels or springs.

Most of the stuff you are talking about doing I have done on my heap. If you are in the neighborhood, feel free to stop by and take a look at it if you want to.

[RidgeRunner]

nice rig, looks like a good start. if you don't mind me asking, how much did you get it for?

He was asking $3800, I had a few concearns and offered him $3k. We settled on $3300. Yours is a good deal at $3800, already having dual cases, even with the broken locker.

Sent from my Droid using Tapatalk

[4finger]

aaaaahhhhhhhhh. i love the first gen runners. im gonna keep an eye on this one.

[Brody]

I had an 84 for awhile that had the original back made by Winnebago. The rear window was broken out and I never found another one. I ended up going with a plexiglas piece instead. At any rate, seeing Winnebago on the back piece was a surprise..

[Michael4rnr]

Very nice yota and the finish projects going to look awesome.

[RidgeRunner]

I ordered a truss and Marlin inner seals from Dave'z Offroad today.

Been looking around at shafts for the front axle. I like Longfield, definitely a good product, been around a long time, unbeatable warranty and customer service. Trail-Gear also sells 30 spline shafts and Birfs with a lifetime warranty for about $70 less. Anybody have any experience with them?

[Haku]

The Dirty 30 ones from Trail Gear are pretty much the same thing. You will also see these sold through Nitro dealers I think. I've heard rumors that they are made by the same manufacturer as Longfields or maybe the previous manufacturer or something. I'm sure either of them will hold up just fine. To me though, the extra $70 is worth spending with Bobby Long.

Trail gear has a decent warranty ,supposedly also a "no question asked lifetime warranty" as well, but I've heard of people having issues on a few occasions where Longfield would have happily replaced it. At the end of the day its worth it to me to spend it with the innovator that started it all, and not the company that came in after all the hard work was done and sell it for less money.

Got plenty of work to do on that sucker, can't wait to see it all finished up. I sense a Moab trip in your future.

[Brody]

To me though, the extra $70 is worth spending with Bobby Long.

X2....and it helps to show support to the 'little guy', especially one who has gone out of his way for the Yota community, stands behind his warranty, and is someone that epitomizes the words "customer service".

Bobby warrantied a 6-7 year old Longfield axle that finally gave up the ghost in my heap last year with no questions asked. That is a Longfield that had had serious abuse, roughly 100,000 miles on it, all with big tires and a locker. Customer service goes a LONG ways. Guess who I am going to or am going to suggest people go to for their axles? That is much like suggesting people go to Englewood Drive Shaft...and for the same reasons...

[RidgeRunner]

That is much like suggesting people go to Englewood Drive Shaft...and for the same reasons...

I'll definitely be calling them when it come time to have my shafts built.

[jesse05lj]

Looks like you are off to a good start! :)

[MelloYello]

Nice. That looks like it will be a great rig.

[4runner freak]

Subscribed, Dave.
I'd like to see this in person sometime, too, since you are just up the road.(Check out the neighbors thread (http://www.frontrange4x4.com/forums/showthread.php?13268-FR4x4-Neighbors))

[RidgeRunner]

I'd like to see this in person sometime, too, since you are just up the road.

Any time, I'm just going to be driving it for a bit before I really start working on it. I have another responsibility that I have to finish up before I really dig into the build.

Passed Emissions today! No problems at all, all readings were really low. It did look pretty funny with 225s on it for the test.

I decided to pull the valve cover and check the valve lash and found that a previous owner had replaced the timing chain with a double chain kit! That was a nice find until I noticed that it was off a tooth. Fixed it and it runs a little better now.

[RidgeRunner]

Got some parts in today! I drove up to Addicted Offroad this morning to pick up my order. Also got some stuff from Davez Offroad. On to some pics!

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_171044.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_171011.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_170843.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_170730.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_170604.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_170459.jpg

Picked up a Toyota E-locker a couple weeks ago.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_174418.jpg

Trasnfer case for the double cases.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_174427.jpg

Found a used double case x-member for cheap.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_174439.jpg

And last but not least.....I couldn't help myself when I got up to Addicted this morning.....
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110629_170329.jpg

[RidgeRunner]

Took some poser shots last week, wanted to see how well it flexed.

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110619_175403.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110619_175420.jpg

[Patrolman]

Nice pics and a good collection of parts! You won't be disappointed with this build!

[Haku]

Sweet!

Thats quite a pile you got there. You are gonna be psyched with the capabilities all that will bring you. Let us know if you need any help installing all that stuff.

[RidgeRunner]

Worked on the 4runner a little last night. The previous owner added a 1/4" plate and a receiver to the front of the frame. The receiver was kinda crooked and it was in the way of the new bumper.

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110630_170946.jpg

I cut the receiver off flush with the plate then cut part of the plate out leaving triangle tabs to bend back and weld to the cross member. The receiver was also welded to the cross member and I didn't feel like cutting it out so I just left it.

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110630_175635.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110630_180825.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110630_180819.jpg

Put some paint on it and test fit the bumper.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110630_185716.jpg

Should have the bumper painted tomorrow and installed with a Warn M8000 on it.

[Haku]

Looking good dude. Looks like that should be plenty strong in the front there.

Not sure if Scotty's bumper came with the "frame reinforcement kit" with the plate that would normally weld where the 1/4" was now, but if you don't need/want it anymore I'll take it off your hands. Thinking about going with a lower profile plate bumper on the front of mine and that might be the ticket.

Look's like its wheelable to me....time to go on a trail run.

[RidgeRunner]

Sorry, didn't get the frame reinforcement kit with it.


Look's like its wheelable to me....time to go on a trail run.

No front drive shaft, waiting till after I do the dual cases to build one.

[Haku]

Thats fair. Hurry up and get that sucker installed :thumbs:

[RidgeRunner]

I'm putting together the 2nd case and adapter tomorrow. Next is a rear shaft from Bill at Englewood Driveshafts and probably a square front shaft for now.

Need to raise a few more funds so I can get the Longfields. The bumper took part of the shaft $.

[foxtrot]

that thing is looking good! hey Josh, if you go with a new bumper, how much do you want for the old one? I can buy you the frame re-inforcement kit to help pay for it :)

[Haku]

that thing is looking good! hey Josh, if you go with a new bumper, how much do you want for the old one? I can buy you the frame re-inforcement kit to help pay for it :)

For you....$800. :p

Nah, as it sits, with no winch, I would let it go for $300 or so. If I seriously want to sell it, I'll probably clean it up and repaint it and such (maybe even powdercoat it) and try to sell it as an "upgraded" one for more. As it sits right now, its only really usable for a Warn 8274 front footed winch. I used the existing holes as a "roset weld" holes to mount the 8274 winch plate, so if you wanted to use it for a normal winch new holes would have to be drilled. I guess you could mount other winches with the bolts forward too, but not sure.

I'm just realizing that I would really like a better approach angle, so I'm thinking something that barely sticks out in front of the headlights and gives easy access to the tires would be nice. Th more I look, the more I like the look of a plate bumper too. I'll move the 8274 winch to the back of the rig, so I won't be selling it along with the bumper. Thinking about trying to figure out a way to do a mid mounted winch that will work for both the front and rear of the rig. Failing that, I'll just do a reciever mounted one that I can store in the back.

Sorry....Hijack over.

[RidgeRunner]

SON OF A *****!!!!! I pulled the front of the motor apart today to replace the timing cover seals, the passenger side was leaking a ton of oil.

When I get the timing cover off I find this
19802

19803

19804

Since its a double chain I doubt I can source one locally. Guess I'll do the chain and guides too since I'm in there.

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[Patrolman]

At least you caught the problem. I bet you can find that locally. The early motors are still popular, so bound to be parts floating around for it. Might as well get all the work done right!

[RidgeRunner]

Yeah, I'm glad I found it. I could have a single row chain kit from napa tonight. Problem is that it has a double row timing chain in it right now and I'd like to keep it that way. Not that my tired motor makes enough power to need a double row kit.

[RidgeRunner]

Well it looks like someone put a pre '83 block in the truck at some point, or they put in an early double row chain. Toyota did put a double row chain in some 22r motors up till about '83. Found the parts locally!

[Patrolman]

There is a double row chain kit to swap from the single row. The single row is known for going through guides and such. The double row basically lasts the life of the truck. Quite possible someone did the double kit when they had to service it. If it is a 22re, this is almost certainly the case. The 22re head won't fit on the early 22r block. And the 22re manifold won't fit on the early 22r head. Basically, the only way to get a 22re and dual row is to do the chain swap kit. Regardless, the parts should be easy to get still.

[RidgeRunner]

Hmmm, good to know. I know LC sells a double row kit but you have to use their timing cover. Mine still has the factory cover on it. I had a buddy go get the new timing kit for me, I'll have to see if it will fit. If not I'll have to track down a double row upgrade.

[Patrolman]

Hmmm... I wonder if the early 22r timing cover fits on the 22re. I never tried.

If you are using a cheap kit, the chains are often not was stout. They can stretch from what I understand. Also, the guides are usually a POS. That is why they say to use Toyota guides, or use the metal guides. Only jobs I ever did I used DOA metal guides with good success. Got their entire kit with quality parts, but dropped $300 or more on each kit.

[RidgeRunner]

I don't know, I'm stumped. I found a site that says the early ('81-'82) 22r engines used a double row 98 link chain and that the '85-'94 22re used a single row 96 link chain.

Just compared the one out of my '87 with a kit for a '82 and they are identical, both 98 link double row, same sprockets and metal backed guides. So they put the early chain on the later motor. Now the question is does it actually work? or should I just go back to the single chain for my year?

[Patrolman]

Does the conversion kit use a 98 link? The conversion would require changing the cam gears as well as the crank gear. I wonder if the new chain has to then have the 98 links for the double kit. Personally, I would stick with what is in the engine, so long as it works. The biggest reason Toyota dropped the dual in the newer engines was parasitic drag. Dual row weighed more and just took more oomph out of an already under-powered engine. As long as you can handle the power it had, then stick with what it has. Here is a good link on block info too:

http://board.marlincrawler.com/index.php?topic=63052.0

[Patrolman]

Here is a GREAT site to determine what engine you have!

http://www.partsdinosaur.com/page9.html

[RidgeRunner]

Thanks for those links.

So, after an hour or so reading online and some measuring, it turns out that I have an early ('84 and earlier) 22r block and head in my '87 with EFI bolted on. Which means it is compatible with the double row chain i picked up this evening, which is good I suppose, except that now I'm wondering how many miles are really on that engine. Funny though, someone in that marlin tread Patrolman linked also said that he had an early motor in an '87.

Well, I wasted all my time trying to figure out WTF I had in my engine bay and didn't get it back together. Back to the shop tomorrow morning. :-(

[Patrolman]

Good news is that if you have an early block, you can go with a 20r head for a bit more hp. The in/ex manifold bolt patterns should be the same as the head you have now, so should just be a bolt on operation. Odd that they went with an earlier engine and did some mods to fit EFI on it.

[RidgeRunner]

Odd that they went with an earlier engine and did some mods to fit EFI on it.

That's what I thought. From what I have read the EFI manifold will bolt onto a '83 and up head but the double row chain stopped some where in '82. So someone either did alot of work to put EFI on a '82 engine or someone put in an '83-'84 engine and knew that the double row chain would fit it.

I know very little about the history of the truck except that the previous owner was at least the 2nd owner and that he bought it stock. He said that he had the engine out but didn't swap in a new one. Oh well, it is what it is now.

I've read that the 20r head flows better than the 22r. That might be a good thing to look into. On the other hand I'd like to just do a 4.3 Vortec swap and be done with it. That's a ways down the road though.

[RidgeRunner]

Just a little update.

Got the motor back together with a new timing set and water pump. Now that I know I have an early block and head it will make life alot easier when buying parts.

Monday I got a nice package from Bobby Long with a 30 spline axle/birf set and a pair of lifetime knuckle ball seals. I also got an e-locker harness for $15 off EBay to make wiring the front e-locker a little easier. I'm going to build my own harness with relays and led's for locking/locked/unlocked.

I had a buddy drop a front CV shaft down at Bills Englewood Driveshaft yesterday to get rebuilt and re-tubed to use in the rear with the dual cases.

Sat I picked up some square tube from K&K Surplus to build my front shaft.

Not going to get anything done for the next 2 weeks, going out of town for 10 days tomorrow.

[Volcom]

Nice build so far! You coming to the Toyota Jamboree in 2 weeks?

[RidgeRunner]

You coming to the Toyota Jamboree in 2 weeks?

Wish I could but the rig won't be done and I have a concert event that weekend that I am working.

[Patrolman]

Sounds like good progress and glad that you got the engine parts figured out!

[RidgeRunner]

Had a little progress so far this week. Started setting up the gears in the e-locker then broke my clamshell puller:mad:. Should be able to finish that up this weekend.

Pulled the t-case out on Monday, need to pressure wash it, bolt the double case to it and get it installed.

Next up after the t-case(s) are back in is to check the rear pinion angle then pull the rear axle to clean it up, cut and turn the spring perches (if necessary), and install the TG diff armor. While it's out I'll also be pulling the 3rd member to check internals and re-seal the diff, and put new brake cylinders in the rear brakes.

Guess I forgot to mention that I got my DS back from Bill @ Englewood Driveshafts. Nothing but good stuff to say about Bill, he did a great job on my shaft for a great price.

After that is the big project....the front axle. Lots to do there. Modify housing to accept a Toy e-locker, 30 spline Longfields, lifetime wiper seals, Marlin inner seals, Davez Offroad truss, TG diff armor and knuckle gussets, cut and turn the spring perches 'cuz the PO screwed it up and I think the axle actually has positive caster which sucks for stability on road.

Shoot, at the rate I'm moving, I'll be lucky to catch the tail end of the wheeling season :frown:

[glacierpaul]

But you will be ready at the start of next season, with an awesome ride!!

[EldoradoFJ60]

Sounds like a ton of work. Do you have a garage? I keep thinking of the things I need to get done before it's 10 degrees outside again.

[Cr33p3r]

Dave sounds like this build is going to be sweet when you get it done! Keep it up!

[RidgeRunner]

Shoot, this thread needs an update......and some more pics.

Dual cases and rear shaft are in and work great.

Pulled the front axle and took it down to the bare housing. Turns out the front axle that was under the rig was bent. Bummers. Picked up another bare housing from Jim's and went to work on it.

I got all the unnecessary brackets and mounts cut off. Welded on the Knuckle ball gusset kit and got the truss partially welded on.

Also did all the mods to fit the e-locker in the housing, everything was great until the last long stud. Had it out of place by about 1/32" and the 3rd didn't want to go in. I'll have to do some work to make it fit.

Need to get the pics off my phone but I need to sleep off some beer first.

[Brody]

Looking forward to the pictures!

[RidgeRunner]

Ok, finally got some pics.

Old housing that was bent on the long side.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110820_153544.jpg

New housing with diff armor, truss, ball gussets, and a 1/2" shim on the drivers side pad. After a coat of primer.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110828_131741.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110828_131753.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110828_131800.jpg

Completed mods to fit E-locker 3rd into housing. I had to weld and redrill one of the long studs, I had it off by about 1/32" the first time.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110828_131823.jpg

5.29 gears set up in the E-locker 3rd.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110820_153707.jpg

[Volcom]

Nice work!

[RidgeRunner]

I've been thinking for a while now about the best way to wire up the e-locker. I've seen people use relays, there's kits from Inchworm and 12 Volt Guy, exc. I decided to KISS. Found this build the other day: http://www.yotatech.com/f2/how-diy-retrofit-elocker-wiring-235219/ It was very simple and the switch is pretty clean looking (ARB Style), so I decide to go with it.

Parts:
12' of 16-6 trailer harness wire
1 DPDT switch rated to 12V 20A
1 Blue Front Locker rocker switch cover
1 plug body to fit the back of the switch
8 female blade connectors that snap into the plug body

In all it cost me about $50 which is a little cheaper than Inchworm's kit and way cheaper than 12 Volt Guy.

Parts:
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110831_170914.jpg

Switch Front
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110831_170921.jpg

Switch Back
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110831_170932.jpg

I soldered the pigtail from the factory harness to the 16-6 wire, combining the 2 ground wires from the factory harness into the single black wire in the 16-6. I used heat shrink over each individual connection then used a large heat shrink tube over the whole bundle. I wired it up using the schematic from the build and bench tested it. The light in the switch comes on when the locker is locked.

I'll get a video up in a few.

Seems to work well and is pretty simple.

[RidgeRunner]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vg1ShrFN1SM

[Haku]

Sweet.... now make me one :p.

12voltguy is a standup dude, but he uses REALLY cheap and small wires. I would guess 20 gauge if I had to. That thicker stuff is definitely better. He essentially uses the same wiring that you did too. After seeing how simple it was, I wouldn't have bought the harnesses from him.

Looking good dude, definitely coming together well. Now get that axle installed so you can get out wheeling.

[RidgeRunner]

Now get that axle installed so you can get out wheeling.

Hoping to have it back together this weekend, we'll see. I wanted to do a run on Monday but I'd probably have to spend all day Sat. and Sun. to have it ready. Don't think my wife will go for it.

[RidgeRunner]

Its finally back together! Got it all buttoned up last Saturday. The only major thing left to do is install the e-locker wiring. I still have a pretty good punch list to do but it's all minor stuff. The big thing is that it is useable now. On to a bunch of pics......

Clearance for the 30 spline Longs, ended up grinding a little more than shown here and some on the upper side too.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110910_165514.jpg

Square front shaft
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110904_123240.jpg
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110908_190400.jpg

Put a pound of sand in the inner tube and capped it. Balanced it out to about 35mph.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110910_143946.jpg
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110910_192442.jpg

Picked up a spare tire and wheel for FREE, it's sad that it's my spare, it has WAY more tread than my tires.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110913_190243.jpg

Dual case shifters, the second shifter fits right in where the rear window switches go. Still need to make new shift boots for all 3 shifters and make a panel for the rear window switches.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110911_203729.jpg

Replaced the broken stock double DIN sterio with an aftermarket head unit and Cobra CB. Still need to run the antenna wire and mount the antenna.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110911_203708.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110913_190308.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110913_190314.jpg
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110913_190358.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110913_190414.jpg

[Brody]

Nice to see, Dave! Looking good! Fun grinding those knuckles out, isn't it? You ever see the grinder bit that Bobby Longfield uses? And if you have, have you ever tried to find one of the damn things? HAHA...

[Cr33p3r]

Nice work Dave, I like the locker switch set up! I still need to give you a call about drilling and reaming out the knuckles for me too as soon as I get time.

[Beefy]

Wow, very nice!

[RidgeRunner]

Nice work Dave, I like the locker switch set up! I still need to give you a call about drilling and reaming out the knuckles for me too as soon as I get time.

Just let me know when you're ready.

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[RidgeRunner]

Fixed a problem with my TPS today then took the 4Runner up to Left Hand Canyon to play around a bit. Wanted to try out the dual cases and front locker. Over all I am pretty happy with everything. I do miss the auto tranny in my XJ a bit but the dual cases go a long way toward making that up. No more having to ride the brakes down everything, low/low/1st crawls down stuff nice and slow:D.

Need to do some kind of anti-wrap on the rear axle, maybe a cut down overload or something; and I need to cut out the rear fenders some more if I am going to keep the current ride height.

Ran into a kid that flopped his XJ on one of the banked corners, got a little too high and ended up on his lid. Nobody got hurt and we winched it back over for him.

Only got a few good pics, posing on my friends tire.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110918_154727.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110918_154718.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110918_154758.jpg

[Brody]

I used the 4 leaf Chevy springs on the back of my heap and cut the overloads off about 4-5" behind the spring perches. The front part of the overload worked so well for an anti wrap that I removed mine.

If you do decide to do an anti wrap, keep in mind that it doesn't have to be in front of the axle to work well. I had mine set up off of my rear bumper for a few years and it worked just fine.

Here is the link to the trac/anti wrap bars I posted in the TECH section:

http://www.frontrange4x4.com/forums/showthread.php?2017-Traction-Anti-Wrap-Bars-%28Universal%29

That will give you some ideas. Cheapest and best is working with what you already have, especially if you haven't installed the Chevy leaves I gave you. Just cut them down and use them.

[RidgeRunner]

This thread is long over due for an update.....

Finally got a day to work on the 4Runner yesterday. My "punch list" just seems to get longer. Got a few things done yesterday: Fixed some play in the steering shaft, figured out why my rear speakers quit working after I put a new radio in, cut the rod that controls the proportioning valve, welded the end to the frame and got rid of the ghetto looking 12" extension the PO put on the original mount.

The big job was trimming the rear fenders. The previous owner trimmed them and did an ugly job welding them back together, and they were starting to rust. I cut another 2" out of the top so that they will be pretty much flat in with the inner fender. I forgot how much I hate welding body work. 3 hours later I got one side done. Came out pretty good, its a little wavy but not too bad. I'll get some before and after pics up in a few. Now I just have to find the time to get the other side done. The rear fenders are the big job in the way of starting the winter project of painting the whole rig.

The plan is to paint it Kubota "Red" with the hood, removable top, and all the armor going flat black. You can see the "red" in the after pic of the fender when I get the pics up.

[RidgeRunner]

Before and after pics of the fender.

[Patrolman]

Nice job on the fenders! Looks SO much better. Welding body work does take a lot of patience and time. The payoff is worth it though.

Did you get the rear window switch moved? Wanted to see how it ended up coming together. Getting ready for my duals and will have to figure something out too.

Also glad you got the stereo/cb. Same CB that I have in 2 of my rigs. It is a nice setup that you won't be disappointed in.

[RidgeRunner]

Did you get the rear window switch moved? Wanted to see how it ended up coming together. Getting ready for my duals and will have to figure something out too.

I haven't, but I have a good idea of what I am going to do with it. Yet another item on my growing punch list. I'll try and get to that one sooner rather than later and post up some pics when I'm done.

[Popsgarage]

Lookin' good, Dave. Really diggin' the flat look to the fender lip. Been meanin' to send you a PM about the Mustang soft top. Any word on that?

[Cr33p3r]

Looks good Dave, fenders are looking better too! That color is red wow looks orange but I am liking it!

[RidgeRunner]

That color is red wow looks orange

Ya, that's why its Kubota "Red". Its definitely Orange though. I like it!

[RidgeRunner]

Hmmm, 4 months with no update.

Finally got some time to pay attention the the 4Runner. Last weekend it got a "new" motor, rebuilt '89 22re with an engnbldr kit and 261c cam. Drove it most of this week for break in but really haven't gotten on it yet so I'm not really sure how much difference the rebuild and cam made.

Today I built some new sliders for it. 2" square 3/16" wall main tubes, 1.75" .120 wall round legs, and 1.75" outer tubes salvaged off my old sliders.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Medisharedoc004.jpg

Then I pulled both front fenders off to do a little body work and paint them.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Medisharedoc003.jpg

I brought it home (I usually keep it at work) so I can spend time working on it here and there rather than having to be away from the Fam most of the weekend to get anything done on it. It's so close to being trail ready, just a few more small things to finish up and hopefully I can make some runs.

Still need to:
Replace rear springs and add some sort of anti-wrap device. Probably just cut off the back of the overload on the new(ish) 63" chevy leaves and leave the front for the anti-wrap.
Shorten the rear shackles (boat anchors) and add a small lift block to keep lift.
Adjust valves (again) and replace heater core hoses.
Install Tach so I know how fast the squirels are running.

Stuff to do but doesn't need to be done to wheel it:
Paint it.
Finish CB Install, just need antenna and antenna cable
Finish switch installs in center console for front locker and rear window controls.

[Popsgarage]

Lookin' good man.

[Brody]

Looking better and better!

I had really good luck with the 63" Chevy springs, as I might have said. Clipping the overlaod leaf behind the rear spring perch worked so well that I removed the anti-wrap bar I had on mine. The only problem I had, and it was minor, was that the clipped overload wanted to 'walk' a bit. I finally got tired of trying to locate it the "right" way and simply burned it onto the spring clip. It has been like this for about 3 years or more with no issue. I am also running a supercharged 3.4 with a bit of engine work and dual cases so I am putting a bit more stress on it than the 22RE....

Should you decide to go with an anti-wrap bar, keep in mind that you don't necessarily have to mount it going in front of the rear axle to the horse collar (or wherever else you mount the front). You can also mount it going backwards with the same result. I had mine mounted going to the rear bumper and ran it like this for quite a while. Simpler and with more room to work and a lot less fabrication.

[RidgeRunner]

Got some ore work done over the last couple weeks.

I wanted to shorten the rear shackles that were 8" long because they looked like anchors back there that wanted to catch on everything.

Old shackle
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0202.jpg

New shackles, made these out of 3/8"x2" strap with a 1x2 11Ga. center.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0197.jpg

I also had a broken leaf in one of the rear packs so I just replaced both rear packs. The are 63" Chevy packs, the old ones had the overload completely removed. On the new one I cut off the back end of the overload and left the front as an anti-wrap spring as Pete Suggested.

"New" springs with cut overload
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0198.jpg

Because I was shortening the shackle I needed to add a lift block to keep my ride height. It actually sagged a bit in the rear so I wanted to add a little more than I was loosing from the shackle so it would lift the rear a bit. I figured I'd loose about 1.25" with the shorter shackle so I added a 2" block. There was also the overload spring on the new packs so I ended up with about 2.75".

Block tacked to the spring perch
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0199.jpg

Finished off with some end caps
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0200.jpg

Old shackle compared to the new ones I made
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0201.jpg

New shackle installed
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0203.jpg

[RidgeRunner]

The next project was to finish off the center console with the dual case shifters. It started off looking like this. I removed the cubby just in front of the console lid and the shifter fit in there nicely.

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_20110911_203729.jpg

I thought about how to finish off the 2nd shifter for a long time. Finally I decided to make a trim piece that fit in the area around the shifter.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0222.jpg

Patterned it out with some chip board.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0223.jpg

Transfered the pattern to some ABS panel board and heated it up to make the bends stay.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0224.jpg

I made a new set of shift boots for all 3 shifters. The back shifter boot is glued around the piece I made then pop riveted in from the back side.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0230.jpg

I'm happy with the final product.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0236.jpg

I'm still trying to decide what to do with the 3 rear window control switches that were where the last shifter is. I'm either going to extend the wiring and put them in a switch panel under the radio or I was thinking of cutting them into the side of the front center console piece. I'll post up with their location when I get them done.

[Michael4rnr]

Looks really good.

[Brody]

That looks really nice, Dave! I really like the shifter boots and the way the end result looks so clean.

[RidgeRunner]

I also needed to get a CB antenna mounted. After searching around I found an idea that I liked and went to work. Here's how it ended up.
http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0239.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0238.jpg

I made a plate out of 3/16 plate, 1.5" square, and tapped the holes out for the bolts to thread into. That way the mount sandwiches the body rather than just using self tapping bolts into the sheet metal.

Also made a final decision on where to relocate the rear window switches. I mounted them into the side of the forward center console piece. I just remounted the up/down and wiper switches. The lockout switch I just stashed under the console since I've never used it. It is accessable beside the seat if I need it. Kind of a crappy pic but here's how it came out.

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0247.jpg

[RidgeRunner]

As it sits now, pretty much ready to wheel. Just wish I had the motivation to finish the paint, probably won't happen till after this wheeling season.

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_0248.jpg

[Popsgarage]

Some nice mods there, lookin' really good. Really liken' the paint color choice. Definitely more of a red color in the light you took the picture in.

[Bunyon & Babe]

Really enjoyed checking out your build , Dave . Nice work !

[RidgeRunner]

Time for an update! I haven't had a lot of time to get anything done but have managed to do a few things.

No pics of these but I got a set of new TRE's from Marlin Crawler when they were on sale 2 for 1 between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Got those installed and kept the old ones for trail spares.

Also picked up a set of ARP steering arm studs and got them installed.

I got really motivated this weekend and started the process of finishing the paint. I decided to change to color from the Kubota orange to flat khaki. Saturday I got it torn down, sanded, masked, and primed. Started the color today and got the first coat done. Still need to sand then do a second and maybe third coat.

A couple other things that are in the works are fabbing a spare tire mount that will mount to the roll bar and stand a 35" spare on the drivers rear inside, and finding the oil leak on the back of the head (probably just the half moon plug at the back of the cam).

Pics of paint progress to come.

[Popsgarage]

Cool! Lookin' forward to this one.

[RidgeRunner]

Ok, as promised, paint pics! I figured this is my wheeling rig and it will end up with Colorado pin striping and maybe bounce off a rock or tree so I'm not going for the perfect paint job. I did a little body work to the front fenders a while ago but that's it. I was originally going to go with Kubota orange paint but decided that was too bright for me. I ended up with flat Khaki camo with a flat black hood and fiberglass top. I sanded then did primer and 2 coats of color. Here are some progress pics.

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/IMG_1568.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/IMG_1570.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/IMG_1573.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/IMG_1574.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/IMG_1575.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/IMG_1571.jpg

[Fordguy77]

looking good, i did the same thing to my runner, but went the roll on style.

[RidgeRunner]

Got the paint mostly finished up today. About all that's left is to get the windshield set and put in the cowl.

Also got motivated by Patrolman's build and did the marker light/turn signal mod. I used a different socket than he did but found the same plumbing fitting.

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Paint/IMG_1610.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Paint/IMG_1605.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Paint/IMG_1606.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Paint/IMG_1602.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Paint/IMG_1603.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Paint/IMG_1607.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Paint/IMG_1611.jpg

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/Paint/IMG_1612.jpg

[Patrolman]

Paint looks good! The plumbing fitting was just slightly different than what I used, but same basic idea. The socket I use fits into the plumbing fitting like it was made for it. Looks like yours is the same. Keep in mind, you may have to bend/pound the seam in the fender area just to the side of the headlight.

[RidgeRunner]

Keep in mind, you may have to bend/pound the seam in the fender area just to the side of the headlight.

Definitely going to have to do that. I started to and my wife yelled at me because our girls are sleeping and their rooms are above the garage.

[Patrolman]

I have the same problem! Good news is it is only a 5 minute job when you have some time.

[The StRanger]

Nice ride....
Gawd I need to finish up some stuff so I can start on mine again...

[Fordguy77]

Looking good! Hope mine comes out this time around when we redo it for my sister. Any tips?

[Cr33p3r]

Looks good Dave,sad you didn't like the other color as much tho!

[RidgeRunner]

Got motivated yesterday and finally got around to building a spare tire mount. I got tired of my spare bouncing around on the floor in the back and decided to mount it to the roll bar. I eventually want to do a swing out on the rear bumper but this will do for now.

I picked up a 1"x2.5" bolt with a nut and a washer, and used some 1/4" scrap plate and 11ga. tube I had laying around. I think a 35" tire is about as big as you can put in this spot.

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_2464.jpg (http://s557.photobucket.com/user/ridgerunnerxj/media/4Runner/IMG_2464.jpg.html)

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_2465.jpg (http://s557.photobucket.com/user/ridgerunnerxj/media/4Runner/IMG_2465.jpg.html)

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_2466.jpg (http://s557.photobucket.com/user/ridgerunnerxj/media/4Runner/IMG_2466.jpg.html)

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_2473.jpg (http://s557.photobucket.com/user/ridgerunnerxj/media/4Runner/IMG_2473.jpg.html)

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_2475.jpg (http://s557.photobucket.com/user/ridgerunnerxj/media/4Runner/IMG_2475.jpg.html)

http://i557.photobucket.com/albums/ss16/ridgerunnerxj/4Runner/IMG_2477.jpg (http://s557.photobucket.com/user/ridgerunnerxj/media/4Runner/IMG_2477.jpg.html)

[Patrolman]

Nice work! Do you think the top will clear if/when you put it back on?

[RidgeRunner]

Nice work! Do you think the top will clear if/when you put it back on?

It will, I test fit the tire before I pulled the top off to weld in the mount.

[4Runninfun]

I like the use of the bolts for the handle!

[Popsgarage]

Love the bolts for handles!!!!!!

[Funrover]

Looking good!

[foxtrot]

any updates to the build?

[RidgeRunner]

any updates to the build?

Not too much. I'm saving $ for some new tires. I blacked out the chrome grill to match the hood and painted the Toyota emblem to match the body. Looks pretty sharp, I'll post some picks when I get a chance. Also pulled a 4.3l Vortec and 4L60E auto tranny out of a blazer for a swap at some point. Need to save the $ for the rest of the conversion parts for that.

Other than needing some new treads and a few small items, it's pretty close to what I wanted when I bought it and it will wheel just about everything I want it to.

[Popsgarage]

Gonna to the Chevota thing, eh??? That'll be pretty cool!

[C-Bo]

I am exploring painting options for my runner, how rough was it spraying in the garage? Huge mess? How did you handle breathing?