violation
Member
ah. good to know. i guess word of mouth marketing has really worked for him!
violation's 4[theDog]Runner Build and Gear Review Thread
- Thread starter violation
- Start date
ah. good to know. i guess word of mouth marketing has really worked for him!
violation
Member
right on! you got the location right. super cool area.
after we passed the JKU, but still in viewing distance of the JKU, was a really nice dispersed campsite but taken by a dude in a subaru. he and i looked/nodded at each other, and i could tell he was enjoying his view of the Jeep guy struggling lol
Dezert4Runner
Senior Member
If you're ever out there again, there is some cool sightseeing spots in the immediate area. Check out this post from a day trip with the family back in December for some info. None of the photos work but if you do the "Google Chrome photobucket fix" they might show up. I haven't rehosted my photos successfully since Photobucket decided to be douchebags. I'm sure you noticed, but that area is over run with Chollas, so be careful with where the doggo steps if you let him out.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/so-cal/229202-anza-borrego-january-2017-a-11.html
4-Ripcord
New member
A very valuable lesson to learn!violation;2733187 [U said:
I wanna see pics of this! I have seen this advertised and was curious how they work at camp.
Are you going on the OC overland camping trip this weekend? I plan to
violation
Member
i'll do a picture of it in my driveway for you.
usually i have it on the rear hatch when i'm cooking, or sometimes on the swing out (i use my camp table on my swingout). but if i'm not cooking, i'll leave it stuck on my rock sliders as a light for the dog's water bowl.
no go on the OCO trip - i'm prepping for my OR trip so the truck is in the shop right now and this weekend will be an alignment, then after that i have to finish up the wiring. i already have the interior pulled apart again and finally i'm working with a dude to get additional cross bars welded to the roof rack. only 2 more weekends to go before my trip!
Scramble
New member
I know it's a moot point now because of the sleeping platform. I had 3 dogs, then 2 & now back to 3. I keep the dogs in the cargo area with a pet barrier behind the back seats. I pulled the bottoms of the back seat out & use that area for cargo. If you get a RTT you can remove the platform. Something to think about.
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violation
Member
Quick Fist Clamps
Quick Fist Clamps are super versatile, easy to use, and good for lots of things. I use them to hang my shovel off of my roof rack. Super easy to open/close the clamps. These rubber mounts have a bit of give, so you can't mount things too close to the body. I had the shovel mounted a bit lower initially, to get as close to the body as possible - but when the truck rolls over bumps, the rubber gives a little and the shovel will tap the body.
These things are very secure - I don't worry about them coming undone. Highly recommend these cheap, easy mounts.
Hell, they're so good they come stock on my motorcycle!
Quick Fist Clamps are super versatile, easy to use, and good for lots of things. I use them to hang my shovel off of my roof rack. Super easy to open/close the clamps. These rubber mounts have a bit of give, so you can't mount things too close to the body. I had the shovel mounted a bit lower initially, to get as close to the body as possible - but when the truck rolls over bumps, the rubber gives a little and the shovel will tap the body.
These things are very secure - I don't worry about them coming undone. Highly recommend these cheap, easy mounts.
Hell, they're so good they come stock on my motorcycle!
violation
Member
the word you're looking for is moo, like a cow. lol jk (it's moot)
i've thought about that, but he likes sticking his head out the window
RTT is coming this month. that's why i need additional cross bars. i'll be getting the FSR hard shell and annex to go along with it. but yea, sleeping platform will come out - i'll switch it up depending on what kind of trip i'm going on.
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BUcT-jUB6Xv/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Freeeeeedom!! I've read sticking your head out the window like this is like smelling in 4K ultra-HD. Dogs that love car rides are the best. And my dog. He's the bestest. • #bestfriend #toyota #t4r #trails #optoutside #california #overlanding #offroad #offroad4x4 #adventures #dog #dogislife #dogsthathike #goodboy #goberian #hiking #letsgoplaces #lospadresnationalforest #camping #nationalforest #Nature #mutt #muttsofinstagram #4runner #4runnernation</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by roGer (@wkendnomad) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-05-23T16:57:26+00:00">May 23, 2017 at 9:57am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote>
<script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
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Scramble
New member
I changed "moot" before I read your post! LOL
Not a word I type very often :rockon:
Here's two of the beasts! They can stick their heads out of the rear window.
My old dog used to ride in the back seat & their claws can destroy the armrests on the doors & center console.
Not a word I type very often :rockon:
Here's two of the beasts! They can stick their heads out of the rear window.
My old dog used to ride in the back seat & their claws can destroy the armrests on the doors & center console.
Attachments
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violation
Member
brown dog is like, "HELL YEA!"
black dog is like, "get in the car and let's go already"
i've hunted around for some sort of barrier between the front passengers and rear passengers, to keep my dog from getting in my way.. but no luck. i think the closest i can get is to find a raingler net-type product and adapt it. lmk if you know of anything though!
when my dog doesn't have his head out the window, he likes to stand on the center console, which completely blocks my view of the rear and renders the rearview and passenger side view mirrors useless. but once the platform is out, he wont be able to stand there as easily (the platform is basically the same height as the center console).
violation
Member
KC HiLites 4” Halogen Lights
These KC HiLite Halogens are great, bright lights that are relatively cheap. I bought these to go in the fog light holes in my new 4xInnovations front bumper. Unfortunately, while the holes are 4" wide, the lights do not fit quite right with their mounting bracket. The holes probably need to be about 4.5" in diameter to fit. Keep this in mind if any of you are getting the 4xInnovations or any other plate bumper with holes to fit lights. On their website, 4xI uses the square LED pods, which fit nicely but I wanted a round light for the right "look".
Halogens require a bit more amperage, but these match the OEM lights, so I just spliced the OEM wires to wire them up. Easy as pie.
As mentioned above, since with the brackets the lights are just barely too big to fit, they are tilted downward more than I'd like - to the point where they're not actually very useful. At least you can't tell when they're not on.
Bonus - they're hooked up to the OEM fog light switch on the turn signal stalk, which is nice.
These KC HiLite Halogens are great, bright lights that are relatively cheap. I bought these to go in the fog light holes in my new 4xInnovations front bumper. Unfortunately, while the holes are 4" wide, the lights do not fit quite right with their mounting bracket. The holes probably need to be about 4.5" in diameter to fit. Keep this in mind if any of you are getting the 4xInnovations or any other plate bumper with holes to fit lights. On their website, 4xI uses the square LED pods, which fit nicely but I wanted a round light for the right "look".
Halogens require a bit more amperage, but these match the OEM lights, so I just spliced the OEM wires to wire them up. Easy as pie.
As mentioned above, since with the brackets the lights are just barely too big to fit, they are tilted downward more than I'd like - to the point where they're not actually very useful. At least you can't tell when they're not on.
Bonus - they're hooked up to the OEM fog light switch on the turn signal stalk, which is nice.
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violation
Member
4xInnovations Rock Sliders
Let me start by saying I really like all of my 4xInnovations armor. I bought my rock sliders at the same time as my front and rear bumpers and skid plate.
There are two types of rock sliders: weld-on and bolt-on. Theoretically, weld-on is stronger since, well, it's welded on. But realistically I'm not sure it would make much of a difference. The benefit of the bolt-on versions is that you can take them off. I went with weld-on because why not?
I also got rock sliders with the kick-out based on the recommendation of Adam at 4xInnovations. He advised that since I have the Limited flares, the kick-out would be better. I've read that the kick-out can cause the truck to pivot unexpectedly on a rock though, as you slide down the length of your sliders.
The rock sliders arrive in pieces, unpainted.
First step was to weld the sliders together in preparation for paint. For paint, I used Rust-Oleum black bedliner spray. Make sure you test-fit so you weld your connecting arms at locations that can mount to the frame.
Then came time to remove the big, bulky running boards. Surprisingly, I was able to sell these on Craiglist.
And last step, weld the sucker on!
Let me start by saying I really like all of my 4xInnovations armor. I bought my rock sliders at the same time as my front and rear bumpers and skid plate.
There are two types of rock sliders: weld-on and bolt-on. Theoretically, weld-on is stronger since, well, it's welded on. But realistically I'm not sure it would make much of a difference. The benefit of the bolt-on versions is that you can take them off. I went with weld-on because why not?
I also got rock sliders with the kick-out based on the recommendation of Adam at 4xInnovations. He advised that since I have the Limited flares, the kick-out would be better. I've read that the kick-out can cause the truck to pivot unexpectedly on a rock though, as you slide down the length of your sliders.
The rock sliders arrive in pieces, unpainted.
First step was to weld the sliders together in preparation for paint. For paint, I used Rust-Oleum black bedliner spray. Make sure you test-fit so you weld your connecting arms at locations that can mount to the frame.
Then came time to remove the big, bulky running boards. Surprisingly, I was able to sell these on Craiglist.
And last step, weld the sucker on!
violation
Member
Seat Belt Replacement
Tools Required:
- Hands to rip back plastic trim
- 14mm socket
(I think that's it)
If you ever need to replace your seat belts, please keep in mind that the seat belts for the 1996-2000 4Runners are different from the 2001-2002 4Runners. I had the unfortunate experience of buying the wrong ones, thinking that all 3rd gen 4Runners would have the same seat belt.
The seat belts appear to differ only in how they are mounted to the truck. That being said, if you have a 1999-2000 4Runner and need new front seat belts, let me know!
Also, the driver's side and passenger's side seat belts are the same. eBay sellers do not know this, so they advertise either as driver's or passenger's seat belt. But now you know, so you know it doesn't matter which side you buy.
On the seat belt unit, there are warnings about this-and-that. You won't really be taking anything apart so while you don't want to ignore the warnings, they don't appear to be applicable either.
Removal and installation is easy once you get the hang of removing plastic interior trim pieces. Once again I have to recommend the Auto Door Clip Panel Trim Removal Tools, though for a job like this you just sort of rip the trim back.
It's been a while since I did a replacement so I'm working off of memory, but I have circled where you need to make sure the unit hooks into your truck. This is under the plastic trim.
There is also a plug that is locked in place by a piece of plastic. Make sure to unhook it.
I will be replacing my seat belts again, and will take better notes/pictures for instructions.
Tools Required:
- Hands to rip back plastic trim
- 14mm socket
(I think that's it)
If you ever need to replace your seat belts, please keep in mind that the seat belts for the 1996-2000 4Runners are different from the 2001-2002 4Runners. I had the unfortunate experience of buying the wrong ones, thinking that all 3rd gen 4Runners would have the same seat belt.
The seat belts appear to differ only in how they are mounted to the truck. That being said, if you have a 1999-2000 4Runner and need new front seat belts, let me know!
Also, the driver's side and passenger's side seat belts are the same. eBay sellers do not know this, so they advertise either as driver's or passenger's seat belt. But now you know, so you know it doesn't matter which side you buy.
On the seat belt unit, there are warnings about this-and-that. You won't really be taking anything apart so while you don't want to ignore the warnings, they don't appear to be applicable either.
Removal and installation is easy once you get the hang of removing plastic interior trim pieces. Once again I have to recommend the Auto Door Clip Panel Trim Removal Tools, though for a job like this you just sort of rip the trim back.
It's been a while since I did a replacement so I'm working off of memory, but I have circled where you need to make sure the unit hooks into your truck. This is under the plastic trim.
There is also a plug that is locked in place by a piece of plastic. Make sure to unhook it.
I will be replacing my seat belts again, and will take better notes/pictures for instructions.
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Bml_merris
New member
Good info
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
violation
Member
ARB Awning 2000 & Fourtreks Mounts
If you're shopping for an awning, you most likely will be looking at the ARB awnings as an option. I'd say 8 out of 10 people run ARB awnings. There's other manufacturers out there, but ARB is certainly the tried-and-true. Unless you want that 270 degree foxwing style, which is pretty pimpin'.
The ARB comes in three sizes:
1500: small enough to mount on the rear of our trucks, but why would you do that when the rear hatch will just get in the way?
2000: This is the one I have, an it pretty much matches up to the roof line of our trucks.
2500: This is the big momma, and will stick out in front of your roofline about 2 feet.
To mount the awning, I went with Fourtreks modular mounts. The guy who makes these is very friendly, and though he recommends getting two for the 2000 (and 3 if you get the 2500), I decided to get 3 just to be on the safe side. I'm now convinced that 2 mounts is enough. They are sturdy, very well made and professional-looking.
Here is the 2000 mounted on my rig, where you can see how the length works well with the truck.
Deployed. This thing is a life-saver in the desert.
The mounts.
If you're shopping for an awning, you most likely will be looking at the ARB awnings as an option. I'd say 8 out of 10 people run ARB awnings. There's other manufacturers out there, but ARB is certainly the tried-and-true. Unless you want that 270 degree foxwing style, which is pretty pimpin'.
The ARB comes in three sizes:
1500: small enough to mount on the rear of our trucks, but why would you do that when the rear hatch will just get in the way?
2000: This is the one I have, an it pretty much matches up to the roof line of our trucks.
2500: This is the big momma, and will stick out in front of your roofline about 2 feet.
To mount the awning, I went with Fourtreks modular mounts. The guy who makes these is very friendly, and though he recommends getting two for the 2000 (and 3 if you get the 2500), I decided to get 3 just to be on the safe side. I'm now convinced that 2 mounts is enough. They are sturdy, very well made and professional-looking.
Here is the 2000 mounted on my rig, where you can see how the length works well with the truck.
Deployed. This thing is a life-saver in the desert.
The mounts.
Bml_merris
New member
I have always found, based on what Ive seen on the forums and in person, that the KC lights look a bit big and silly. Does anyone else feel this way?
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
violation
Member
violation
Member
Anza Borrego American Adventurist Trip
A second trip back to Anza Borrego so soon after my first time. This area really is beautiful, and you get so much variety out here.
The American Adventurist crew hosted this get-together, which was more of a cap-out than a wheeling adventure. Lots of fun meeting different people, checking out various trucks and meeting some vendors as well. The main event was a dutch oven competition / potluck dinner and a raffle.
Lots of friendly people, and of course everyone loves talking about their trucks. Most interesting was the various hot water set-ups folks had in their rigs. Definitely more of a chill-out event than anything else. Seems like a good group of them knew each other but I only tagged along with friends who have done other American Adventurist events.
Most people camped in little groups with their own friends, and we did the same. Whisky thoroughly enjoyed himself. Still got pretty hot, and he was smart enough to dig himself a little spot in the shade to relax.
Lesson learned
- when going out on these types of events, don't let the dog run around unleashed. He'll go to other people's sites and try to lick up any cooking grease, whether on the ground or on their cooking gear. Gross.
A second trip back to Anza Borrego so soon after my first time. This area really is beautiful, and you get so much variety out here.
The American Adventurist crew hosted this get-together, which was more of a cap-out than a wheeling adventure. Lots of fun meeting different people, checking out various trucks and meeting some vendors as well. The main event was a dutch oven competition / potluck dinner and a raffle.
Lots of friendly people, and of course everyone loves talking about their trucks. Most interesting was the various hot water set-ups folks had in their rigs. Definitely more of a chill-out event than anything else. Seems like a good group of them knew each other but I only tagged along with friends who have done other American Adventurist events.
Most people camped in little groups with their own friends, and we did the same. Whisky thoroughly enjoyed himself. Still got pretty hot, and he was smart enough to dig himself a little spot in the shade to relax.
Lesson learned
- when going out on these types of events, don't let the dog run around unleashed. He'll go to other people's sites and try to lick up any cooking grease, whether on the ground or on their cooking gear. Gross.
Oneluv13T4R
New member
Your on the wrong forum then and should kick rocks and beat it. You've got some nerve going on someone's build thread just to make rude remarks, just zip your lip if you dont have a question or a compliment to make.
nope. just drawing inspiration from the days gone by.
Not sure if I'd run them or not, but damn they look cool as shit and like you said, kinda takes you back and I can surely appreciate that! Any pictures of them on at night??!?! Would love to see that, perhaps standing about twenty feet from the side so we can see the 4runner in the pic, wooo!
