@
adamlakesuperior
I'll provide input based on what I've done to my '06 v8 that I picked up about a year ago:
2) I'm not sure what suspension setup would be optimal for my specific purposes.
I bought the truck about a year ago and had BP-51's, OME springs, SPC UCA's, along with BFG KO2 275/70/17 on the TRD Pro Sema rims installed in early June. This setup works out to a 2.5" lift. Much like you I have no plans for off-road racing or pushing the vehicle to limits. I do however like to go down forest roads, just to see where they go, in search of beauty and a place to camp for the night.
This kit has provided a balanced setup that handles well on the highway (3k RT from Colorado -> California with my hard side popup), nicely off road (with trips around CO, WY, and the Eastern Sierras so far) and still well mannered for in town trips.
I too carry a small collection of tools and various gear in my T4R, I've chosen to keep the rear seats have built a modified drawer system pased on the free plans from The Adventure Index (
@
Bagel
sjustBagles
4Runner Drawer/Camping/Storage System - FREE ) with an extension to make a bed platform
I installed the drawers and loaded them out prior to having the suspension installed so that the springs could be chosen and BP-51 could be tuned with the load. My drawer system and bed platform weigh in at 150 lbs empty, tools and gear depend on activity and number of riders.
OEM XREAS replacement was going to cost more than by BP51 setup while not providing the enhanced capabilities. Here were the 2 packages I was considering:
3" OME Suspension Kit with UCA $1460 + Install and Alignment
2 x OME885 Front Coil Springs (use OME884 if running a v6)
2 x 90021 Front Struts
2 x 60004 Shocks
2 x OME895 Springs
3" OME BP51 Suspension Kit $3300 + Install and Alignment
2 x BP5190004 Bypass Coil Overs with remote reservoirs
2 x BP5160025 Bypass shocks with remote reservoirs
1 x VM80010009 Fit Kit
1 x VM80010010 Fit Kit
SPC- Upper Control Arms
2 x OME 2899 Rear Springs
I saved up and went with the BP51 kit for the easier adjust-ability. So far it has not been needed.
1) I need some new tires.
I recommend that you decide on this after you pick the suspension. With the Lift and upgrade to the BFG KO2 at 275/70/17 on the TRD Pro rims the only rubbing issue was the front mud flaps which were quickly removed. You can get a good idea for fitment of different sizes by entering in a pair at
Tire Size Comparison
Looking at the 2 you are currently considering:
265/65/r17 :
Diameter 30.6"
Width 10.4"
Sidewall 6.8"
Circum. 96"
Revs/Mile 660
265/70/r17 :
Diameter 31.6" +1" or 3.3%
Width 10.4" 0
Sidewall 7.3" +7.4%
Circum. 99.2" +3.3%
Revs/Mile 638 -22
3) I need some reasonably budget minded, utilitarian seat covers.
I was not able to find any budget covers that fit worth a damn. I went with the Coverking tactical covers that Costco.com had a deal on. (
Coverking 1 Row Tactical Seat Cover Black & Charcoal ) Costco was great to deal with since the order was a mess. They were able to get it straightened out to my satisfaction but it took a few calls and some back-n-forth between me, them, and Coverking. The MOLLE feature turned out to be nearly useless since I put in the sleeping platform the bags get in the way of folding down the back seats and are a pain to put on and remove. I'd skip these next time and save $100+. Cabelas / Carhartt also had some that looked good but were only available in tan or Camo a the time. (
https://www.cabelas.com/product/pc/1...80/2600960.uts )
I hope that this provides some insight for you and aids in your decision.
Boort