I'm going to start and maintain this build thread for my 2003 V8 SE. I will post links to any mods or fixes I have done or plan to do. I plan to make this build as budget friendly as possible. I'm hopping to show others what a budget build looks like and how good it will preform compared to the $$$$ builds. This is not my first build, but this is my first Toyota build. Future mods include, more complete suspension, 315's (35's), Sliders & Skids, and the elusive TRD 4.7L V8 Supercharger.

Background: It all started when I originally went to the dealership to look at a 2006 Limited blue V6 (233k @$9500). While I was looking around the lot waiting to check out the 2006, I noticed a stock black 4runner that caught my eye. When I asked about it, I found out it was a 2003 SE V8 w/208k (sold as SR5). It had every option available in 2003 (aside from things found on a limited), V8, Sport hood, spoiler, sport gray flares (already painted blk), tow package (trans cooler/class IV hitch 700lbs). The body was in good shape, a few dings and dents but nothing major, Rust was little more than surface rust. When I took it for a test drive I noticed it did have several issues that needed to be address. Bald tires, Loud blower fan, VSC/Trac lights on, 5 speed only had 4,3,L (missing D, 2), driveshaft clunk, drive train whine. This helped later in the negotiations, After the test drive I expressed my concerns about the condition and told them I would need to think it over.... My research for fixes on the issues brought me here T4R.org, I was able to find fixes to most of the issues listed above rather quickly. The next day I went back and the big issues didn't seem so big, After going back and forth on price, I was able to get my new to me 2003 V8 4runner for just over $6500.

Current Build:
5100's 5th gen Coils, 1.5 spacer w/4th gen coils
Volant Intake
Cali raised Tundra brackets w/BD squadron sports
Police style Bull bar w/7in round lights
Custom 4runner molle racks
SPC UCA's
Matte Bronze RR2-V wheels 17X8.5
285/70/17 Wildpeaks
RSG BMC
Roof rack
removed Mud flaps, side steps

Attached Images

   

One cause & fix for "VSC TRAC" & "VSC OFF" lights, Zero Point Calibration - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum

One of the first things I fixed was the VSC & Trac Off with the Zero Point Calibration. it was extremely easy and cost nothing more than 2X butt connectors, spare wire, and half a paper clip (still have the "tool" in the glove box). Find a flat spot to park and complete the steps. Next on the list was the loud blower motor $35 and 30 min later it was replaced, sometimes I have to tun it on HI just make sure I can hear it run. Spent $8 at the dealership for replacement HVAC bulbs, And lastly I dropped the spare and cleaned the rim (wasn't holding air) and remount the tire. I was Finally ready to test this beast off-road. In stock form the 4runner is extremely capable off-road and comfortable on the way to the trails.

Stock XRES, Temp Tags, 265/65/17

Attached Images

     

Love the pic with your dog.

With the first off-road trip out of the way, I took it on a 3 state 1200 mi road trip. After I returned home, I knew the next thing on the list was an upgrade to the oem radio and speakers. I choose to replace the speakers with a set a kickers (6x9, 6 1/2, tweeters), I picked up a used "simple" aftermarket touchscreen HU (no nav, bluetooth, apple play...) it has sat radio, and plays my dvds when "off the grid". While searching craigslist for parts I was able to find a brush guard "police style", it helped to change up the front look. I had a pair of "off-road" lights from another project that I decided to add.

Attached Images

   

One of my favorite finds was a used (10K miles) complete set of 5100's off a 5th gen, after a 2hr round trip I was able to get a set of front 5100's w/stock 5th gen coils already set at 2.5" and rear shocks w/1.5" spacer (total $120). I also added a set of used 255's ($120) and a no-name roof rack with 2 day shipping. one weekend later I lost all my XRES fluid, but gained 2.5" of lift .

Attached Images

 

After the lift install, I decided to take a little trip to test the on-road manners of the new lift. For anyone with a tired, old, worn-out suspension, I highly recommend a set of 5100's. Had to drive all the way down to AZ to find snow, the only issue the entire drive was the lack of 5th/OD. I was forced to stay in 4th the entire trip, not bad... except when you're traveling up hill (5% grade, 70mph, 3200rpms) my gas mileage dropped down to 8.6 mpg (not towing, light cargo load).

Attached Images

   

Why no 5th gear?

Derek V

It was an issue I knew about prior to purchasing the 4runner. I can put into all gears (D, 4, 3, 2, L) but doesn't want to engage 2nd or 5th/D. The only thread I've found with others having the same "shifting" issue(s), has to do with the control modular in the shifter.

2003 V8 In "D" but shows "4"

I haven't found a 5spd shifter at the junk yard yet to fix the issue. it's noticeable on the highway then in town, as my mpg in town are around 16mpg and highway 13 mpg. I'm in town or low speed offroad 95% of the time.