Hello, I'm a newbie at off roading. I just installed a lift and will be taking my runner on its first off road adventure in a couple weeks.

Was wondering if anybody out there had some recommended spare parts to take along for the journey? What are some common problem parts people run into while wheeling?

Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Depends on what model your truck is. A little bit of searching would probably help, we've done this thread at least a couple times this year alone.

I bring all necessary tools. Necessary tools are: all needed to fix or replace any parts you bring with you and basic hand tools. I also bring a CV axle, both of my old lower ball joints, all fluids, grease, jack, jack stands, tow strap, bungee cords, water, food and cigars. This may be overboard but I don't want to leave my vehicle stranded and come back for it. Plenty of posts on this if you search on here or google for other boards.

I just bring my AAA card.









But seriously, some searching of the forums will get you plenty of threads on this subject.

Tools and spare parts are one of those things that you will keep building as your wheeling level increases.

The parts list can be huge if you are rock crawling hard trails but fairly small if you travel fire roads. (a spare CV axle is pretty much a must)(please search "OE CV axle" and don't but parts store junk axles)

Tools also accumulate as you see the need for something you don't have. Start with the basics (what you use around the garage for normal maintenance). Wrenches, sockets, ratchets, pliers, wire cutters/strippers/crimpers.

I keep adding due to failures (mine and others on the trail). Things like hose clamps, tire plugs, tire valve stems/and tools needed.

Also carrying the replaced maintenance parts (ball joints, spark plugs, etc).

let me know when somebody else has a freeze plug fail. aint a DAMN thing you can do about that. the actual fix was JB weld and a piece of an aluminum can. so DEFINITELY add JB WELD to the trail repair kit.

First aid kit!
Maybe I'm just saying that because I'm an EMT but seriously, it could come in handy if something were to happen to you or one of your buddies.
Besides the normal tools and spare parts, I also always carry road flares. If you were to get stuck in the woods for whatever reason, they start fires really well.

Beyond what has already been listed, I would also plan on bringing everything necessary if you had to spend the night. You never know what can happen on a trail and despite having everything that you think you'll need to fix your 4Runner or get unstuck, there is a slim chance you will find yourself sleeping in the back of your 4Runner under the stars. This happened to a member here a few years ago.

Red Cone Recovery 9/21

I always take extra clothes, a jacket, a couple of MRE's and plenty of extra water! I can't emphasize the water enough. Even on day trips when I think I've packed plenty, I still find myself drinking it all. I also leave at least 3 things in my 4Runner at all times in order to start a fire. I have a lighter, wind proof matches in a water tight container, road flares, and a FireSteel (FireSteel.com - Best FireSteel) in my 4Runner. I also have hand sanitizer and a roll of TP to help aid in starting a fire.

Not to bring up a taboo subject, but I always bring a firearm with me when I go wheel'n as well. If you can legally own one and are trained to use it, I would highly recommend bringing one. You'll most likely be outside of cell phone range when you're wheel'n and it's not just the 4-legged predators that you have to worry about if you have to spend the night. Just something to consider.

Can't agree more with carrying a lot of water! You can last a long time without food but without water you would only last a few days depending on conditions. Although another alternative (also depending on your enviroment) is those water purifying tablets.