Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum - Better Late Than Never Build Thread

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- - Better Late Than Never Build Thread (https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/309087-better-late-than-never-build-thread.html)

Better Late Than Never Build Thread

Are build threads still a thing? Anyway, I recently went through several and they were a big help so figured I'd throw one up on my 3rd gen. I've had it 20 years now so I'm probably forgetting some stuff. I call it Project SportRunner. It has been one of my all time favorite vehicles and in the 20 years I've owned it I have only had to make two repairs - one oxygen sensor and one rear axle seal leak.

A lot of the work I've done is on my Youtube channel: Speedy's Garage - YouTube

and my website: Speedy's Garage

To keep it short:
Bought a 2002 Xterra brand new. Nissan is local and through friends and family I got a huge discount. I wanted a 3rd gen 4Runner but couldn't really afford it at the time. I hated the Xterra and looked for a 3rd gen after a year of ownership. Found a low mile (10,000) used 2002 SR5 4WD 4Runner at a local dealer and traded the Xterra in on it. I couldn't believe this SR5 had leather. I loved it from the first drive. It was a Certified Toyota which came with a 100K mile bumper to bumper warranty if I remember correctly. Never had to use it though.

I've had it 20 years, so I'll try to remember all I've done.

How I got it in October 2003 with 10,248 miles

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...ild_thread.jpg

How it sits as of January 2024 with 158,246 miles

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...complete_4.jpg

Performance
Detroit Truetrac installed in the rear
TRD Supercharger ~~Stock Pulley~~, ~~2.2 Pulley~~, 2.1 Pulley
URD 7th Injector (only used way up in the boost range due to water/meth)
Kept stock fuel pump
Water/Meth Injection (highly recommended) custom mix using -20 washer fluid and HEET
Tuned by yours truly
Deck Plate Mod
AFe dry air filter
ISR Removal
Addco Sway Bar front and rear
Tundra Brake Upgrade with Power Slot rotors
Stainless brake lines
Transmission Cooler
(no valve body changes, no converter changes, stock fuel pump, etc)
Trans has been fine for 15 years and over 100K miles on this setup

This is BEFORE the 2.1" pulley or water/meth injection that allows me to run around 7° more timing :cool:

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...unner_dyno.jpg

Suspension
Bilstein Tundra 5100 shocks front/rear
Tundra TRD Coils up front on the <s>first</s> second shock perch OME 906 Rear
Gave right about <s>2"</s> 2.5" of lift on my 2002 SR5 4WD on the front and 2.5" in the rear
Hub to center front <s>21.5"</s> 22"
Hub to center rear 22.25"
<s>Tires Bridgestone Revo 2 265/75R16 (that are shot with 60K miles on them)</s>
Toyo Open Country AT3 265/75R16
No diff drop, no torn CVs in over 100K miles with this setup

Exterior
<s>Ivan Stewart TRD Wheels</s> Level 8 MK6 16x8 0 offset Gunmetal Wheels
Factory Sport Hood painted to match
Sport skid plate
Removed factory running boards
Installed aftermarket tube steps custom powder coated gun metal
Satoshi Grill
Supercharged badging
Factory fog lights with factory stalk on the column (wiring was already there) rewired to work with parking lamps.
Motorized antennae failed (twice) replaced with Tacoma fixed antennae
HID retrofit headlamps with amber LED bezel rings and strips, bezel rings and strips wired to parking lights
All bulbs replaced with LED with adjustable relay for turn signal speed
LED Updated tail lights

Interior
Custom gauge panel and bezels for water/meth control and boost, AFR, trans temp. I had Autometer put green LEDs in the trans temp gauge to match factory dash a long with a dimmer to match illumination.
Gauges have bezels that aim them 10° at the driver
Green LED illuminated cup holders wired to come on with parking lights
Front/rear foot well lighting when doors open (bright)
Front/rear foot well lighting when parking lights are on (dim)
Updated head unit for bluetooth connectivity with mic for phone calls
Hard wired radar detector currently Uniden R3

Major Maintenance
Lots of oil changes
Spark plugs replaced 3 times currently running NGK Iridium
48,000 Miles 4/2006 - Lower ball joints replaced under SSC 50J Recall
60,000 Miles 1/2007 - trans fluid exchange service with Mobil 1 ATF, diffs/xfer case drained and filled with Mobil 1 75W90 synthetic, fuel filter changed
95,000 Miles - 10/2013 flushed brake fluid and replaced with Valvoline synthetic
148,000 Miles 3/2022 - Rear axle seals and rear wheel bearings replaced, rear brakes replaced, and axle retainers installed inverted to avoid future axle seal leaks.
149,000 Miles 4/2022 - Timing belt, water pump, all associated pulleys, radiator, t-stat, upper/lower radiator hoses, coolant flush/fill, all drive belts replaced including supercharger using all Toyota OEM parts.
153,000 2/2023 - Lower Ball Joints replaced for the second time
153,465 2/2023 - Diffs, Xfer case, Transmission, and power steering fluids all changed and cleaned power steering reservoir.
153,804 4/2023 - Valve cover gaskets, half moons, cam plugs, spark plug tube seals, and PCV grommet replaced. Painted valve covers wrinkle red. Cleaned AFE air filter. Changed supercharger oil. Cleaned throttle body.
154,443 5/2023 - Detailed cleaned and painted all undercarriage items, skid plates, spare wheel, suspension, and chassis and replaced any bolts that didn't look great with new ones. Used anti-seize on new bolts.
155,720 8/2023 - Custom Katzkin leather installed with heated seat elements.
157,248 11/11/23 - Full detail, decon wash, fallout remover, clay bar, paint correction, ceramic coating applied, restore and repaint fender flares

Upcoming Projects
<s>Rear axle seals, rear wheel bearings, rear brakes</s> Complete 3/2022 148,359 miles
<s>Timing belt, water pump, associated pulleys/idlers, and all accessory belts including supercharger</s> Complete 4/2022 148,632 miles
<s>Replace radiator, thermostat (170°), upper/lower radiator hoses, coolant flush with Toyota coolant</s> Complete 4/2022 148,632 miles
<s>Replace lower ball joints</s> Complete 2/2023 153,285 miles
<s>Adjust TRD/Bilstein suspension</s> Complete 2/2023 153,285 miles
<s>Replace rear sway bar end links</s> Complete 2/2023 153,285 and reused original front end links which worked great with the lift
<s>Alignment</s> Complete 2/2023 153,340 miles
<s>New tires Toyo Open Country AT3</s> Complete 2/2023 153,403 miles
<s>Diff/Xfer case fluid change with Mobil 1 75W90 / upgrade front diff plugs to Lexus with nut instead of hex</s> Complete 2/2023 153,465 miles
<s>Trans fluid exchange with Mobil 1 ATF</s> Complete 2/2023 153,465 miles
<s>Power Steering fluid exchange with Mobil 1 ATF / clean PS reservoir</s> Complete 2/2023 153,465 miles
Replace fuel filter
<s>Clean AFe air filter</s> Complete 4/2023 153,804 miles
<s>Valve Cover Gaskets</s> Complete 4/2023 153,804 miles
<s>Paint Valve Covers</s> Complete 4/2023 153,804 miles
<s>Change supercharger oil</s> Complete 4/2023 153,804 miles
<s>Clean throttle body</s> Complete 4/2023 153,804 miles
<s>Detail engine bay</s> Complete 4/2023 153,916 miles
<s>Paint frame and chassis</s> Complete 5/2023 154,443
<s>Recondition bumpers</s> Complete 5/2023 154,443
<s>Recondition trailer hitch</s> Complete 5/2023 154,223
<s>Recondition spare tire wheel</s> Complete 5/2023 154,223
<s>Recondition all skid plates</s> Complete 5/2023 154,223
<s>Recondition arm rest/console cover</s> Complete 6/2023 154,989
<s>Install new leather steering wheel cover</s> Complete 6/2023 155,078
<s>Replace Gauge Cluster Lens with new OEM Toyota</s> Complete 7/2023 155,680
<s>Recondition leather seats (maybe custom Katskinz?)</s> Complete custom Katzkins with heated seats installed 8/2023 155,720
<s>New OEM 4Runner Carpet floor mats</s> Complete 8/2023 155,720
<s>New OEM rear hatch struts</s> Complete 8/2023 155,720
<s>New Front Extended Sway Bar End Links</s> Complete 9/2023 156,940
<s>New Steering Rack Boots</s> Complete 9/2023 156,940
<s>Fresh Paint in Solar Octane or Inferno Orange?</s> Cost prohibitive, re-paint was more than vehicle value. Going with plan B.
<s>Full Detail, Decon Wash, Fallout Remover, Clay Bar, Paint Correction, Ceramic Coat</s> Complete 11/11/23 157,248
<s>Restore and Repaint Fender Flares</s> Complete 11/11/23 157,248
<s>Some Kind of Graphic</s> Complete 11/11/23 157,248
<s>Black out badges</s> Complete 11/11/23 157,248
<s>Extended Rear Diff Breather</s> Complete 11/11/23 157,248

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru.../trd_sc_bt.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...upgd_48_bt.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru..._cooler_bt.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...er_lift_03.JPG

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...upgrade_38.JPG

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...auges_1_bt.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...ner_hid_bt.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...upgd_41_bt.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...ed_tail_bt.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...rtesy_1_bt.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...rtesy_2_bt.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...l_cup_bt_1.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...gaskets_14.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...ed_chassis.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru...read/sw_1a.jpg

http://www.speedysgarage.net/sportru..._katzkin_1.jpg
.

Restoration projects started 2/2023

Lower Ball Joints on a scale of 1-10 about a 3.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2JdUvQF6_1Y" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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Adjusted the Bilstein suspension This was a difficult job in terms of getting the struts back in. Scale of 1-10 an 8 for me.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/47WqGG8Itog" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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I was curious how the alignment would look after replacing the lower ball joints. Verdict is in, I definitely recommend an alignment.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ol1Ws4q2l08" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Made the decision on the tires.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4zXp-4NTa_8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Getting ready for some fluid change, I built a DIY fluid transfer pump.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SWOLm3nV0Xc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Diffs and Transfer case fluid changes
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-EjdsAuc7RQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Trans fluid changed and it didn't look bad for 100K miles and 15 years
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N6eD2lr1UMY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Power steering fluid changed for I think the first time ever, and it looked.....WEIRD.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R2RWIxaY_Eo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Started on the valve cover gaskets. Removal. Scale of 1-10 about a 3. Just tedious.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ybns4R-J8M4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Got the valve covers restored. Changed the supercharger oil, cleaned the throttle body, and AFE air cleaner while I was there.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OvfYJuTLXj8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Valve cover gasket job complete. Pretty easy, I still say a 3 or so on a 1-10 scale. I'd suggest doing it over two days so you can take your time.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3NI8x2sAZl4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Cleaned up the engine bay. I wanted to make sure I didn't have a rear main seal leak.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EnjySRTfdgM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Starting to tackle the under carriage and went after the tow hitch first.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/v7Yx8WBJScY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Got the chassis cleaned up, wire wheeled, painted, and replaced a bunch of grungy bolts.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2DDpteRZGHQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Started work on the interior with the new arm rest and new steering wheel cover.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MCwnSMd0tAU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Replaced the scratched and blemished gauge cluster lens and polished the original to keep as a spare.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NOjNd0vMXfw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Installed new leather interior, heated seats, hatch struts, and floor mats.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IfEJAWlcxPE?si=OpIK5WT1pRhq7c69" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Always triple check suspension clearance when you adjust it. I missed something and had to make a repair.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MAxovH1gQ_M?si=K0CFqakvhekLT3_P" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Flares removed, prepped, and painted.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9fwykq5z-Ps?si=UPI0Oo72A7bkqMNW" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/epukgvjYduc?si=Xj4hFsKJwr52mKAD" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Installed some graphics.
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X_cAK2JMo54?si=7fecHXxj2kQL35ei" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Flare Install and Re-Assembly
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HndVR_YyUKY?si=M4mZIM9E1F8jYD-6" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Extended the rear diff breather, finally
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/epEg6Tdkk5E?si=RohzDOvfpOcWdkqr" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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YES DUDE!

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

Glad to see you're making one, that thing is a beast!

Surprised you didn't have a build thread already! I remember following your video when I did my first retrofit and have always been in awe at how thoroughly and cleanly you install everything. Your channel is the first place I go if I need inspiration on doing a project the "right" way lol. Glad to see you're starting a thread on here!

Quote:

Originally Posted by connorms (Post 3781256)

Thanks for the kind words, it's been a lot of years maybe I had a build thread and forgot :crazy:

Nice build thread. Mine is mostly just frame repairing and maintenence things. :)

Sent from my SM-A536V using Tapatalk

Nice build thread and great looking T4R. What tube steps are those?

Speedy's Better Late Than Never Build Thread

Are you running the trans cooler in series or solo? Fan or no fan on the cooler and what model?

Nice to see your build thread! I have watched all your 4Runner videos and appreciate all of your thorough and precise expertise with the work you performed in those videos. VERY helpful.

One of my favorite builds and I follow your YT channel :rockon:

Quote:

Originally Posted by drey6 (Post 3781674)

Are you running the trans cooler in series or solo? Fan or no fan on the cooler and what model?

Trans cooler is in series. No fan. I believe it's a Hayden. Box said Tru-Cool and it was a 4454 model. This looks like it might be the replacement: Amazon.com: Hayden Automotive 678 Universal Rapid-Cool 9.5” x 11” Add-On Transmission Cooler – Not for Direct Replacement of the OE Cooler : Automotive

Mine has a bypass so that fluid doesn't go through it until it hits a certain temp supposedly.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zhehan (Post 3781669)

Nice build thread and great looking T4R. What tube steps are those?

They were some knock offs I found years ago after Toyota quit offering the tube steps. Mussa I think was the brand. They came painted with cheap black paint and I sent them off to a powder coater for a proper finish.

Quote:

Originally Posted by 4x3Lander (Post 3781687)

Nice to see your build thread! I have watched all your 4Runner videos and appreciate all of your thorough and precise expertise with the work you performed in those videos. VERY helpful.

Thanks for following a long!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed_C (Post 3781727)

One of my favorite builds and I follow your YT channel :rockon:

Thanks!

Time to get busy...

<iframe width="350" height="622" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T-0G1vb9suk" title="3rd Gen 4Runner Restoration Project #shorts" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

.

Cool! I will be watching this when it is out!