4X4 Noobie Needs help with EXPEDITION 4RUNNER Project Plans

[ironhippy]

Since you're set on a 4runner, keep looking around at the forums and see if you can find a 4runner mostly built already.

Here is one for sale for 10 k that has a lot of what you want already done (and is nicely done as well):

1999 4Runner Limited 4WD Elocker - TTORA Forum

It might be a bit of a pain to import it from the southern US, but you would be getting a rust free truck and you'd still be saving money compared to doing the mods yourself.

 

[drinknmolson]

If you were here in denver I would point you toward Slee offroad in golden, check their webiste: Sleeoffroad.com - Toyota SUV Off-Road Outfitters they have built some sick expedition vehicles!

If it were me I would find a '99 sport 5 speed manual to start and put some OME 882's up front 890's in the rear (from slee) a 2" BL some 35" bfg KM2's an ARB air locker in the front and addicted off road front winch mount bumper and sliders (Addicted Offroad) a rear bumper with tire carrier from Irbis (Irbis Offroad) I like what people have done with rola roof racks, I currently have an expedition rack that attaches to my thule rack and I like it for the versatility and ease of removal and it would be so easy to add lights to when I get around to it. when it comes to cb's, GPS, and all the interior goodies that would take some shopping around but I would really love to see this truck when you get it done and how much coin you end up spending on it. With where you are going and what you plan on doing I would maybe skip the BFG's and just get some of these: Welcome to MATTRACKS rubber track conversions systems for 4x4 vehicles

good luck!!

 

[ironhippy]

mattracks would be awesome, I've read they're not great on hills though?

I would love to get a set to ride the snowmobile trails around here. I wonder if the snowmobile clubs will let me join with a truck.....

 

[KokaneeRanger]

Since you're set on a 4runner, keep looking around at the forums and see if you can find a 4runner mostly built already.

Here is one for sale for 10 k that has a lot of what you want already done (and is nicely done as well):

1999 4Runner Limited 4WD Elocker - TTORA Forum

It might be a bit of a pain to import it from the southern US, but you would be getting a rust free truck and you'd still be saving money compared to doing the mods yourself.

good point, that is a possibility, although wen you mod something, You want to do it on your own to make sure everything is the way u want... although it is a good possibility that I may go that route to save $$..

If you were here in denver I would point you toward Slee offroad in golden, check their webiste: Sleeoffroad.com - Toyota SUV Off-Road Outfitters they have built some sick expedition vehicles!

If it were me I would find a '99 sport 5 speed manual to start and put some OME 882's up front 890's in the rear (from slee) a 2" BL some 35" bfg KM2's an ARB air locker in the front and addicted off road front winch mount bumper and sliders (Addicted Offroad) a rear bumper with tire carrier from Irbis (Irbis Offroad) I like what people have done with rola roof racks, I currently have an expedition rack that attaches to my thule rack and I like it for the versatility and ease of removal and it would be so easy to add lights to when I get around to it. when it comes to cb's, GPS, and all the interior goodies that would take some shopping around but I would really love to see this truck when you get it done and how much coin you end up spending on it. With where you are going and what you plan on doing I would maybe skip the BFG's and just get some of these: Welcome to MATTRACKS rubber track conversions systems for 4x4 vehicles

good luck!!

excellent tips, ill be saving that for future use. and Slee off road, I considered driving my truck down there and get it modded and spend a couple weeks in whatever city I can get access to a very professionaly toyota mechanic.. Becuase from what i ve been looking around in Vancouver, there isnt any "pro yota techs". Ive heard of pppl going to "North Shore Off Road" and "Trucks Unlimited" but they dont specialize in toyota. Serious off road shops but not toy specific.. If im dropping all that time and cash, I may get ALL the work done by a shop in the states somewhere. Maybe slee.. and hopefully they allow me to hover around while they do the work and maybe even let me get my hands on the action while its built up.. so I can understand how its put together aswsell..

mattracks would be awesome, I've read they're not great on hills though?

I would love to get a set to ride the snowmobile trails around here. I wonder if the snowmobile clubs will let me join with a truck.....

lol

 

[Gerdo]

Sounds like a fun build. I take my rig on almost everything shown in your pictures. That big ledge would be hard. You may want to narrow down your "requirements" some. There will always be compromises in a rig and the more you expect it to do the bigger the compromises you will have. An example: huge tires- bad gas mileage and much harder on the rest of the drivetrain, taller suspension- harder to get in and out at camp and higher CG.

Two recommendations. Wheel something less capable and build skills. Also build as much as you can so you learn the vehicle so WHEN something breaks you have the skills to fix it.

 

[KokaneeRanger]

Sounds like a fun build. I take my rig on almost everything shown in your pictures. That big ledge would be hard. You may want to narrow down your "requirements" some. There will always be compromises in a rig and the more you expect it to do the bigger the compromises you will have. An example: huge tires- bad gas mileage and much harder on the rest of the drivetrain, taller suspension- harder to get in and out at camp and higher CG.

Two recommendations. Wheel something less capable and build skills. Also build as much as you can so you learn the vehicle so WHEN something breaks you have the skills to fix it.

yeah, this is true. mr leary made it clear aswell.. the more the mods, the more the risk of something breaking.
but i am so vehemently into this project and make it the way i envisioned..
IF I can have 36" tires and perhaps customize the drivetrain entirely along with the suspension and cv joints to make them very very strong. Custom fabrication to ensure these parts are very strong and are so strong they are not vulnerable to the modifiactions.

IF that can be done, I will go ahead with this project... Ppl have said that anything is possible with money... If I can build this "DREAM RUNNER" under a 50K budget then Im all for it...

Time will tell what materializes from this... I hope it goes through. its mostly based on that 50K budget and the possibility of achieving a strong reliable vehicle I can take out on an adventure with those mods I stated...

hope it goes through. Id be ecstatic if this gets together..

 

[theizzardking]

I kinda feel like if you got that sort of cash you should be looking at another platform to start with, there's even companies that make custom expedition trucks in that price range , don't get me wrong 4runner's are great trucks and can be built for pretty much anything , it just seems with that money you can find something more capable from the box and get the factory reliability.

I say it doesn't matter what 4runner you start with your going to swap everything anyways , get a cheap clean base model and go nuts !

 

[KokaneeRanger]

I kinda feel like if you got that sort of cash you should be looking at another platform to start with, there's even companies that make custom expedition trucks in that price range , don't get me wrong 4runner's are great trucks and can be built for pretty much anything , it just seems with that money you can find something more capable from the box and get the factory reliability.

I say it doesn't matter what 4runner you start with your going to swap everything anyways , get a cheap clean base model and go nuts !

True,
but im just so attached to the 4runner.... If I started with another platform I wouldnt be as passionate about it as I would be if it was a runner..
The way i see it, Id be doing it for my shear interest in the 4runner...

I want to explore the outdoors and i know i would enjoy it very much regardless of which vehicle i take up, but ive always loved 4runners and i love to mod things to enhance their abilities, even to the point where it is considered overkill.. to me having it overkill just makes it easier to pass an obstacle and easier to explore where i want to go..

so i say to myself.... so why not put it all together and do it? id definitely love it, and probably never forget the experience for the rest of my life..

at this point i am just trying to see if all my wishes are feasible.. and so far id have to say the project is a go..

 

[gptoy96]

Since you're set on a 4runner, keep looking around at the forums and see if you can find a 4runner mostly built already.


It might be a bit of a pain to import it from the southern US, but you would be getting a rust free truck and you'd still be saving money compared to doing the mods yourself.

From what I hear, if you went this route, anything that is modified from stock becomes a huge PITA if you try to import it. If you could find a Canadian rig that would be a way easier way (although harder to find).

If you have the cash though, I agree with Kokanee, nothing like taking a stock rig and building it up yourself. Then you know every detail of it and no surprises from previous owners.

I can't wait till you pick something up and start a build thread, this will be a dream build for what I want to do some day.

 

[ironhippy]

From what I hear, if you went this route, anything that is modified from stock becomes a huge PITA if you try to import it. If you could find a Canadian rig that would be a way easier way (although harder to find).

Thanks, I didn't realize that but I guess it makes sense. Guys around here get harassed by cops in their modified trucks.

I guess I should stop dreaming about trucks for sale in Cali

 

[Nelsonmd]

Guys around here get harassed by cops in their modified trucks.

Hmmm, driving an unnecessarily large and modified truck? 4-wheeling for fun? That sounds more redneck American than practical Canadian. Maybe they are trying to harass you because they think you are American.

PS, I am meaning this to be funny, not trying to insult anyone, so don't read an insult to either Americans or Canadians.

 

[JohnsD90]

I agree with Mr. Leary, and was going to suggest keeping the tire size at a max of 33", i would suggest going onto expedition portal if you want the real experts, theres more over there that are like Mr. Leary.

 

[Maxil]

Just think of the monster trucks like Bigfoot. Now I know they are way bigger than anything most people want, but it shows what happens when you get bigger tires and huge lifts. Those guys have the strongest parts made on them, and they break stuff like crazy all the time.

Not trying to spoil your fun, but that may help illustrate what some folks are talking about.

 

[KokaneeRanger]

Just think of the monster trucks like Bigfoot. Now I know they are way bigger than anything most people want, but it shows what happens when you get bigger tires and huge lifts. Those guys have the strongest parts made on them, and they break stuff like crazy all the time.

Not trying to spoil your fun, but that may help illustrate what some folks are talking about.

I completely agree.. but im a stubborn bas**** when it comes to something ive got my mind set on..
The only thing at this moment that will stop me would be
1. incredible cost
2. the possibility of doing this mod


IF parts will break more if i go 35" or 36" tires then I will rebuild everyting to make it stronger, if stuff still breaks, ill learn how to fix it and carry extra parts on me...

if that above statement is NOT possible for me to do, then I will change my project plan.
IF it is possible for me to do then I will go forth with this project..

I found a website of a photographer and a 4runner. Literally I see this person as a mirror image of me. he drives around enjoying his love for the outdoors and takes pictures... and hes got a 4runner. literally my twin..
hes running 35" and looks like hes been around to take a bunch of pictures so the 35s must be working out for him... I plan on having a very very similar setup as this dude.. check out his website... very cool:
NEW MEXICO BACKROADS: TRUCK


It will take me some time to get started on this project, but once it gets started ill devote my entire time and energy to it and get it done asap...

I want to start on this project This year, preferably in the summer time.

 

[brian2sun]

A few thoughts for ya...
I wouldn't go for 35s on an expedition vehicle for a few reasons, the biggest being mpgs. You're going to be covering vast distances right, and even with 33s don't expect to get more than ~225-250 miles per tank in 2HI on paved roads. If you're using 4HI and 4LO a lot, and that number can drop to 150 or 160 per tank easily. With 35s, take about another 10% off those #s.

35s also put much more stress on the CVs. If you end up locking the front diff (which is madatory IMO for a vehicle that you're bringing into unknown terrain), the combo of a front diff locker and 35s on our IFS can really put some stress on the drivetrain.

People just don't "build up" our IFS with stronger drivetrain parts. They do a SAS if they want more strength. SFAs also wheel better besides being stronger. Many people keep their IFS on an expedition truck because the on road manners when you're traveling long distances are better than a solid axle. Most expedition trucks aren't there primarily to climb rocks either (although they still can), so you might find yourself not needing a SFA enough to warrant loosing the IFS handling. My IFS surprises people all the time on the tougher trails so it can still be very cpapable. Selectable front and rear lockers (ARBs) in an IFS 4runner with 33.5x10s (255/85/16s) and a mild lift is the way to go for expedition IMO. Any kind of front and rear lockers in a SFA 4runner with 37s and only as much lift as you need to clear them is the way to go for hard core rock crawling. Either vehicle should have good armor and lower gears as well.

I highly recommend NOT buying an already built rig for a few reasons also...
Chances are somebody already wheeled the holy hell out of it and may have abused it badly (you just don't know). Also (and most importantly), you learn vital info about your truck when you install mods and work on it yourself. Without this knowledge at some point you'll probably find yourself on the trail with a pending repair that you don't know how the hell to fix. Would you be able to replace a CV on the trail? If not, things like that should be learned before you venture out on big trips.

For $50K, the sky's the limit. You could literally build 3 or 4 very capable expedition or rock crawling 4runners for that kind of $$. Good luck on yor build!

 

[Mr. Leary]

I completely agree.. but im a stubborn bas**** when it comes to something ive got my mind set on..
The only thing at this moment that will stop me would be
1. incredible cost
2. the possibility of doing this mod


IF parts will break more if i go 35" or 36" tires then I will rebuild everyting to make it stronger, if stuff still breaks, ill learn how to fix it and carry extra parts on me...

if that above statement is NOT possible for me to do, then I will change my project plan.
IF it is possible for me to do then I will go forth with this project..

I found a website of a photographer and a 4runner. Literally I see this person as a mirror image of me. he drives around enjoying his love for the outdoors and takes pictures... and hes got a 4runner. literally my twin..
hes running 35" and looks like hes been around to take a bunch of pictures so the 35s must be working out for him... I plan on having a very very similar setup as this dude.. check out his website... very cool:
NEW MEXICO BACKROADS: TRUCK


It will take me some time to get started on this project, but once it gets started ill devote my entire time and energy to it and get it done asap...

I want to start on this project This year, preferably in the summer time.

I am familiar with Jake's truck (NMBR). It is nicely built, but if you ask him about it I'm sure he will tell you about the steering issues he has had due to the addition of the 35s. Off hand I believe he has burned through a number of power steering components multiple times.

Some reading material to you direct from the Overland guru himself.

Expeditions West: Expedition Handbook - Vehicle Rating Guide

Expeditions West: Expeditions Handbook - OHV Trail Rating Guide

Not to sound condescending, but nowhere in the readings are huge tires listed as a requirement except for extreme rock crawling. As others have said, it is always a compromise. When you squeeze capability it is to the detriment of reliability. Start small, and invest in some recovery gear. I have made it up level 5 trails in my truck by winching up, and I got to the top faster then the rock crawlers who did it without using the winch. Then I pulled a cold beer and a sandwich out of my on board fridge, enjoyed a nice lunch, then drove home while they were loading thier rock crawler onto their trailer. You want to tackle hard stuff? Get some 5 foot bridging ladders, a winch, and some solid armor. You will preserve your drivetrain while enhancing your ability to overcome severe terrain.

I'll re-iterate the sentiment that takling a highly modified truck out on a solo unsupported expedition without being familiar with the workings of the vehicle is asking for trouble.

If I were you I would slightly modify the rig and take it around the world. I am currently trying to save up almost exactly that number in order to take a trip from China to Europe, then down to South Africa, then over to South America and back up to the states. You could do something like that with the money and have a life changing trip rather then a blinged out truck. Just sayin'

Best of luck with you build, and even if I'm kinda poo-pooing the idea of spending 50k on your rig... if you do it I would love to see it.

Leary

 

[KokaneeRanger]

I am familiar with Jake's truck (NMBR). It is nicely built, but if you ask him about it I'm sure he will tell you about the steering issues he has had due to the addition of the 35s. Off hand I believe he has burned through a number of power steering components multiple times.

Some reading material to you direct from the Overland guru himself.

Expeditions West: Expedition Handbook - Vehicle Rating Guide

Expeditions West: Expeditions Handbook - OHV Trail Rating Guide

Not to sound condescending, but nowhere in the readings are huge tires listed as a requirement except for extreme rock crawling. As others have said, it is always a compromise. When you squeeze capability it is to the detriment of reliability. Start small, and invest in some recovery gear. I have made it up level 5 trails in my truck by winching up, and I got to the top faster then the rock crawlers who did it without using the winch. Then I pulled a cold beer and a sandwich out of my on board fridge, enjoyed a nice lunch, then drove home while they were loading thier rock crawler onto their trailer. You want to tackle hard stuff? Get some 5 foot bridging ladders, a winch, and some solid armor. You will preserve your drivetrain while enhancing your ability to overcome severe terrain.

I'll re-iterate the sentiment that takling a highly modified truck out on a solo unsupported expedition without being familiar with the workings of the vehicle is asking for trouble.

If I were you I would slightly modify the rig and take it around the world. I am currently trying to save up almost exactly that number in order to take a trip from China to Europe, then down to South Africa, then over to South America and back up to the states. You could do something like that with the money and have a life changing trip rather then a blinged out truck. Just sayin'

Best of luck with you build, and even if I'm kinda poo-pooing the idea of spending 50k on your rig... if you do it I would love to see it.

Leary

Mr leary, You are quite the convincing one. I see what you are saying. I would love to do a trip like that. I dont know if Im ready for something like that... I dont think I have the experience. I love the idea of the ladders. I think my exploring days as of now are going to consist of staying on this Continent. Id love to do a trip around North America..
I still want to be able to cross an obstacle with ease and little mucking around/fuss.. i can get over with ladders and winchs, but to have the "ego" boost of just DRIVING over most things with ease, in your dream runner, with your SLR doing what you love would make it alot more fun for me..

I believe a part of me says
"i want to drive my big bad ass truck over some crazy **** and make it to a killer spot and enjoy the outdoors"

but you speak truth leary. and made some valid points. even though i totally agree with you, a part of me still wants larger tires. 35 or 36.... now in my head im thinkin of the possibility to rebuild the entire power stearing system.....

if i get stuck somewhere remote... hell, that wuld be an experience... but if i ended up fighting for life, ill know in my head "I shuld of taken Mr Learys advice....... DAMN YOU LEARY!!!!"

lol:jk:

 

[KokaneeRanger]

Selectable front and rear lockers (ARBs) in an IFS 4runner with 33.5x10s (255/85/16s) and a mild lift is the way to go for expedition IMO. Any kind of front and rear lockers in a SFA 4runner with 37s and only as much lift as you need to clear them is the way to go for hard core rock crawling. Either vehicle should have good armor and lower gears as well.
!

thanks for the advice,
perhaps my truck will end up being a blend of both expedition/rock crawling.. that is definitely what i need.

I will have to figure something out for a massive fuel tank.... some kind of custom fabrication. maybe sacrificing some cargo space for a 2nd fuel tank.