Final Update
Superflexes installed!
This will probably serve as my last update for this truck, more on that in a second. I finally got around to swapping the LC coils for some ToyTec Superflexes. The ride is slightly softer, and the truck doesn't seem to wallow and squirm as much under breaking. Also, the rake is much less pronounced now, I couldn't be happier with how the truck looks and handles. Which makes the following news much more bittersweet.
I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. Work has been increasingly busy, family life has been wonderful, and I'm really looking to decrease the time spent working on vehicles in the garage. Add a positive pregnancy test to the mix, and my plate is completely full. So, with a very heavy heart, I've decided to cancel my plans of a TDI swap. However, as I'm incredibly passionate about all things diesel, I've decided to import a HDJ81 from Japan. I actually just received confirmation that I did indeed win the auction on the below truck. I love Toyotas, so importing a turbo-diesel 80 series with front and rear lockers, in addition to factory winch, was a no brainer.
The new girl. Should be very clean after new paint!
The truck will receive a fresh coat of metallic gray paint upon it's arrival in Phoenix (ETA. October 15th) and a suspension refresh. Once my wife becomes accustomed to the RHD aspect, I'll be selling my 4runner to make room in the driveway.
Copy of my winning bid -- 699,000 yen!!
I really love what this forum offers, and it has certainly served as a home away from home when work was stressful. I'll certainly still be checking in to offer my unwanted opinion when appropriate. Thank you all for your help and patience with this project. 3rd gen 4runners are still one of the finest vehicles Toyota ever produced, and if mine were already diesel I'd never dream of selling it.
For those in Phoenix who've never been in an HDJ81 and would like a ride, shoot me a text 480.779.8307 and I'll make it happen. They are pretty neat trucks, and I really look forward to many more happy miles with the new girl.