All ideas and opinions - '14 LE Build Ideas

[Hudge]

Hello everyone,

This is my first post to this forum, though I've been reading for months now. I am buying a 2014 LE with third row seats as soon as possible (I'm going through a divorce right now, so I can't do it until that's finalized). Divorce isn't any fun, but I now won't have to check with my wife before I spend money making this vehicle unique. Sorry, I wandered off topic a little there.

I'm buying this version because I'm a Toyota guy (previously owned '03 T4R), and it can accommodate all three of my boys safely and reliably. I'd sort of like the Trail version, but no third row seats; I'm also fond of the Blizzard Pearl color with the new redwood leather interior. This is going to be my daily driver, but I'd like to build it for adventures with my boys. They're young now (4 and 2 year-old twins), but we're already talking about camping and hiking and getting outside. Since it will take some time (and money) to make all of the modifications I have in mind, I'd like to try to get this planned as well as possible.

I know this forum is a fantastic place for tips, ideas, recommendations, etc., I thought I'd throw out the project to the community. I have some ideas in mind, but before I throw the money out there, I'd like to hear from you. Am I walking into a buzz saw? Have I spec'd something that was a disaster for you? Am I not considering something that should be on the list?

With that in mind, my plans are as follows:

Icon Stage 6;

17" wheels (need some options);

Duratracs (as big as are reasonable - maybe 285s?);

Front bumper with winch mount (right now I'm liking the Shrockworks version, but I think it's the only one out yet);

Warn 9.5 (anyone have bad experience here?);

Sliders (again, I like the Shrockworks version, but maybe I'm missing something);

Rear bumper, possibly with a tire carrier (I know the Shrockworks thing is getting old, but they do have a nice one from what I understand);

Dual batteries with IBC system (probably run yellow tops);

Gobi roof rack (is this a mistake? I've also liked the ARB version);

Rigid lights (front, sides and rear);

LED strips for rock lights, and LED replacements for puddle lamps and all interior bulbs; all wired to one bank (I'm wondering if I can custom fit an sPod - I think they're designed for Jeeps) into the T4R, making for easy access and additions - I'd replace the actual switches with OTRATTW versions;

ARB twin compressor with lockers;

To throw another monkey wrench in the situation, I really like the satoshi grill mod - I just don't know how it would work with the redesigned '14 front fascia;

And some other very minor stuff - weather tech mats, ARB fridge, etc.

I've taken a look throughout the build section, and I really like Jangoforhire's truck. The thing I like about it is that it's retained a pretty stock look, but he's added tremendous capability. I'd like to do the same kind of build, but I wonder if I lose some of the "niceness" with bumpers, front and back, and sliders, etc. I know it's a fine line, but I'm trying to think about this the right way before I spend a ton of cash making changes that will be permanent. I'm also trying to keep in mind that this will be a daily driver. I don't really care about the MPG, but I do want a reasonable car to take my kids around, have clients in, go on dates, etc. I'm not trying to have something that looks like a monster truck.

And with that, I open it up to you, the members of the forum. I look forward to your thoughts, questions, even comments about being stupid to consider some of the things I've mentioned. I'm hoping to get some better ideas, think about things differently, consider options I hadn't considered before. If you can punch holes in my ideas, I'd really be grateful.

If I've somehow missed a rule of etiquette on posting this, or if I've done it in the wrong section, I apologize in advance; this is literally my first post on this fine site.

Thank you all so much,

Hudge

 

[bimrunner]

Hello everyone,

This is my first post to this forum, though I've been reading for months now. I am buying a 2014 LE with third row seats as soon as possible (I'm going through a divorce right now, so I can't do it until that's finalized). Divorce isn't any fun, but I now won't have to check with my wife before I spend money making this vehicle unique. Sorry, I wandered off topic a little there.

I'm buying this version because I'm a Toyota guy (previously owned '03 T4R), and it can accommodate all three of my boys safely and reliably. I'd sort of like the Trail version, but no third row seats; I'm also fond of the Blizzard Pearl color with the new redwood leather interior. This is going to be my daily driver, but I'd like to build it for adventures with my boys. They're young now (4 and 2 year-old twins), but we're already talking about camping and hiking and getting outside. Since it will take some time (and money) to make all of the modifications I have in mind, I'd like to try to get this planned as well as possible.

I know this forum is a fantastic place for tips, ideas, recommendations, etc., I thought I'd throw out the project to the community. I have some ideas in mind, but before I throw the money out there, I'd like to hear from you. Am I walking into a buzz saw? Have I spec'd something that was a disaster for you? Am I not considering something that should be on the list?

With that in mind, my plans are as follows:

Icon Stage 6;

17" wheels (need some options);

Duratracs (as big as are reasonable - maybe 285s?);

Front bumper with winch mount (right now I'm liking the Shrockworks version, but I think it's the only one out yet);

Warn 9.5 (anyone have bad experience here?);

Sliders (again, I like the Shrockworks version, but maybe I'm missing something);

Rear bumper, possibly with a tire carrier (I know the Shrockworks thing is getting old, but they do have a nice one from what I understand);

Dual batteries with IBC system (probably run yellow tops);

Gobi roof rack (is this a mistake? I've also liked the ARB version);

Rigid lights (front, sides and rear);

LED strips for rock lights, and LED replacements for puddle lamps and all interior bulbs; all wired to one bank (I'm wondering if I can custom fit an sPod - I think they're designed for Jeeps) into the T4R, making for easy access and additions - I'd replace the actual switches with OTRATTW versions;

ARB twin compressor with lockers;

To throw another monkey wrench in the situation, I really like the satoshi grill mod - I just don't know how it would work with the redesigned '14 front fascia;

And some other very minor stuff - weather tech mats, ARB fridge, etc.

I've taken a look throughout the build section, and I really like Jangoforhire's truck. The thing I like about it is that it's retained a pretty stock look, but he's added tremendous capability. I'd like to do the same kind of build, but I wonder if I lose some of the "niceness" with bumpers, front and back, and sliders, etc. I know it's a fine line, but I'm trying to think about this the right way before I spend a ton of cash making changes that will be permanent. I'm also trying to keep in mind that this will be a daily driver. I don't really care about the MPG, but I do want a reasonable car to take my kids around, have clients in, go on dates, etc. I'm not trying to have something that looks like a monster truck.

And with that, I open it up to you, the members of the forum. I look forward to your thoughts, questions, even comments about being stupid to consider some of the things I've mentioned. I'm hoping to get some better ideas, think about things differently, consider options I hadn't considered before. If you can punch holes in my ideas, I'd really be grateful.

If I've somehow missed a rule of etiquette on posting this, or if I've done it in the wrong section, I apologize in advance; this is literally my first post on this fine site.

Thank you all so much,

Hudge

Sounds like many of the same things I went for but I chose 4x4 labs and wish I had gone icon lt. Sounds like a fairly nice build! You can see what I've done. I also re-geared to 4.56 and I wouldn't do it any other way.

 

[wfo9]

Not to be a wet blanket, and keep in mind this is coming from someone with limited off-road experience, but it sounds like you are going way overboard.

You won't need most of what you have listed and it will not be an ideal daily driver with all that on it. That fact that you want a 3rd row tells me you should keep the mods to a minimal.

I've done almost every imaginable modification to cars. I am new to 4x4, but I can tell you that almost every modification has a downside that comes along with it. Many are fun as heck, but its never a smooth process. The addicts won't tell you that, but there is always something to consider.

Just one opinion, but I would keep it simple to start with. Mild lift, wheels, AT tires, something to air down and up the tires, maybe sliders and a hiLift. See how that goes and find out if you really need a winch, bumpers, lockers.......

 

[Hudge]

Thank you so much for the feedback, [MENTION=89562]bimrunner[/MENTION]. I checked out your build, and it's completely awesome. I took a look at the 4x4labs website, and there isn't very much there to see - it looks like they specialize in LandCruisers. I didn't see a 4Runner bumper posted there, but I love the look of yours. Thanks for the tip - I'm adding this to my spreadsheet, and I'll continue to look at their stuff and maybe call Luke. Great tip - thank you so much.

 

[Hudge]

Not to be a wet blanket...

...Just one opinion, but I would keep it simple to start with. Mild lift, wheels, AT tires, something to air down and up the tires, maybe sliders and a hiLift. See how that goes and find out if you really need a winch, bumpers, lockers.......

[MENTION=106176]wfo9[/MENTION] - thanks for the insight. I tend to agree with you on some of this stuff, and while it's not completely rationale, I'm not sure I have the middle of the road gear. I definitely agree that the build I've considered is overboard; but it's a slippery slope. Every time I try to go middle of the road, I end up getting frustrated that I've compromised, and I end up spending double. I'd like to try to do it only once. I recognize that my OCD is writing checks that are expensive, but if I stretch it out, I'd almost prefer to do it all right from the get go. That said, I think you're right to go in phases. I'd do lift, wheels and tires, and see where I am.

Again, I really appreciate your time posting comments - I'm definitely still listening.

Thanks,

 

[1engineer]

Thank you so much for the feedback, [MENTION=89562]bimrunner[/MENTION]. I checked out your build, and it's completely awesome. I took a look at the 4x4labs website, and there isn't very much there to see - it looks like they specialize in LandCruisers. I didn't see a 4Runner bumper posted there, but I love the look of yours. Thanks for the tip - I'm adding this to my spreadsheet, and I'll continue to look at their stuff and maybe call Luke. Great tip - thank you so much.

You know you are going to be discarding the XREAS OEM suspension system right? The cost of that + the cost of all your mods listed above will run you $20K easy. The 4Runner is extremely capable in stock form and more than enough for camping and fishing with little ones.

 

[bimrunner]

Thank you so much for the feedback, [MENTION=89562]bimrunner[/MENTION]. I checked out your build, and it's completely awesome. I took a look at the 4x4labs website, and there isn't very much there to see - it looks like they specialize in LandCruisers. I didn't see a 4Runner bumper posted there, but I love the look of yours. Thanks for the tip - I'm adding this to my spreadsheet, and I'll continue to look at their stuff and maybe call Luke. Great tip - thank you so much.

His website is not up to date with what he has. Call or email Luke. Honestly, he does a ton of cruiser stuff as that is his fav Toyota but he has the runner stuff dialed in and can tweak it to the 14 headlights via 3D cad. I also have an 80 I'm building and the stuff he is fabing for me isn't there either.

 

[bimrunner]

You know you are going to be discarding the XREAS OEM suspension system right? The cost of that + the cost of all your mods listed above will run you $20K easy. The 4Runner is extremely capable in stock form and more than enough for camping and fishing with little ones.

Hmm. Yep! I may have gone overboard too, but I've still spent less than I would have on the 200 series cruiser I was looking at! Additionally, I like it a heck of a lot better. So really depends on perspective and what you compare to. OP seems to understand what he is getting into and the cost involved. Defo not for everybody though.

 

[1engineer]

Hmm. Yep! I may have gone overboard too, but I've still spent less than I would have on the 200 series cruiser I was looking at! Additionally, I like it a heck of a lot better. So really depends on perspective and what you compare to. OP seems to understand what he is getting into and the cost involved. Defo not for everybody though.

Yeah, usually when a guy just shows up here Icon Stage VI is not at the top of his mod list lol. I was just making sure.

 

[Hudge]

You know you are going to be discarding the XREAS OEM suspension system right? The cost of that + the cost of all your mods listed above will run you $20K easy. The 4Runner is extremely capable in stock form and more than enough for camping and fishing with little ones.

Thanks for the response, [MENTION=66316]1engineer[/MENTION]. I definitely understand that discarding XREAS suspension happens with Icon replacement - I also know the 4runner is extremely capable in stock form. I owned an '03 Limited for years, and it was completely stock. I had a ton of fun with it, but I'm interested in doing more with my next one. I'm trying to think about something that I would really like (which I understand is totally subjective). I'm also interested in participating in off-road adventures with my friends (most of them are Jeep guys).

If I'm going to make mods to the truck (which I will probably do in phases), I'd like to do it right from the start.

Thanks for your comments - I'm still listening to everything.

 

[Hudge]

Hmm. Yep! I may have gone overboard too, but I've still spent less than I would have on the 200 series cruiser I was looking at! Additionally, I like it a heck of a lot better. So really depends on perspective and what you compare to. OP seems to understand what he is getting into and the cost involved. Defo not for everybody though.

Saw the earlier post about talking to Luke - I'll for sure do it. Thanks [MENTION=89562]bimrunner[/MENTION]! Funny you mentioned the 200 LC - I was driving and deciding between the two just last week. Ultimately, I decided that I'd rather spend $20K on a new 4Runner build than $65K or $70K on a 200 series LC without any mods. The 4Runner will be completely awesome, and still cost less than the LC. I also have all of the same reliability and the third row seats. The 4R is a little smaller, and the LC is definitely nicer, but I think the built 4Runner will be closer to what I'm after. And maybe it's just me, but I think the 200 series LC's have lost some of their old flair. The whole design seems a little uninspired to me. I don't know - I know it's a completely capable platform, and it will for sure run forever. I just think the T4R is a better solution for me.

I appreciate your comments - thanks.

 

[bimrunner]

Saw the earlier post about talking to Luke - I'll for sure do it. Thanks [MENTION=89562]bimrunner[/MENTION]! Funny you mentioned the 200 LC - I was driving and deciding between the two just last week. Ultimately, I decided that I'd rather spend $20K on a new 4Runner build than $65K or $70K on a 200 series LC without any mods. The 4Runner will be completely awesome, and still cost less than the LC. I also have all of the same reliability and the third row seats. The 4R is a little smaller, and the LC is definitely nicer, but I think the built 4Runner will be closer to what I'm after. And maybe it's just me, but I think the 200 series LC's have lost some of their old flair. The whole design seems a little uninspired to me. I don't know - I know it's a completely capable platform, and it will for sure run forever. I just think the T4R is a better solution for me.

I appreciate your comments - thanks.

Sounds very similar to my take. I figured I would be in the LC for about $85k before I liked it as much as what I wanted with the runner. Tried to do a couple things to keep me happy for a few years (thought I could wait... wrong!) and ditched that idea in about 2 months and created what I have now in about 1 year from purchase to where I am now. The new design is why I am building a ’93 80 for the really bashing stuff and to teach the kids in. Makes a nice weekend wrench project and was the last model that had the SFA. Was also the last body style and design for the LC I thought was really great. Can’t wait to see whatever direction you go! Enjoy the process.

 

[FrontRange4Runner]

You have a very nice list of mods however I would humbly suggest that you work backwards. Instead of planning out every little thing, go get the 4Runner, take it out and see what you feel you needed the most (possibly sliders and tires\wheels?). Add those things and do it all over again, working down the list until you come to the point where the mod does not offer a big enough return on your $ (how often are you really going to use a front locker?). You may end up saving a bunch of cash on stuff that's just dead weight while you are driving around town.

 

[Alex T4R]

One little suggestion, look at Phillyd2 and Harper7 builds if you didn't so. They made very very capable trucks out of their 4runner and both of them have good suspension systems and not stage six. Not trying to talking out of it, but stage 6 suspension is an awesome option, but I wouldn't imagine what you would use it for. One thing I learned from those guys is adding important stuff and then seeing what else you need.
Good luck with everything and I'm sure your truck will turn out good.
P.S. Look for group buys and monthly sales and maybe other forums for better prices as far as suspension goes. I bough mine Icon suspension from Metal tech and they have 5% discount for forum members the code is "Blue Room" in the check out section.

 

[Hudge]

You have a very nice list of mods however I would humbly suggest that you work backwards. Instead of planning out every little thing, go get the 4Runner, take it out and see what you feel you needed the most (possibly sliders and tires\wheels?). Add those things and do it all over again, working down the list until you come to the point where the mod does not offer a big enough return on your $ (how often are you really going to use a front locker?). You may end up saving a bunch of cash on stuff that's just dead weight while you are driving around town.

Thanks for the post, [MENTION=87531]FrontRange4Runner[/MENTION]. I tend to agree on working backwards, but it seems like some of it falls into a lump project. I was under the impression that bigger tires (which also includes wheels) necessitates a lift. If I'm wrong, please correct me, but if that's true, then all three of those items happen at the same time. If not, I buy wheels and tires, and then when/if I do the suspension, the tires need to be redone to get the bigger size. I'm definitely in agreement that I should do it in phases, but that seems like the first phase (suspension, wheels and tires, and probably sliders).

I need to do a little more homework, but I wouldn't have to do stage 6 from the ground. I know a stage 4 provides the same package (I think) in terms of providing room for tires. Maybe I could go lower than stage 4 and accomplish the same. If each stage is an incremental addition, I could do it over time. Like I said, I need to review what's included at each stage of the icon suspension ladder.

Thanks for the advice - I really appreciate it.

 

[Alex T4R]

Thanks for the post, [MENTION=87531]FrontRange4Runner[/MENTION]. I tend to agree on working backwards, but it seems like some of it falls into a lump project. I was under the impression that bigger tires (which also includes wheels) necessitates a lift. If I'm wrong, please correct me, but if that's true, then all three of those items happen at the same time. If not, I buy wheels and tires, and then when/if I do the suspension, the tires need to be redone to get the bigger size. I'm definitely in agreement that I should do it in phases, but that seems like the first phase (suspension, wheels and tires, and probably sliders).

I need to do a little more homework, but I wouldn't have to do stage 6 from the ground. I know a stage 4 provides the same package (I think) in terms of providing room for tires. Maybe I could go lower than stage 4 and accomplish the same. If each stage is an incremental addition, I could do it over time. Like I said, I need to review what's included at each stage of the icon suspension ladder.

Thanks for the advice - I really appreciate it.

All stages give you the same heigh and adjustability, the difference between stages is more parts like rear upper and lower links and much more. If you want more suspension travel downward, I would suggest looking in to long travel. I have Icon stage 2 with MT tech rear Long travel and I have pretty big tires 295/65/18.

 

[Hudge]

All stages give you the same heigh and adjustability, the difference between stages is more parts like rear upper and lower links and much more. If you want more suspension travel downward, I would suggest looking in to long travel. I have Icon stage 2 with MT tech rear Long travel and I have pretty big tires 295/65/18.

[MENTION=86190]Alex T4R[/MENTION] - awesome advice - thanks for the tip. I'm checking it out now, but that would definitely save a bunch of dough. I appreciate the help.