Best first 3 things to increase clearance?

[SoonerDave]

1998 4Runner. New to me x 1 week. Good mech shape, perfect body and interior, save for missing cup holder!

What are the best first 3 things to increase clearance? Is moving the spare time location a big deal? Bumpers? 3 inch lift and larger tires? Wheels are stock. As is suspension.


Thanks all!

 

[snivilous]

You can gain ground clearance by bigger tires, then improve angles (approach/departure) further by lifting it and adding aftermarket bumpers. Usually lifting and bigger tires go hand in hand, and then armoring it. That's the three things I would do.

 

[Brique]

Tires and suspension. Bumpers don't increase clearance per se, but do improve your approach and departure angles. Well, actually a rear bumper is going to get the spare out from under and let you remove the hitch, so yeah, a rear bumper might help clearance.

 

[MxwlT4R99]

Running board removal....the easiest, cheapest lift on the T4R market...


...And yeah, maybe that lift stuff and tires. :becky:

 

[T4R2014]

A proper lift and tires is the most effective route.

Removing the running boards barely provides a difference since the frame hangs lower than the body to begin with. All removing it really does is allow your rockers and lower doors to be exposed to the elements. It's better to allow the running board to take an impact before the rocker panel as well.