E-Man's build thread

[E-Man]

Hi all,

After being a non-participating member here since ’03, I’ve finally decided to put some love into my T4R and post MY build thread.

I’m the proud original owner of my 2003 T4R 2wd Sport V8, now with 113k miles. Aside from a rocking driver’s seat, she’s still rock solid and I have had zero issues with her. I purchased it in late October ’02 from Carson Toyota, who at the time was one of the first dealers in So Cal to get the 4th gen ‘runners. Until recently, the only real mod I did was a Magnaflow cat-back exhaust system which I installed back in ’05 or ’06. Fast forward to now:

Suspension:
• Truxxx 3/1.25 spacer lift with XREAS intact
• 265/70-17 Goodyear Duratrac (I love these tires!)

Audio (was JBL equipped):
• Pioneer AVIC Z130BT head unit w/PAC SWI steering wheel interface
• JL 8W1-4 8” woofer in the stock enclosure
• German Maestro 6x9 components in the doors
• Stock JBL drivers in rear doors, rear pillars, and center stage
• JL 600/6 class D amp under the passenger seat (fits like a charm!)

**install is done, pics coming soon**

Other mods:
• Magnaflow cat-back exhaust system
• Removed the charcoal filter from the air box
• Tinted windows

Mods to come:
• Weathertech floor mats
• Swap out the rear door speakers with German Maestro 6.5” components
• Dome light mod
• HIR or HID headlights
• Right side steering wheel buttons for Bluetooth phone control
• ARB locker with on-board air
• Demello sliders
• Demello front bumber


I actually picked up all of the new Icon suspension components and TC UCAs today and will be installing them Friday night. Keep an eye out for more pics…

 

[E-Man]

8/29 update

I was able to install my new suspension and Spidertrax spacers over the weekend. I couldn't be happier with how it turned out, and the ride is fantastic!

The install went very smooth and I was able to install it all myself. Only issues I faced were (1) the front sway bar endlinks were all worn and were leaking grease pretty badly. I need to replace them and am having trouble deciding between Allpro or stockers. The second issue was getting to rear XREAS union connector to unhook the rear shocks. They are tucked out of the way pretty good and took some time with a 12mm box end wrench to finally remove the bracket.

 

[Seatown]

Looks amazing...and beastly!! How's the ride compared to your last setup?

 

[E-Man]

Looks amazing...and beastly!! How's the ride compared to your last setup?

Thanks! I'm very proud that it turned out so nice.

The ride is a bit more firm than the XREAS was, but not harsh. "Controlled" comes to mind. It's very well balanced where my XREAS felt good in the corners but slightly mushy everywhere else.

 

[Richmelisma]

Ride Issues

I am thinking about having my 05 SR5 Runner lifted, and I like how you identified the differences in the ride. I do like the ride I get from a stock setup, but I also just discovered how good this thing is off road! I may hit you up later for more info!

 

[4Beast]

Looks great, great to see what mine would look like with the same mods. The wheel spacers seem to make a big difference, IMHO. Any change in gas mileage?