Frame Restoration on my 97 (frame removal, repair, and upgrades)

[blain_gatterdam]

My rear LCA let go at 70 mph during a lane change last December. I have been searching for a decently priced 4 runner donor frame with no luck, we have decided the best method at this point is to just get the frame out from the truck and restore it.

I do not have a lift to do this the easy way, I have seen folks use 4x4 studs and cinder blocks to support the body after disconnecting it from the frame. Does anyone have tips on removing the body?

I figure the steering column needs to be removed, various electrical bits, and I understand 8 bolts hold this thing to the frame? Any other tips?

Figured I would document my progress for the next guy who attempts this. Right now there isnt a whole lot out there by means of a walkthrough for frame swapping these trucks. One guy put a 95 body on a 96 frame, and another just magically swapped his frame in 4 pictures.

 

[zgensler31]

I would search for singtoes v8 swap. He ended up pulling the body off of his 4runner and did it the way you talk about. Without a lift and supported it for a while with blocks, wood and tires I think.

 

[azcat90]

I would search for singtoes v8 swap. He ended up pulling the body off of his 4runner and did it the way you talk about. Without a lift and supported it for a while with blocks, wood and tires I think.

It did almost fall over on him though...