Keith Stone
New member
Fixed the thread with embedded photos.... plus new additions!
So, I purchased my new to me 4Runner on Feb 6th. Since then I have been busy making both cosmetic and performance mods and maintenance (although the majority have been cosmetic). The main bell and whistle with the runner was a locking rear diff other than that it was stock. Prior to me, it had been used as a daily driver, the previous owner did not even know how to use the 4WD, which I was happy to hear! I am interested in seeing where this adventure will lead!
Original seller photo
Original Seller Photo showing damage to rear bumper
The first night I had it, I removed the running boards. Just couldn't wait!!
When I purchased the 4Runner, the tires were in horrible condition. So, I purchased four used BFG Terrain T/A's for $100 off craigslist. They have enough tread to last me nearly a year or until I know what I really want to do with this beast.
Next, with the help of T4R member josh.bunch, we painted the wheels and back bumper.
Unfortunately, the central panel bumper we painted was from josh.buch’s 2000 4Runner and did not end up being compatible. 2000 4Runners apparently have longer mounting braces than the ’96 models. However, the driver and passenger panels fit like a glove. The only way his central panel would fit was if I drilled holes in undercarriage of car to match the longer braces. Since, I didn’t like the sound of that, I beat, bent, sanded, cleaned, and painted my original central rear bumper and mounted it. After quite a bit of work, I end up with this.
As you can see, as of yet I have not been able to make everything fit right and may never will with the remaining body damage. Oh well. Bought it cheap and love the character already.
Next, I began getting rid of the ridiculous gold emblems. Started with the easiest one.
When running your hand over the paint, you could feel the contaminants within the clear coat.
After I finish claying, you could already feel and see the difference. I did wax too, but didn’t get a picture before rain.
So, I purchased my new to me 4Runner on Feb 6th. Since then I have been busy making both cosmetic and performance mods and maintenance (although the majority have been cosmetic). The main bell and whistle with the runner was a locking rear diff other than that it was stock. Prior to me, it had been used as a daily driver, the previous owner did not even know how to use the 4WD, which I was happy to hear! I am interested in seeing where this adventure will lead!
Original seller photo
Original Seller Photo showing damage to rear bumper
The first night I had it, I removed the running boards. Just couldn't wait!!
When I purchased the 4Runner, the tires were in horrible condition. So, I purchased four used BFG Terrain T/A's for $100 off craigslist. They have enough tread to last me nearly a year or until I know what I really want to do with this beast.
Next, with the help of T4R member josh.bunch, we painted the wheels and back bumper.
Unfortunately, the central panel bumper we painted was from josh.buch’s 2000 4Runner and did not end up being compatible. 2000 4Runners apparently have longer mounting braces than the ’96 models. However, the driver and passenger panels fit like a glove. The only way his central panel would fit was if I drilled holes in undercarriage of car to match the longer braces. Since, I didn’t like the sound of that, I beat, bent, sanded, cleaned, and painted my original central rear bumper and mounted it. After quite a bit of work, I end up with this.
As you can see, as of yet I have not been able to make everything fit right and may never will with the remaining body damage. Oh well. Bought it cheap and love the character already.
Next, I began getting rid of the ridiculous gold emblems. Started with the easiest one.
When running your hand over the paint, you could feel the contaminants within the clear coat.
After I finish claying, you could already feel and see the difference. I did wax too, but didn’t get a picture before rain.
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This thread would really shine then.
