I didn't say daily driving.I daily drive a Honda or an F150.
Actually, you did.
You said "...daily grocery getting one day, running the Rubicon trail the next..."
Recipe for the best all-around 4runner that wheels hard and road trips.
- Thread starter bigdaddy2021
- Start date
Actually, you did.
You said "...daily grocery getting one day, running the Rubicon trail the next..."
bigdaddy2021
New member
LOLz
honda250xtitan
New member
oh shoot i forgot to add that note. We definitly need something. When wife is with me it's not too bad, she can navigate just fine. but alone it SUCKS holding the phone reading Gaia lol. Stopping isnt an option lmao.
eventually an ipad and mount only for Gaia is the goal.
oh and CB or wahtever you want radio. gotta BS with the homies while ABS is trying to send you off the trail lmao
mrblah
Senior Member
i run a rago dash mount and midlands GMRS..i like the setup. Doesn't clutter up my dash when the mounts are empty and not in use. Please excuse my lady luck...lol
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In all seriousness, it comes down with what you are able to put up with as a street vehicle once mods/config meet your needs on the trail.
Just my opinion, but I wouldn't bother trying to turn a 5th gen in to a serious rock crawler short of a SFA conversion. There are just better platforms for that for less hassle.
Just my opinion, but I wouldn't bother trying to turn a 5th gen in to a serious rock crawler short of a SFA conversion. There are just better platforms for that for less hassle.
mrblah
Senior Member
expectations vs reality:
yup. a fully built 5th gen (not including extreme builds) will do the same obstacles a mild built 5th gen can, but maybe just a little bit easier with less body damage, but the mildly built 5th gen will be easier to live with on a day to day basis.
My situation is a good example. My 4Runner is my only vehicle.There are mods I would like to make or have made and reversed as I have walked that line on having something to do it all.
Weight, center of gravity and HP/LB have been the limiting factor to stay within my tolerance for something I'm willing to daily drive.
I live at 4600 feet and travel/wheel between that and 10,000+ feet while commuting over the Sierras pretty regularly. There is a point on the scale, after hanging hardware, where there just aren't enough horses to pull the cart over high elevation passes on the road to keep me from being frustrated and payload becomes limited having been used up with mods.
I have had rigs built up to look cool, and ostensibly to improve their off-road capability. Feeling more confident because I had that stuff, and pushed it a little too hard and broke out in the middle of nowhere. Mostly before cellphones existed, not that it would matter much more now, because cell service is still mostly non-existent in those areas today...
For me, I've kept my TRD ORP stock, except for tougher and slightly larger tires. Mostly to maximize it's fuel economy, which matters when you're a long ways from any gas stations, and you can only carry so much spare fuel. Also being stock, I'm not likely to break something out in the boonies, and then possibly not get back.
Mostly I like desolate dirt tracks and moderate 4wd trails. So for now my choice is working for me.
For me, I've kept my TRD ORP stock, except for tougher and slightly larger tires. Mostly to maximize it's fuel economy, which matters when you're a long ways from any gas stations, and you can only carry so much spare fuel. Also being stock, I'm not likely to break something out in the boonies, and then possibly not get back.
Mostly I like desolate dirt tracks and moderate 4wd trails. So for now my choice is working for me.
Jetboy
New member
I think the key is that less is more. Weight kills performance on and off road. So the first step is skipping all of the heavy stuff. No steel bumpers, swing outs, heavy roof racks, double batteries, etc.
What the 4R needs is good high clearance skid plates. Rock sliders. A winch. A small lift - 1.5-2" max IMO. 285/75/17, 34x10.5x17, or similar tires with a bmc. And a good driver. That's enough to handle the Rubicon, the dessert, and cross country road trips. That's how mine was setup and I did all of those things with it. The only variation on that I'd do is smaller narrow tires of I were doing more highway miles. Maybe drop down to a 255/80 or similar.
This is assuming a TRD OR. I also had fox 2.5 shocks. I'd recommend something similar of the desert is on the list of places to go fast. Otherwise most mid level suspension options would be perfectly fine. With an sr5 I'd want a rear locker added. Front locker would be nice, but I'd rarely use it.
My setup treated me well for a lot of years and a lot of adventures. Cost to build was pretty low. And it was incredibly reliable. What it needed most was as little more power for better highway cruising. And dropping back to a bit smaller tire really helps for that. Or a supercharger.
What the 4R needs is good high clearance skid plates. Rock sliders. A winch. A small lift - 1.5-2" max IMO. 285/75/17, 34x10.5x17, or similar tires with a bmc. And a good driver. That's enough to handle the Rubicon, the dessert, and cross country road trips. That's how mine was setup and I did all of those things with it. The only variation on that I'd do is smaller narrow tires of I were doing more highway miles. Maybe drop down to a 255/80 or similar.
This is assuming a TRD OR. I also had fox 2.5 shocks. I'd recommend something similar of the desert is on the list of places to go fast. Otherwise most mid level suspension options would be perfectly fine. With an sr5 I'd want a rear locker added. Front locker would be nice, but I'd rarely use it.
My setup treated me well for a lot of years and a lot of adventures. Cost to build was pretty low. And it was incredibly reliable. What it needed most was as little more power for better highway cruising. And dropping back to a bit smaller tire really helps for that. Or a supercharger.
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honda250xtitan
New member
the vivid racing tune we run seems to have offset the tire weight and some of the roofrack resistance. truck almost feels stock when its fully setup for a trip.
I haven't had my 4Runner for very long, but I'm slowly modifying it. It is an ORP and everything you listed there is exactly what I have on my list of things to do to it: RCI aluminum skids including the gas tank skid, RCI sliders, and Fox 2.5 with a 2" lift.
The only thing different on that list was that I was going to go with 265/70/17 AT tires, I figured sticking with the OEM size would simplify things. I do want to switch to lighter weight wheels eventually.
My only question to you is: you said no steel bumper. I have been going back and forth on installing a winch. When looking into them and everything involved, I've came to the conclusion that a hybrid steel bumper would be the best way to mount a winch.
I have been looking at the LFD hybrid steel bumper since it leaves the winch pretty accessible. Is there some other way to install a winch without going with a steel bumper?
I did see the hidden winch mount options too, and I do like that they save some weight vs the hybrid steel bumpers. The only downside I keep seeing mentioned though is that you don't have easy access to the winch that way.
Also, I do know that there are aluminum front bumper options, but I think if I'm going to go through the work and money of replacing the OEM front end I might as well get the added protection of steel at the front.
bigdaddy2021
New member
Sounds perfect for highway driving, inclement weather and 1-2 rated trails, but is this what you take over tough trails? Seems like you'd be dragging or needing a tug/tow everywhere.
If that's your recipe, though, and you've got some rough trail reports (Big Bear, Rubicon, Moab, etc) I'd love to hear some of your stories?
Humble Leader
Senior Member
here's what I would choose for a rig that needs to have good offroad chops but also be able to cart a family around and be used as a daily driver and road tripper
Tires (size/style): 33" being mindful of more weight that comes with a 34 or 35. plus I think you can fit a 33 in the spare tire location not sure about 34
Lift (size/brand): 2" and would probably go middle to high quality here
Gearing change (Y/N, type): Y, but not sure what type
Front locker(Y/N): Yes, E locker
Rear locker (Y/N): Yes, Factory ideally
Swingaway(for which gear): No. I would not get a swingaway because its a pain for normal daily driving. I would plan to fit the spare in the usual location, plus better weight distribution. I would get an aftermarket steel front and rear bumper though
Roof rack (y/n, for which gear): Yes of course, all the dirty items and things you will likely need but don't want to pack in the truck (air hoses, fire extinguisher, tow ropes, straps, shovels, jumper cables etc.). I have all this crap in my roof boxes. I don't even bother taking it in and out I just leave it up there lol. probably full rack aftermarket but low profile. maybe victory because it's aluminum and lighter, or greenlane
Rear loadout (setup/overall gear): maybe a small fridge that's removable
Spares(what parts): CV axles
Camp setup(RTT, Hammock, Ground tent): camper trailer hahaha
Armor(type): aluminum skids full coverage to reduce weight.
On-board air(y/n, type): Yes, ARB, I am biased but if I had bigger tires and wheeled a lot I would swap my single compressor for a dual
Winch(y/n, type): always, not too particular here, synthetic line
bonus: add a radio. I probably wouldn't get one that is hard mounted when a good quality handheld maybe with a longer antenna would work fine
bonus 2: console safe, I use mine more than I thought. if I'm stepping into a store or just want to lock up my phone or sunglasses etc it's very handy
Tires (size/style): 33" being mindful of more weight that comes with a 34 or 35. plus I think you can fit a 33 in the spare tire location not sure about 34
Lift (size/brand): 2" and would probably go middle to high quality here
Gearing change (Y/N, type): Y, but not sure what type
Front locker(Y/N): Yes, E locker
Rear locker (Y/N): Yes, Factory ideally
Swingaway(for which gear): No. I would not get a swingaway because its a pain for normal daily driving. I would plan to fit the spare in the usual location, plus better weight distribution. I would get an aftermarket steel front and rear bumper though
Roof rack (y/n, for which gear): Yes of course, all the dirty items and things you will likely need but don't want to pack in the truck (air hoses, fire extinguisher, tow ropes, straps, shovels, jumper cables etc.). I have all this crap in my roof boxes. I don't even bother taking it in and out I just leave it up there lol. probably full rack aftermarket but low profile. maybe victory because it's aluminum and lighter, or greenlane
Rear loadout (setup/overall gear): maybe a small fridge that's removable
Spares(what parts): CV axles
Camp setup(RTT, Hammock, Ground tent): camper trailer hahaha
Armor(type): aluminum skids full coverage to reduce weight.
On-board air(y/n, type): Yes, ARB, I am biased but if I had bigger tires and wheeled a lot I would swap my single compressor for a dual
Winch(y/n, type): always, not too particular here, synthetic line
bonus: add a radio. I probably wouldn't get one that is hard mounted when a good quality handheld maybe with a longer antenna would work fine
bonus 2: console safe, I use mine more than I thought. if I'm stepping into a store or just want to lock up my phone or sunglasses etc it's very handy
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bigdaddy2021
New member
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comtn4x4
Senior Member
OK I'll play too although most the good stuff already been said lol. I'll try to rattle a couple cages.
I'm going to assume this setup will accommodate 2 adults and 2 dogs. It gets very difficult to build our rigs for 4 people and dogs let alone more.
First off let's be realistic. 33's are MAYBE the ideal tire size so actual rock crawling is out. That'll minimize the need for armor and eliminate re gearing. As well, rather than carrying extra fuel just figure on getting it when needed, MAYBE a 2 gallon Rotopax for insurance. But really, we live in the US you're never really that far from a gas station. This isn't Africa or Australia after all. And another benefit of getting fuel more frequently is you can just use a cooler rather than a refrigerator/freezer. Ice lasts 3 days in a cheap cooler 5+ in an expensive one. As well, if you're in town every couple days re stocking it minimizes the need for water, which out here in the west is almost more important that fuel.
Tires: Method Bead Grip of your choice, 255/80 Falken A/T3w
Lift: 1.5-2" max. SPC Uca's and your choice middle of the road lift (Dobinson's, Bilstein, Iron man etc.) (King et all are great but rebuild cycles are too short for a daily driver. You'll own the middle of the road lift after a year so you can still drive your rig during rebuild.)
Gearing change Not necessary potential re flash. If you REALLY gotta have gears ECGS
Front locker: Unnecessary
Rear locker: Factory E Locker
Swingaway: No, however if you REALLY gotta have one Hefty aluminum unless your rock crawling. Then 4x4 labs
Roof rack: Whatever floats your boat with ladder. I prefer sides on mine. Gobi, Baja, ARB. Ground tent, Chairs, Plano cases with gear, sleeping pads, and sleeping bags, recovery boards, awning with room, propane tank, propane fire pit, Shovel, toilet set up. However you deal with trash,
Rotopax maybe. No hi lift for me thanks
Rear loadout: Drifta drawers (They're about 30% lighter than anyone else.) Cooler, water (5 gallons minimum plus bottled drinking water) food, beer (cans), tools, Bottle jack and extensions sufficient for your lift including a base plate. If fires aren't banned Silky Katanaboy and Hatchet, Battery and solar setup. Tow strap, kinetic strap, tree strap x2, soft shackles, D rings, snatch block, line damper, etc. etc. USB rechargeable personal lighting, Did I mention beer?
Spares: Basics only, we aren't rock crawling
Camp setup: I think I hit this
Armor: Hefty aluminum full under armor,Hefty front aluminum full replacement (Lo pro's are pointless. Aluminum full replacement weighs the same as a steel lo pro) Metal Tech Sliders.
On-board air: Under hood mount of your choice
winch: Badlands with Synthetic Line only cause it'll give you the confidence to actual use the truck the way you should. But realistically not needed. Wheel with friends
First Aid: Take a class and get learned how to use that fancy kit you got
Vehicle Lighting: If you really really actually need it and use it. A 30 inch bumper mount single row light and ditch lights. Stedi lighting from Australia. Great quality affordable lights. Exchange rate is great too.
Battery: AGM 27F. Fits in stock location and gives you plenty of extra juice for the winch. Also some sort of compact jumper box just in case.
Coms and navigation: 50 watt ham radio setup and appropriate antenna, Ham license, Knowledge of how to use repeaters and APRS. Off grid navigation setup of your choice with reliable GPS. Optional, Satellite Phone or Garmin in Reach
Protection: Yes. 10 mm. Oh bear spray for the 4 legged critters
I'm going to assume this setup will accommodate 2 adults and 2 dogs. It gets very difficult to build our rigs for 4 people and dogs let alone more.
First off let's be realistic. 33's are MAYBE the ideal tire size so actual rock crawling is out. That'll minimize the need for armor and eliminate re gearing. As well, rather than carrying extra fuel just figure on getting it when needed, MAYBE a 2 gallon Rotopax for insurance. But really, we live in the US you're never really that far from a gas station. This isn't Africa or Australia after all. And another benefit of getting fuel more frequently is you can just use a cooler rather than a refrigerator/freezer. Ice lasts 3 days in a cheap cooler 5+ in an expensive one. As well, if you're in town every couple days re stocking it minimizes the need for water, which out here in the west is almost more important that fuel.
Tires: Method Bead Grip of your choice, 255/80 Falken A/T3w
Lift: 1.5-2" max. SPC Uca's and your choice middle of the road lift (Dobinson's, Bilstein, Iron man etc.) (King et all are great but rebuild cycles are too short for a daily driver. You'll own the middle of the road lift after a year so you can still drive your rig during rebuild.)
Gearing change Not necessary potential re flash. If you REALLY gotta have gears ECGS
Front locker: Unnecessary
Rear locker: Factory E Locker
Swingaway: No, however if you REALLY gotta have one Hefty aluminum unless your rock crawling. Then 4x4 labs
Roof rack: Whatever floats your boat with ladder. I prefer sides on mine. Gobi, Baja, ARB. Ground tent, Chairs, Plano cases with gear, sleeping pads, and sleeping bags, recovery boards, awning with room, propane tank, propane fire pit, Shovel, toilet set up. However you deal with trash,
Rotopax maybe. No hi lift for me thanks
Rear loadout: Drifta drawers (They're about 30% lighter than anyone else.) Cooler, water (5 gallons minimum plus bottled drinking water) food, beer (cans), tools, Bottle jack and extensions sufficient for your lift including a base plate. If fires aren't banned Silky Katanaboy and Hatchet, Battery and solar setup. Tow strap, kinetic strap, tree strap x2, soft shackles, D rings, snatch block, line damper, etc. etc. USB rechargeable personal lighting, Did I mention beer?
Spares: Basics only, we aren't rock crawling
Camp setup: I think I hit this
Armor: Hefty aluminum full under armor,Hefty front aluminum full replacement (Lo pro's are pointless. Aluminum full replacement weighs the same as a steel lo pro) Metal Tech Sliders.
On-board air: Under hood mount of your choice
winch: Badlands with Synthetic Line only cause it'll give you the confidence to actual use the truck the way you should. But realistically not needed. Wheel with friends
First Aid: Take a class and get learned how to use that fancy kit you got
Vehicle Lighting: If you really really actually need it and use it. A 30 inch bumper mount single row light and ditch lights. Stedi lighting from Australia. Great quality affordable lights. Exchange rate is great too.
Battery: AGM 27F. Fits in stock location and gives you plenty of extra juice for the winch. Also some sort of compact jumper box just in case.
Coms and navigation: 50 watt ham radio setup and appropriate antenna, Ham license, Knowledge of how to use repeaters and APRS. Off grid navigation setup of your choice with reliable GPS. Optional, Satellite Phone or Garmin in Reach
Protection: Yes. 10 mm. Oh bear spray for the 4 legged critters
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honda250xtitan
New member
you guys saying stock wouldnt have teeth and would definitely have bruised kidneys doing trails we do in the SW. wide open fast paced runs with g outs that you cant see cause the sun is straight up with no shadows lolol.
i do miss the stock life occasionally, but every time wife drives a stock one (my sister has a stock trail) wife says how much she loves the stiffer kings and springs..
this brings up another point: upgraded bump stops. HUGE improvement, whether youre doing hydraulic bumps or the durobumps. we have durobumps in the front and king bumps in the rear and it makes you feel like you never actually run out of travel. its wild how controlled everything feels.
i do miss the stock life occasionally, but every time wife drives a stock one (my sister has a stock trail) wife says how much she loves the stiffer kings and springs..
this brings up another point: upgraded bump stops. HUGE improvement, whether youre doing hydraulic bumps or the durobumps. we have durobumps in the front and king bumps in the rear and it makes you feel like you never actually run out of travel. its wild how controlled everything feels.
Horses for courses. Everyone has different needs or desires. I have a KTM 550 MXC for high speed desert running. I've had seriously upgraded suspension on 4wd vehicles in the past, for the type of driving you're describing.
I didn't buy my 4Runner for racing Baja. It's just for desolate trail exploration, and not exploring it as fast as I possibly can.
It sounds like you've modified yours to suit your needs. Congrats.
mrblah
Senior Member
lol OP changed the title to reflect more specific scenarios because original title was too broad.
bigdaddy2021
New member
Buuuuuuut, THIS thread was started by me because I recognize that there are many who’ve gone before us who might have fun, wisdom-imparting input to give about a 5th built for rough use.
For example, we spent $600 on a tire carrier that is now sitting in our garage because while it offers some trail utility, my family started to loathe opening and closing it on a daily basis.
So we removed and stored it for possible future use. Live and learn. We still absolutely love our strike bumper from Victory4x4, tho.
So, maybe put on your adventure-hat and imagine what you’d build.
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