Ruger2011's 1986 4Runner Build Thread

[Ruger2011]

I recently picked up a 99% rust and 100% bondo free 1986 4Runner from Craigslist in Dallas, TX! I had a buddy pull the Carfax and it has been a Texas truck it's entire life throughout all 11 previous owners! The 4Runner is in great overall condition and I was pleased to pick it up for a little under $4K! It was all original when I picked it up last month other than the FJ Cruiser wheels, Rear AAL, and seats from a 95 4Runner! Here are the pictures from when I picked it up last month!

 

[Ruger2011]

The first mods were cheap and easy! I took off the top, bought a shifter boot cover from Ebay, and a new shifter knob!

 

[Ruger2011]

The next mod was replacing the carpet which was a weekend project! The easy part was disassembling-reassembling the seats, seat belts, console, and trim! The process of laying and cutting the carpet was challenging but I am pleased with the results. I picked up the carpet from Rock Auto who used ACC carpet that is molded for the specific vehicle.
More Information for ACC 1502160

 

[Ruger2011]

The next step was lifting the front to level it out since it had a rear AAL. I ordered a 1.5 Inch Front Ball Joint Spacer Kit from Toytec and took it to Smith Offroad & Performance to install in Carrollton, TX.

 

[Ruger2011]

I also bought a Front Bumper Valance from Rock Auto for $10 to replace the old one which was in bad shape! The spray paint almost cost as much as the Valance.

 

[Ruger2011]

The old shocks were in need of replacement and were maxed out with the 1.5 inch Front Ball Join Spacer Kit from Toytec! I ordered a set of 4 new Old Man Emu Shocks from Toytec! The new shocks with an alignment ride like a dream! I love the feel and performance of the OME shocks! I had to put the top back on since it has been raining for the past week in North Texas!

 

[Red Tintop]

That thing is beautiful!

What's next?

 

[Ruger2011]

Next is to score a nice used set of All Terrain or Mud Terrain tires on Craigslist! I am liking for 255/75/17 or 265/75 17s!

 

[joeynational]

Next is to score a nice used set of All Terrain or Mud Terrain tires on Craigslist! I am liking for 255/75/17 or 265/75 17s!

what do you have now 265/70? Thats what i have I would like to see how these different size tires look on yours

 

[Ruger2011]

what do you have now 265/70? Thats what i have I would like to see how these different size tires look on yours

Yes sir! I currently have 265/70/17s! I can't go any wider due to the tire is close to the UCA after the 1.5 inch Front Ball Joint Spacer.

 

[Ruger2011]

I finally got around to giving the 1986 I picked up last month a proper outside cleaning! I used Meguiars #2 Fine-Cut Cleaner followed up by Meguiars #7 Show Car Glaze. I was very pleased with the results and it brought back a pretty good shine to the original 30 year old paint. I am pretty sure it hadn't been waxed in years and the only drawback is the small door dings shine like a diamond. I am beat after spending 4 hours over the past 2 days bringing back a decent shine to the original paint.

 

[Chuckles89]

Looks great

 

[Ruger2011]

I was able to score a set of new BFG MT 255/75/17 on Craigslist this weekend for $450 mounted and balanced! They came off of a new Jeep Rubicon and only had 30 miles on the tires. I was very pleased since a new set from Discount Tire would run around $1,025 installed. They look great and the ride isn't harsh at all with the Old Man Emu shocks I put on last week.

 

[Ruger2011]

I finally got to test out the 4wd today and I was thoroughly impressed with the 4Runner! I have put 2,500 miles on this thing since buying it in July and my Tunrda just sits in the garage lol.