Solid front or IFS for my '86

[Indy]

I just took my 86 runner to Moab and had a blast. The only problem was I couldn't get to some areas that the stock FJs could get to. I want to be able to go on the 4+ trails with my buds but I don't know the limitations of the IFS.

Does anybody know the advantages of the solid front axle vs. IFS?

Who makes a complete swap kit that is reliable?

 

[fourwd1]

Are you talking FJ Cruisers or FJxx series Land Cruisers?

You should be able to go anywhere the FJC's go as they are IFS too.

A properly built IFS truck can do a lot (if you're willing), I've seen it done.

Think about some tires/gears/lockers for your truck and learning how to wheel that first.

If you really want to do a SAS check out All Pro, Marlin, Trail Gear, Sky Mfg, etc for complete kits.

 

[Indy]

I was talking about the new FJ Cruisers.

How high can I go with IFS? I would like to be able to put 35" tires on.

 

[ric]

A properly built IFS truck can do a lot (if you're willing), I've seen it done.

I agree, and was the others locked ? but a well built IFS with a good driver and good spotter, can go just about anywhere. are you going to be able to do "all " trails, NO, but you will be surprised.

 

[Indy]

I would need to build up the front IFS and am seriously thinking about SAS. I just can't make up my mind about IFS or SAS. What is the general opinion about either?

 

[ric]

well my opinion, and its just an opinion, learn to wheel the IFS first, then, when you have reached its limits, then do the swap.
Its a tuff dession, I wish ya luck

 

[Ulfr]

I'd go for the IFS, it's pretty okay if you know how to deal with it. SFA isn't quite the most necassary thing in the buisseness. I'd go for rear lockers and 38s before doin' SAS. Heck, you could even put extra transfer case before.

I've done SAS on my rig, but that was just because I wanted to go 'bit larger than most. The IFS treated me okay on 38s, but it was pretty worn out and needed a refreshment or a new axle, and I went for the axle because of the larger tires, as I stated above.

Of course, now I'm overall happy with it, but there are just too many issues to deal with it so it can be quite usable on road aswell as off road.

Bottom line, just get lockers and beef up the IFS, maybe 35s or 38s. (I'm not sure you could fit anything larger than 38s under there without some serious modification on the firewall...

But on the other hand, if you really wish to do SAS you can pm me if you need some more info.

 

[Indy]

Thanks for your information. I do believe that I will stick with the IFS since I only want to be able to put 35s on her. I have looked into the parts and I don't want to go too extreme yet. Maybe on my next project.