2001 4Runner build/fix log

[tx_shooter]

you should probably run some good 14guage or better cables to the back (to power you future ARB beer fridge) while you are replacing crummy wiring..

and remove those damn running boards!

I am now thinking about running some decent gauge cable to the back for a power point if I build a short cargo box for the cargo area. But for now I finally got rid of the steps. The Shrockworks sliders are installed. They are not hard to do but I am glad they are done. I do have a CBI ditch light bracket for the CB antenna to mount but I want to wait until I have the antenna cable in hand to deal with it all at one time.

Now I am thinking about fabbing up some protection for the rear shocks. I remember seeing where somebody used to make them but have not seen them for sale. It should be easy enough to fab up a partial box out of plate or heavy tube with clearance for the important stuff.

 

[Silverback]

Looking good!

 

[drew02a]

I ran 0 Guage back to my cargo bay to connect compressor an 1500W inverter

 

[taco4x4rar]

Wow that's a terrible shock design, any way they could be moved up even with the axle or even on top of it

 

[tx_shooter]

I have not seen any successful relocations that did not involve a complete redesign. Considering the 4R is mostly a DD I think some armor around it should me okay until it ever gets the "trails only" stamp.

 

[TacoXpo]

I have not seen any successful relocations that did not involve a complete redesign. Considering the 4R is mostly a DD I think some armor around it should me okay until it ever gets the "trails only" stamp.

^^^ This. I would love the time and money to strip off the body, build a purpose built frame and suspension.

 

[tx_shooter]

At that point I would just keep the body; drop in a V8, dual cases, tons, and a tube frame with lots of travel. But then what fun would that be?

 

[TacoXpo]

 

[tx_shooter]

Saving for research.. http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/133233-outboarding-rear-shocks.html

 

[tx_shooter]

After the trip to Big Bend a few items have come up that need to be addressed.

1 - when loaded down the trans makes a crap load of heat that even in 40 degree weather the cooler on front cannot keep up with. I am looking to rebuild it with the Level 10 bulletproof kit when the money becomes available. (ie hopefully tax refund)

2 - truck communication: While I think a CB radio mounted in the truck would still be a great option for most trips I now easily see the need for a HAM radio option when "way out there". I need to get the CB radio done pretty quick.

3 - build a short rack to carry the hi-lift jack and a few other tools around when on the trails that is easily removable and secure.

4 - Skid plates are needed before bumpers. Bumpers may look cooler but nothing I did last week really touched them; all the brush I drove over would have been kept down with skid plates.

5 - steering upgrades to make the stock steering a little stronger for trails. Just preventative actions before something simple breaks in the middle of no where.



Will add to this as it is thought of this week. Hopefully will clean this list up as the solutions are implemented.

 

[Oswego]

I'd get a cospas sarsat beacon https://www.cospas-sarsat.int/en/ if I was way out there. Heck I was thinking of getting one for myself and I'm never more than 20 miles from society over here.

 

[Silverback]

Is that like those SPOT things? Don't see SPOT on the list on their webpage but it seems similar.

This one seems kinda cool. I like that you can send brief messages via text to any phone number. "yes honey I'm still alive" or "No bitch I'm not coming back"

http://www.amazon.com/Delorme-AG-00...C_UL160_SR99,160_&refRID=022C6X5QH2BWGVGP3AM4

 

[tx_shooter]

Considering the price of either of those options I am not so sure I would not mind just staying off the grid.


This morning I was able to get a new radiator/ hoses installed in the 4R and plumbed the stock trans cooler back inline before the auxiliary cooler. The end result is I need to clean out my garage. I spent almost as much time wrenching as I did clearing space.

 

[tex]

Sounds like you need to sell some stuff on CL.

 

[Anathollo]

Is that like those SPOT things? Don't see SPOT on the list on their webpage but it seems similar.

This one seems kinda cool. I like that you can send brief messages via text to any phone number. "yes honey I'm still alive" or "No bitch I'm not coming back"

http://www.amazon.com/Delorme-AG-00...C_UL160_SR99,160_&refRID=022C6X5QH2BWGVGP3AM4

I would love one of these but the monthly/yearly plan costs...

 

[balakay]

Yeah if I remember right, it's like $150/year :eek:

 

[TacoXpo]

I would love one of these but the monthly/yearly plan costs...

Ding! Ding!!! ding! I do go to places that I would like to have it but I usually have enough food and Z with me so, it means it would take a few extra days for someone to find me.

 

[TacoXpo]

I used that exact unit with Toy in Baja - great device. This one does not need a subscription.... I think

http://www.rei.com/product/843146/a...D=120217890000772244&lsft=cm_mmc:cse_PLA_GOOG

 

[Silverback]

Hmm. I didn't see a scrip required. Need to do more digging

 

[Anathollo]

Ding! Ding!!! ding! I do go to places that I would like to have it but I usually have enough food and Z with me so, it means it would take a few extra days for someone to find me.

Well you can rent Sat phones too. My stepdad used to rent them when he would go on 2 week fishing trips in the middle of nowhere.