Getting Started (again) Off Road

Hey folks. New to Toyota and wheeling. I’ve got a new ORP and want to do some wheeling in Colorado and Utah this fall. I’ve got some experience with Jeeps but not since early 1980s. Want to take trails but not trying to get in over my head. My truck is stock except Wildpeaks A/Ts. I’m NOT interested in lifting it, at least not yet. May be ok with some sensible armor. You guys have any recommendations for sensible protection for someone who will be on pavement 99% of the time, yet wants to be off-road from time to time?

 

Honestly, these are pretty capable as they come from the factory. You've already got good tires on it, which is really the only thing that you would need to address.

What I would do is invest in a radio and some basic recovery gear. Then, if you find yourself in situations where you're worried about your rocker panels, then I would think about investing in some sliders.

 

Welcome to the jungle.

Just my opinion but I would leave it as is for awhile until your sure you need additional protection.

Adding unnecessary weight will just impact your mpg.

 

Wheel it stock to learn what it can do as a factory build. Start on easy trails with friends. As you gain experience, you'll be able to decide what's important to you to modify. Trail Runnah made good suggestions about the sliders, radio, and recovery gear.

 

Here’s a demo of a stock SR5.

Pretty impressive.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6ARYqd9lQRo

 

I really appreciate the replies and advice. Many thanks. That white SR5…. Helluva marketing tool!

 

Appropriate line choices are going to be most beneficial to your situation. Get out on the trail and start learning, it's the best method to hone your skills.

 

Welcome.

 

Best protection to have around is the protection of good buddies with you. Don't got wheeling alone. The stock OEM engine and gas skid held up pretty well for me those can take quite a beating, rock sliders is definitely something you will wanna look into.

 

Here’s an excellent video of a stock SR5 taking on Hells Revenge in Moab. Proof that a 4Runner is very capable right off the show room floor.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=uMe5Vt9PnLE

 

I'd recommend some simple stuff (should be obvious but just a reminder) = I have a good First Aid Kit, a Hi-Lift, recovery strap, a shovel and traction mats. Kitty litter if winter. I have a plug in CB radio (as well as cell phones). An atlas if no GPS (I have both). Side rails (due to gimpy leg). You have decent tires.

Go out and have fun!!

 

Really good advice and I appreciate it. Many thanks, guys. I saw that vid of the guy with the stock SR5 at Hell’s Revenge. Confidence-building for sure, but… I’m not going to put myself in that stressful a situation yet, lol. I do have traction boards, 30’ recovery strap and a couple of soft shackles so I think I’ve got most of the the basics covered. I’ve decided to go ahead and put some sliders on now, too. Seems like good insurance against an inadvertent mistake. Thanks again, folks!