The Dark Knight 4Runner + Hilux 4x4

@Dark Knight awesome build, question what model Acura Wagon...? Do they hold weight..?

 

Thanks!
Acura TSX sport wagon. They hold plenty of static weight. Haven't had the chance to test with weight while driving with my canoe or paddle boards. With the new boat I kind of don't care to paddle much recently.

 

Thanks, I'll keep an eye out for a set. This is a good alternative, I want to mount my RTT.

 

I would be hesitant to put that kind of weight on the Acura bars. Static weight not being the problem, the clamps make me a little uncomfortable with that amount of weight while there is wind resistance. They are a little short. Get a Yakima rack to solve that issue.

 

I was just looking at a set, your 100% correct. I'll go with Thule or Yakima. Thank you..!!

 

And what would this look like without KDSS? My understanding is that you are supposed to get better wheel travel with KDSS. Trying to figure out if you are impressed with KDSS or not.

 

The short answer is yes I like KDSS. I really don't think it would look much different if I had the standard sway bars but I do feel the wheel travel is less forced with the kdss system. I also very much enjoy how sporty it drives when the system is acting as a closed system at highway speeds.

 

Looks like Linville Gorge

 

Did you ever get rid of the ECO bar ?

 

On my '14 the eco bar shows up on most info screen options. I'm not sure if you can turn it off completely. I just don't pay attention to it anymore but It does sometimes still catch my eye.

 

No, only with techstream from what I read.

 

Finally found a spring compression tool that allows me to adjust the King coilovers without removing them.

 

You have link to it?

 

These work nicely. To help out with compression, I compressed the coilover with a jack under the lower control arm after the wheel/tire was removed. This gains about 1.5” of ground over just compressing with the tool from full extended position.

$55 Shankly Spring Compressor Tool - Heavy Duty Build, Ultra-Rugged Coil Spring Compressor Tool or Strut Spring Compressor Strong and Durable ATV Spring Compressor Tool

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01M0UT55Y?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd

 

Question in regards to your suspension. Do you find the nose diving (on hard braking) has decreased significantly from the OEM suspension? I just bought a KDSS Offroad and find the vehicle nose dives quite a bit.

 

The nose dive is definitely less. I still have a little nose dive because of the spring rate, 550#/inch on my coilovers, vs some coilovers with higher spring rate. We can go deep down the rabbit hole here but the point is, yes, less nose dive with my setup with the current preload on the coils.

 

Great, thanks for the quick reply!

 

Rear matches front now. King 25001-279A

 

Still running the Toytec 2" coil in the rear? I'm curious, why that over one of the OME ones, since they have different ones depending on your use of it.

Also, where did you get the little extra bump stop for the rear?

 

Still the toytec 2” rear. It’s just what I ended up with. Mostly in part due to how they say “factory like ride that handles more weight without sag”. I would like to try some dobbins rear springs in the future.

The bump stop extensions are toytec also.

 

I almost traded for a Tundra Platinum today.


It was 10/10 for a used Tundra. Decided a supercharger would fit my needs better than a big truck. Got home and gave it a hand wash in appreciation.

FreshRunner is just like new.

 

I have continually fought the Tundra lust myself. I keep going back to the thought of hating the gas bill and trying to cram that thing into city parking. A utility trailer with racks for kayak/bike/camping goodies is now on the forefront to see if it takes my truck lust away. I just DO NOT want a 3rd gen Taco.

 

I have a utility trailer and it works great. The lust is still there, the want for deeper debt is not. 4Runner pulls the bigger boat well but not as well as a Tundra would. Just like you, I believe the 4Runner is easier in every day life.

 

Subd. Great looking build!

 

Coming soon. Pick it up on the 12th.


Excited to have a new toy. I’ll probably keep it a while, give it some TLC because I like a new project, then send it on it’s way to a new enthusiast.

 

What state are you out of? That would be an awesome truck to have....

 

I live in South Carolina. Had to go way out to find a 99% rust free hilux.

 

That thing is siiiick!

 

Lucky! That thing is siiiccckkk! I’ve been looking for one. Congrats!