Build Help

I've just recently acquired a 3rd gen 4runner with 307000 miles on the chassis, and 150k on the motor.

It has what the seller claimed was a 3 inch lift. I'm skeptical because the 265/70R17 ATs rub when parking.

I'm a long time XJ owner, having built one with more than 8 inches of lift, a Clayton Offroad long arm kit, and set of Alcan springs. I'm used to dealing with driveline angles, slip yoke eliminators, custom drive shafts, lockers, etc.

Where I'm having trouble is finding good info on where the weak parts are with the 4Runner. I can't seem to find any taller lifts, even though I've seen rigs with 35s. Is that completely custom, or am I just too late to the party with a rig past its prime?

My sole intention is build a trail rig suitable for harder trails in and around South Carolina. I just moved here from Northern Virginia where I was used to mix of mud and rocks, and preferred the dry stuff stuff to the wet stuff. I'm guessing there'll be a bit more wet down here, but still would like a rig capable of taking on the rocks.

The other thing I had which I'm having trouble finding, is a local club. I used to wheel with Off-Camber Crawlers of Northern VA, but can't seem to find anything similar (a 501c3) here in Greenville.

 

ah, yeah toyota's are independent suspension vehicles, unlike Jeeps which are solid axel. It's completely different and lift does not equal bigger tire size etc. The reason you don't see anything over 3" is that pretty much maxes the Toyota suspension system. That's not to say there aren't things you can do, it's just not "routine" so-to-speak. 35's and even 37's are possible, but require trimming and/or tubbing.

This video really really helps, highly recommended. Also, there's a lot of good material available on Tacomaworld, 1st gen tacomas are very similar in concept to the 3rd gen 4runner, and this forum is pretty weak in comparison.

Good luck though, they're a ton of fun!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_68Hc8GtLko&ab_channel=Tinkerer'sAdventure

 

Great video! Thanks for the help. Looks like I need to figure out what's going on with my "3 inch lift".

 

Also as far as meet ups, I'd again check TW, much more active, there's a whole SE forum

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/csra-ga-sc-tacomas.689687/
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...-under-new-management-and-lives-in-sc.411211/

 

Even 3" is too much lift on these.

It's an IFS vehicle, not solid axle.

What you gain in build quality and stronger axles compared to a Jeep, you lack in actual wheel travel.

Comfort is definitely up there with the 4R as well.