1986 4runner Build

[944drsk]

I bought this 4runner this past August pretty much stock except for a set of 31". The previous owner had rebuilt the motor and put in a new clutch. I felt for the age, it was in very good shape and would be perfect for what I had in mind. After a couple of months of driving it and just having it around, I decided that it was the right fit for me. I spent alot of time down at Armstong Automotive talking to Scott about my project and getting different ideas and opinions. With Scott, George and Kris's help, I decided that a Trail Gear solid axle swap was in order, along with a 4"/5" lift ,5.29 gears,lockers,35" and dual transfer cases was going to get me where I wanted to be.(For now)Hope you enjoy our build...The first set of pics where the day that I brought it home.

[944drsk]

after removal of bumpers and running boards, already looks better!!

[chris_dishmon]

wow! i didn't realize the Trailgear kit is the same as Marlin's and about 400 bucks cheaper.

[944drsk]

Scott ordered mine thru Low Range right before the end of the year and saved about 200.00 plus got free shipping--every little bit helps!

[944drsk]

I dropped the 4runner off at Scott's shop (Armstrong Automotive) and he started by cutting the IFS out. For any of you that have done this or thinking of doing it, its alot of cutting and grinding just to get to the point of starting at square one...

[944drsk]

Work bench full of goodies from TG and 35x12.5x15 MT Baja Claws ready for install. This is a teaser pic of what we hope the end result might look like.

[BIGRAM]

That reminds me of my 1981 Toyota Trekker I USED to own. Straight axle from the factory. I believe it was the prototype for the 4Runner.

I used to go anywhere in Slade with it.

Rode like a goat, I miss that ol' truck.

[mossyoaktj]

sure is a purty little thing

[tjjeepjeep]

Looks great!

[KargoMaster]

That's about what it looked like when I stopped in...

Nice ride, and some nice stuff going into it...

[Flxratd]

in my defence he has about 4000 more pics to chose from and it is sitting on the axles at this time and as of 9.00 this morning the front axle seals showed up so i can complete the front axle. brett hasnt spared any expense with all the upgrades so it should be a great all purpose rig. bring on the pics

[KargoMaster]

No defense required, I stopped in a while ago...

Can't wait to see more pics... I always enjoy how "clean" you fab this stuff...

[944drsk]

Yes, I do have alot of pics. I have been a little delayed on posting. I'll try to catch it up asap.These pics are from the front axle build up with armor and truss as well as the front spring brackets and springs.

[944drsk]

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[944drsk]

These are pics after cutting the frame out to except the new shackles and mounting the springs and welding the shock hoops as well as the rear spring removal and start the rear install.