ExploringNH's 2002 4Runner build-up thread

[ExploringNH]

Nice RIG.

Any pics of the interior sleeping/storage arrangement.

I dont have any pics of it anymore. I used to, but they were lost in a hosting move. Im going to have more pics up soon, and Ill try to remember to take some of the inside.

Its a pretty simple setup. 2x12s lengthwise, with 3 1/2" MDF boards on top, all carpeted. Each can be pulled up individually to access the compartment underneath. The center compartment has a clear rubbermade tub that slides out. To turn it into a sleeping platform, I fold down the rear seats and put in a little extension, again with storage underneath. A futon mattress goes on top and Im all set.

 

[ExploringNH]

No new pictures yet. Things moved a bit slower than anticipated. I didnt plan for the holidays taking up time.

At any rate, the next round of mods is here:

Viair 450C on-board air system
4.88 Front diff with ARB air locker
4.88 Rear diff with E-locker (not shown)

Im excited. Combine this with the 35's and Im ready for snow!

It should all be in by this coming Monday, then a new series of photos will be taken.

 

[ttora4runner]

Nice, build.

 

[SOAZ]

Nice truck, all around. Looks like a nice mix of functionality and clean lines and looks. good job!

:sombrero:

 

[ChrisInVT]

A locker in an IFS front diff? You're brave

If you're ever up in northern NH LMK so I can tag along on a trail ride

 

[ExploringNH]

A locker in an IFS front diff? You're brave

If you're ever up in northern NH LMK so I can tag along on a trail ride

I have no plans to go SAS, so IFS it is. The front locker will mostly be used for snow, and not hard rock crawling. Ive blown apart the front before, so it wont be anything new if it does happen. :sombrero:

Im in northern NH often. I need to find some good trails way up north though. I have a list of roads, but most are unscouted once you get too far up.

 

[DenCo40]

Thats a really nice rig!:ylsmoke:

 

[allochris]

What did you do to your front grill? I love it!!! :Wow1:

 

[ExploringNH]

What did you do to your front grill? I love it!!! :Wow1:

Are you taking about the grill in between the headlights with the Toyota logo in it? If so, that's completely stock.

Thats a really nice rig!:ylsmoke:

Nice truck, all around. Looks like a nice mix of functionality and clean lines and looks. good job!

:sombrero:

Nice, build.

Thanks everyone. I hope to make more updates soon, with a lot more pics.

 

[ChrisInVT]

I have no plans to go SAS, so IFS it is. The front locker will mostly be used for snow, and not hard rock crawling. Ive blown apart the front before, so it wont be anything new if it does happen. :sombrero:

Im in northern NH often. I need to find some good trails way up north though. I have a list of roads, but most are unscouted once you get too far up.

As much as everybody trash talks IFS, I haven't really had problems. I actually like how I have more clearance in the front, I constantly find myself dragging my rear axle over things when the IFS clears. Especially in the snow!

I haven't done much wheelin' in NH, a couple trails here and there - I usually stick to exploring trails in VT. For a while I was checking out all the Class IV and "untraveled" roads on my town maps

 

[ExploringNH]

More photos of the rear bumper and its build up for those who asked:

http://forums.exploringnh.com/showpost.php?p=67483&postcount=2

The rear gate and tire carrier was built to not fail. On the far left, you can see the hinge. The center of the gate slides over a locking nub and onto the top of the trailer hitch. With the gate unlatched, it cant open unless lifted over this piece. On the far right, the gate latches to another small platform that holds weight and stops vibration. To latch it, a pin drops down through the plate it sits on, and is secured with a clip. This creates a situation where any one point can fail, and the gate will still be held on securely by two more points. I doubt that any one of these points will ever fail though.

The gate can fit up to a 35" tire without contacting the jerry can or blocking the tail light. A 37 can fit, but would partially block the taillight when viewed at any direction other than directly behind it.

 

[ChrisInVT]

That's awesome. I'm thinking of converting my rear bumper to do something like this.