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Re: CYi5's 1999 4Runner
The 60" hi-lift needed a home, so I took a note from Xcmountain80 as well as an article on Yotatech. Using Yakima's Universal Snaparounds, I was able to make a secure mount on my crossbars. 2" long, 5/16" carriage bolts fit the best in the holders. Other random hardware such as nuts, fender washers, and lock washers rounded out the construction. :wrenchin:
[img width=800 height=532]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0248.jpg[/img]
[img width=800 height=532]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0251.jpg[/img]
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Roof Rack Setup
The time finally came to deck out the yakima crossbars with offroad goodies that don't belong inside. The heavy items are mounted on 48" crossbars.
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0123.jpg[/img]
Components: Shovel, 60" Hi-Lift, 39½" x 36" x 2¾" Roof Basket
Utilizing Yakima snaparounds, I mounted the 60" Hi-lift using 5/16" carriage bolts, the square seat fits much better in the snaparounds than the bolts supplied with them. 5/16" fender washers also fit perfectly in the hi-lift grooves preventing any shifting.
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0125.jpg[/img]
For the shovel, I used snaparounds again for the mounts, fabricated a metal sleeve for the blade to fit in up front, and ended up with a quickfist to hold the handle.
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0124.jpg[/img]
The roof basket took a little more consideration. I knew i wanted it low to avoid excess drag and tree branch contact. To fit where I needed it it also had to be less than 40"x36". After a little searching online I found a strong candidate. The Rooftop Cargo Rack from www.discountramps.com was perfect! 39½" x 36" x 2¾" and only 14 lbs! With a price of $100 shipped I couldn't pass it up.
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0117.jpg[/img]
After a little juggling of the crossbars and reversing the front factory bars I was able to get it on. I mounted the basket to the factory bars instead of the yakimas for a few reasons. 1) It would mount lower. 2) It would mount behind the yakima wind fairing. 3) The rack mounts fit the factory curves better. 4) It barely fits between the yakima bars mounted up, i'm talking centimeters!!
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0110.jpg[/img]
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0116.jpg[/img]
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0126.jpg[/img]
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0129.jpg[/img]
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0130-1.jpg[/img]
[img width=800 height=531]http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e194/CYi5/4runner/DSC_0131.jpg[/img]
Notes about the rack quality. It's capacity is 150lbs, and that is obviously evenly distributed. The crossbars are a little flimsy besides the metal rods that brace the brackets. I almost wish the entire floor was made out of those rods, however that would also increase the weight. I foolishly thought the sides would be laser cut solid pieces, however, they appear to be stamped sheet metal. But really, for $79 and the fact that it fits my needs and dimensions perfectly, this thing is a steal.
DiscountRamps also has stretch nets for baskets for around $15 shipped, I will end up buying one of those eventually to keep my light cargo secure.
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Re: CYi5's 1999 4Runner
Little update on wheels/tires. I decided to switch to a 235/85 tire just for kicks. I've run 255/85's in the past and liked them, so decided to give the 32" version a chance. I was originally going to go with BFG KM2's, but none involved free shipping online so I cruised a bit more.
I ended up with a set of 235/85 Hankook Dynapro MT's. Good reviews everywhere I looked...but these mofos are heavy (45-49lbs.).
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...r/DSC_0273.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...r/DSC_0282.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...r/DSC_0277.jpg
So far i'm happy with the purchase, they do have a hum to them, but not as loud as many other MT's.
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Re: CYi5's 1999 4Runner
Also taking a roadtrip to Colorado shortly, and decided to build an awning. Buying one would be awesome, but spending $250+ for something you'll use a few times a month, if that, doesn't really justify the investment. Soo, I built this system for $30 with most of the materials coming from your local Harbor Freight.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...r/DSC_0264.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...r/DSC_0271.jpg
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Re: CYi5's 1999 4Runner
Here are some recent photos from a 2 week, 3,700 mile solo trip from northern California, throughout Colorado, and then down to Southern California.:smiley_drive: Was the first really long trip i've taken with the 4Runner since I got it last August. Though a supercharger would be nice in the high elevations in Colorado...
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0509.jpg
Bonneville Salt Flats
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0540.jpg
Camping just northwest of the flats, testing out the new awning setup.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0543.jpg
Window Sox, brought back from a trip to Australia. They're made for an 01+ CR-V, but I was lucky enough to guesstimate the size correctly. They are great for ventilation and to keep bugs out at night. You can also leave them on all the time, as they're made to provide UV protection when you have babies on board.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0573.jpg
Echo Park, Dinosaur National Monument. Beautiful campground which is a treat to get to! Bring insect repellent!:yikes:
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0616.jpg
Hankooks performed awesomely. Not too loud at highway speeds and no noticeable slippage on the gravel. When they say they've incorporated rock ejectors, they mean it...these things huck rocks like crazy. There were some large silt beds to plow through on the way to Toroweap and they performed very well. I'll be adding 1" wheel spacers in the future for a little more stability, however. The 5.25" BS feels a little iffy taking highway speed turns.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0740.jpg
Toroweap, north rim of the Grand Canyon. It's pretty awesome to drive 80 miles offroad and have an isolated campground all to yourself with a view overlooking the Grand Canyon!:wings:
Rest of the pictures including Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Dinosaur National Monument, Estes Park, Grand Canyon, and Rye Patch Reservoir.
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Re: CYi5's 1999 4Runner
I spent yesterday building a security box for the center console. I wanted to make one for a couple reasons. First, to have lockable storage for when my vehicle is parked at the lake, etc. and is a nice place to leave a wallet/gps/cell phone if they can't be carried on me. Secondly, I wanted a place to legally store a firearm that was easily accessible if need be. When it's all said and done I don't think it is large enough to hold a sidearm, unless I get a snubnose revolver or the like.
I chose to do a combination cam-lock over standard key for ease of access to anyone I trust, leaving another key off the keyring, and the ability to open it without removing keys from the ignition.
Excuse the dark pictures, but you'll get the idea. Black metal box :).
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0797.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0798.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0799.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0800.jpg
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http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0808.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0809.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...5/IMG_0810.jpg
If I were to do it again i'd probably just get a keyed cam-lock: 1/3 the price, less clearance needed between box and console lid. The combination is just too cool though.:cool:
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Re: CYi5's 1999 4Runner
Got around to making drawers for my rear cargo storage. Turned out pretty precisely with the help of a table saw. I had to special order some extra long slides but at least they're rated for 100 lbs.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...r/IMG_0846.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...r/IMG_0845.jpg
There is enough room on the front left corner for a spare quart of oil and on the right 2 maglights in quickfists.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...r/IMG_0849.jpg
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Re: CYi5's 1999 4Runner
Thanks for the comments RMP&O. Here are the final shots of the wheel project and pictures of the 235/85's on 16x8's for those that are interested. It does look a little 'froggy style' or 'hawaiian style' stretched over the rim, but there is still a little sidewall bulge. The tire noise increased slightly (at the same 35 psi), so I may do the chalk test to get the contact patch correct again. The width matches the limited flares perfectly as expected; fingers crossed I won't ever need a new set of rims!! I need to stop spending money on stupid tweaks and use it for gas $$$.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture001.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture003.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture009.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture006.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture005.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture010.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture013.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture011.jpg
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Re: CYi5's 1999 4Runner
Spent my day off making a little addition to the ARB. Since removing the limited bumper and associated fog lights I've missed that close up light on the road. I also don't like having a useless switch on my steering column.
I welded up some bolt-on brackets that would hold two rectangular lights. These fit in the openings reserved for hi-lift jacking and the winch clutch.
I originally planned to go with Hella FF75 fogs, but at $100 I didn't see it as worth the investment.
The affordable solution:
55w Pilot Driving Lights (PL-2055C) - $19.99 @ AutoZone
http://www.etrailer.com/mm5/graphics...dimensions.jpg
http://www.etrailer.com/mm5/graphics.../drive_top.jpghttp://www.etrailer.com/mm5/graphics...drive_side.jpg
I used these on my last taco as reverse lights and found them to be a great value and perfect fit for the all-pro rear bumper. I tapped into the factory fog light wiring harness to utilize the OEM twist switch. Stock fogs are also 55w, so no need to worry about melting wires or fire hazard.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture005.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture009.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture012.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...Picture013.jpg
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Re: CYi5's 1999 4Runner
Added bump stops to aid in the harsh bottoming out in the rear.:safari-rig:
Parts list:
Daystar KU09014BK ~$35
2"x5"x3/16" Box ~Free (thanks to left over scrap from red87's bumper)
Misc. Hardware ~$3.00 (M8x1.25 = bolts that thread into stock bumpstop nut)
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...ner/bumps1.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e1...ner/bumps2.jpg