Getting my 4runner Trail Ready

[Soccernut]

Hey guys,
I am a beginner offroader, I just bought a 1988 4runner to serve me as a trail rig as I don't trust myself to take the FJ on the trail and bring it back in one piece.

Now I am working on getting the 4runner trail ready. My goal is to take it on some easy trails and just enjoy a nice and easy slow ride.

So far, I have "mended" the rear springs with a ProComp AAL kit and added some BFG Mud Terrains on. The rest of the car is in great working order.
I am trying to keep this as low budget as possible.

My main concern is to get some recovery gear. I have some recovery straps.
On my list is:
1. Hilift Jack
2. Shovels...etc.

I was wondering if you guys can help me with some suggestion on what I should start thinking about. Most of my trips will be locally (Waiparous and Mclean).

[CalgaryRider]

you can get both at Princess auto for pretty good prices. I picked up a D handle shovel and it has come in pretty handy!

I know that some of the members have picked up Hilift jacks for a pretty good price too, especially if you can get them on sale.

I know Nathan and the CT4WD crew recommend a 60 inch, cause it will give you the height you need to get yourself out of some interesting situations.

[freeze]

Perhaps on thing to invest in is a set of sliders to protect your sills.

You're on the right path for sure. Make sure your specs on recovery gear is more than sufficient for your Toyota.

[TOYREX]

Spend some cash on at least one 25-40 foot snap strap(2 is better, get a decent size clevice too). I've never needed a jack. Pick up a Decent shovel(spade). If you have the ability, fab a home made snorkel( brand names are really expensive) trust me, I've gone through 3 or 4 very good engines sucking in water. And remember this... if you go to maclean, stay the hell away from fisher east... it's a truck wrecker....other little things include some home made diff breathers, and pack the battery terminals in vasoline or such,. the next thing would be to try to seal the ignition with silicone or such, iif you can't do that make sure you have a splash cover on your coil and distributor.
also if you have the space and cash, bring an extra alternator and a few metric wrenchs, I've wrecked 3 on the trail( appearently common because of the location of it)
If you want to go with the home made snorkle let me know, I fabbed a really decent one inside the inner fender as a solution...

Good luck

[Soccernut]

Yeah I think I gonna hit up Princess Auto for some recovery gear.

I would be interested in that home made snorkel. I wouldn't mind getting some pointers on that

[freeze]

Also ensure you have solid points to your frame which your clevis will attach to for recovery.

Examples would be:
- Receiver hitch class IV (up to 12,000LBS) with receiver shackle.
- Front bumper solidly bolted or welded to frame with 3/4 shackle attachement.

DocMcCoy (Head Trainer) could probably give you the heads up about the courses which teaches the safety aspects and good equipment vs. not so good equipment etc.

[Doc McCoy]

DocMcCoy (Head Trainer) could probably give you the heads up about the courses which teaches the safety aspects and good equipment vs. not so good equipment etc.

Okay ... I don't think I like that title. People might get the wrong idea. :P

In all seriousness, if you have any specific questions feel free to PM me or hit me up with your questions at a coffee night.

[Tarzan]

The most important thing to bring and have for any outdoor activity is a brain and then use it. If the water looks to deep and will suck in water your brain should say get out and find out how deep or alternate way if possible. If you are snowmobiling and the warnings are extreme then your brain should be saying hmm high marking might not be a good idea today. Sorry for the rant but in outdoor survival this is the first and most important rule "have a brain and know how to use it" you can prep for alot but most times common sense will keep you from ever needing the preperations to begin with.

[freeze]

+ 1!

[TOYREX]

+2 I forgot to add use your brain... stay away from the booze too



The most important thing to bring and have for any outdoor activity is a brain and then use it. If the water looks to deep and will suck in water your brain should say get out and find out how deep or alternate way if possible. If you are snowmobiling and the warnings are extreme then your brain should be saying hmm high marking might not be a good idea today. Sorry for the rant but in outdoor survival this is the first and most important rule "have a brain and know how to use it" you can prep for alot but most times common sense will keep you from ever needing the preperations to begin with.

[Soccernut]

The most important thing to bring and have for any outdoor activity is a brain and then use it. If the water looks to deep and will suck in water your brain should say get out and find out how deep or alternate way if possible. If you are snowmobiling and the warnings are extreme then your brain should be saying hmm high marking might not be a good idea today. Sorry for the rant but in outdoor survival this is the first and most important rule "have a brain and know how to use it" you can prep for alot but most times common sense will keep you from ever needing the preperations to begin with.

Agree, which is exactly the reason I am trying to learn from the more experienced people. I don't want to do anything stupid out there. Just enjoy the ride and come home safely.