3rd Gen 4Runner, chop top/exo

[Mossyrocks]

Heres day 1, copied from the TTORA NB. There will be a hoop in front of the tire that follows the c-pillar and will go through the roof to the exo. inner support for the exo.

heres what I got done today:
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exochoptop003b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exochoptop005b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exochoptop009b.jpg

the only thing I dont like is the loss of the rear view, but it was the only way to do it.

[Mossyrocks]

Cut the old sliders off and made new ones out of 1-1/2" square and round tubing with a kickout. The old ones werent long enough for the exo. and got the wheel hoops done as well
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exochoptop040b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exochoptop039b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exochoptop038b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exochoptop024b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exochoptop029b.jpg

[copeland]

thats a pretty trick runna...what kit did you use for the solid axle ?

[techman]

looks good

[generalee7]

thats a pretty trick runna...what kit did you use for the solid axle ?

Kit??? :laughing: :laughing:

[copeland]

Kit??? :laughing: :laughing:


que?

I am wondering if it's maybe trail gear or Marlins kit modified to fit or if he went totally on his own...

[Twisty4runner]

he made his own.

[ATLRoach]

Okay I see a 4Runner with some tube...Now where are the cutting pics? Come on Brad you have been talking this up for how long now?

[MT4Runner]

D44 - Waggy width or full-width?

[ErikB]

Its good to see a straight axle 3rd gen or Taco that's not lifted sky-high. Nice rig.

I still want to move my running gear over to a 3rd gen someday...

[b2dude]

it's nice to open a thread and see that the person is doing what the title says....not asking "so has it been done? post up your pics":shaking:

looking good:D

[ATLRoach]

D44 - Waggy width or full-width?

I think he's running a 64" WMS..

[underwood]

Isn't that at Aetna? I love how all that place is is washed out ruts and hill climbs. Who's white 4runner in the background?

[Mossyrocks]

There is no kit under this, a few parts from Sky Man., But I made the hanger/bumper. The axle is a 67" hp44. The rear is stock with spacers soon to be a D60.

And Kyle, sorry for the all talk and no chop, I was getting everything straightened out, but the top will be bolted back on sunday........ Hopefully. Then I can finish the exo/tailgate/soft top.

The white runner in the background is Al from alabama. Cant remember the site he is on.

[AddictedOffroad]

Nice. I think a 3rd gen may very well be my next project.

[87SAMMY]

Aetna MTN rules!

[Mossyrocks]

Picked up the metal and bolts this morning :smokin:

I cant wait to start cuttin' on this bitch

[Twisty4runner]

I have a feeling we will be busy all day sunday cutting that bitch apart.

[Mossyrocks]

I believe we share that feeling... Atleast its not hard work, just tedious and thoughtful work.

Im gonna have it stripped out and ready by sunday though

[yodamankp]

Are you building it so the top is removeable or are you going to make a soft top for it? Mine started as a top chop but when I got done, there wasn't much 4runner left.:grinpimp: The truck looks badass man, keep up the good work.:smokin:

[Twisty4runner]

hopefully we will have it bolted back on by the time we leave tomorrow night, but I would like to bend some tubes for mine if we get tired of working on the 4runner.

[Mossyrocks]

both.... The original top will be bolted back on, and then I have to make a folding frame so the guy can get started on the soft top. The hatch will stay connected to the hard top and Im gonna build a swing out gate to go with the soft top.

Im also gonna build tube doors to go with the exo

[Mossyrocks]

It is gutted and ready to be cut, the chop begins in the morning. Ive got it all taped off and marked as well.

[Twisty4runner]

today was a productive day. The top was cut off and the body as all capped. everything looks as if it will line up smoothly so the top will now be removable. Hopefully Brad will get the pics loaded shortly.

[Mossyrocks]

Pre-cut
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop005c.jpg
Taped off and drilled through to cut level
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop007c.jpg
Also turned the rear hatch harness around to unclip at the tops mounting point.

First cut, no going back
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop009c.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop010c.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop011c.jpg
And finally the bitch is off..... hehe
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop001bc.jpg
getting the caps fabbed up and welded in place
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop005bc.jpg
caps are finished for now.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop011bc.jpg
and setting the top back on with the bottom flange welded on

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop015c.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/topchop016c.jpg

still left is finishing the caps and painting them, filling the old roof rack holes and painting, getting the flange done on the top, cleaning it up and painting it... Then I guess drill the holes, weld the nuts on and bolt it on. The interior is pretty much already cut to fit.

Then I can finish the exo

[nightcrawler]

I dig the removable top idea on the 3rd gen runners. Will check this thread daily on your progress.

[Mossyrocks]

thanks man, it should have been this way from the factory

[ATLRoach]

Hell yeah Brad that is awesome.

[Kyle_T]

are you going to mae a soft top as well?

[Twisty4runner]

he is planning on having one made this spring.

[Mossyrocks]

heres some from today
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday3001b.jpg
the top is fully welded now, just needs paint and I have to figure out the interior
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday3006b.jpg
heres my little helper buddy
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday3003b.jpg
the body end of it is all done except for paint
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday3009b.jpg
seat belts were a bitch
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday3011b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday3016b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday3015b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday3013b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday3012b.jpg

all in all its goin pretty good. Only problem is the top sits a little higher than the roof so Ill probably weld another flange at an upwards angle to fix it and double as the seal for the soft top to overlap.

[tj40ounce]

nice work!

[]4RunnerKid[]

damn... that looks awesome. i've been tossing around the idea of doing the same on my 2nd gen, but haven't decided to close it off if i do go through with it. can't wait to see how you get it all sealed up.:smokin:

[91Toyota4x4]

That removable top is awesome.

[Mossyrocks]

all thats left now is door edge around the caps to cover the sharp edge, soft top frame, and a swing out tailgate. Then I can have the top made. I still have to paint the hard top, if it looks like shit mounted Im trashing it.

here she is as of tonight though;
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday4001b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday4002b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday4003b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday4004b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday4005b.jpg

I love it

[e]

super fawkin' cool....nice work man.

[]4RunnerKid[]

looks fawking incredible. really making me want to chop up mine... top notch work.

[trailcreep]

Fawkin nice
Gonna have to keep an eye on this build.Keep up the sweet work.

[fprbrooks]

First let me say that I love your work! The runner looks sick!!!:smokin:

But, what is with the spare tire up so high and right in your rear view? From the looks of your pics from the rear, it looks like you could lay the spare flat on the floor for a better center of gravity. Then build a storage bin or tray to haul your gear and stuff you dont always have with you over the top of the tire.

Just my 2 cents.

Again love the runner :D

[mkmarz]

Slick work man! What are the plans for the swing out?

[Mossyrocks]

I understand exactly what your saying, but me and the misses like camping back there. No point in getting out a tent when you can just shack up in the runner and not have to mess with the spare....

I did bolt the top back on today and got the hatch to shut but I think after I get the soft top made with the swing out Im gonna ditch the top.

[Mossyrocks]

Im gonna build a sealed gate out of small square and plate to match the bumpers. Except its gonna be thin and lightweight unlike the bumpers. Im also gonna try and put the factory license plate bracketry in the middle of it.

[polevaulter95]

ive been lurking for a while and once i saw this thread i had to sign up. that thing is bitching man

[fourlofirst]

My wife has a '96 that I've been itching to cut like that. I'd have to take it somewhere tho...Curious to see the softtop.

[Richard]

way to go , nice work:grinpimp:

[BradD]

Nice looking 4runner. You did a good job of cutting it as well. I have been thinking about starting the chop on mine this weekend. I am still not sure if i have the balls to do it or not. We end up 4wheeling when it is -20 degrees from time to time. Let me know how it seals back up. Did you happen to get a weight on the back to see how much you lost?

[zidaro]

Very nice looking, good job. And fresh. Cant wait to see more of this and hopefully more like it.

[customcruiser]

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday4003b.jpg

looks great...... I think your wife?? thinks you lost your mind.... until everybody looks at you on the road and then it will be her truck....

I was gonna do my 2nd gen like that but......... i got carried away with the Bandsaw

[TheBandit]

Looks great! I have always liked chopped up 2nd gens. This is the first I've seen like yours. The removeable hardtop is a nice touch!

I dunno how you can stand having that spare tire taking up your rear visibility.

4RunnerKid[;6534510']damn... that looks awesome. i've been tossing around the idea of doing the same on my 2nd gen

DO IT! DO IT! :flipoff2: :D

[CUBuff 4Runner]

Looks great. I have been considering chopping mine like you did for the past year. Now that I have seen what it looks like it is more tempting.

[Mossyrocks]

tops on, didnt hardly leak sitting but it did in a downpour on the interstate.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday5001b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday5004b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/choptopday5008b.jpg


By the way, My wife was at home already....... That'd be my mom letting me borrow her camera (I've been having digital difficulties)


I hate losing the rear vis. but Im used to it now. I have backed into a tree in the rain. shit happens I guess, tube doors will help alot and I gained alot of visibility with the top off.

[Mossyrocks]

well the top cant go back on. The way Im building the tailgate makes the hatch un-useable. Which is probably a good thing considering I dropped the damn top off the forklift sat. morning.

[customcruiser]

get a backup camera.... thats what I am gonna do. then add a couple extra for those difficult spots on the PS that I cant see

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/2/web/566000-566999/566690_108_full.jpg

[copeland]

holy crap that cool....

[Yota Tony]

That's fucking cool.

[jimmyhats]

i almost wanna nother so i can do this again didn't think too much on my last one and killed it before it was finished thats some nice work...

[blakeape]

Awesome looking rig. What size metal did you use to cap the top and the rails? I don't have a lot of experience welding thinner metals, but I imagine getting those 2 surfaces to mate well was pretty tricky. Any other tips would be very appreciated by those of us tossing around a similar Idea. A couple more inside pics would be great too once you finish it. Very cool.

[Mossyrocks]

I used 16 gauge and just welded 1" sections to keep the heat down. To keep from blowing a hole I just tacked real fast, about every half second.

On the inside before the cut, there will be a bend just before the window, drill holes from the inside out on that bend level to the outside and trace the holes on the outside.

[Mossyrocks]

made some progress so far this week.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exoweek1003b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exoweek1007b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exoweek1008b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exoweek1011b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exoweek1014b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exoweek1018b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exoweek1022b.jpg

and heres the 4runners little sister that its trying to be like.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exoweek1005b.jpg

Im still trying to figure out how to do the X through the middle behind the front seats.

[Mossyrocks]

this is harder than I thought it'd be to keep it somewhat clean and not be prone to caving in. Im trying my damndest (is that a word?) to keep it from looking like a jungle gym.

[trainwreck]

Like your choices so far on the exo lines, also with the top. Considered doing the same to a 2nd gen a while back, and i may still do it to a passport.

:beer:

Since you're gonna fab a stand-alone tailgate, what's the reason for the upward slope with the "bed" angle? Are there bracing, layers, etc. in the sheetmetal, or was it more of a personal preference?

[burton]

I love it. Sweet buildup

[Mossyrocks]

thats where the bend was underneath the window on the inside, make it a little stronger. And it continues the slope of the bottom of the front windows. Its also exactly 3/4" below the back window evenly across.

[customcruiser]

i like the exo....
are you gonna put some tubing for the doors??
if so are you should make them open somehow.... like a rear tire carrier

[Mossyrocks]

Im making front tube doors and Im gonna figure out something for the back doors.

[trainwreck]

thats where the bend was underneath the window on the inside, make it a little stronger. And it continues the slope of the bottom of the front windows. Its also exactly 3/4" below the back window evenly across.

True true, I forgot the back quarterglass doesn't really follow the same lines as the other windows OR the quarter bodyline, so your decision to go a little lower makes even more sense.

I still love it man, you did an excellent job. I didnt see in the thread what you're using for weatherstripping on your flange?

[Mossyrocks]

I cant use the hard top anymore, im just gonna sport the soft top year round i guess.

[Yota Tony]

What happened? Why no more hard top?

[BruceTS]

Nice work, I've been tossing around a similar idea, but incorporating the rear hatch section back in behind the seats. My plans were to just cut the entire back section off, then getting a bed from a PU, cuttin it down and mating it to the body. I may still do this in the future, but I recently got a 4.0L v-6 with 6-speed out of a 05 Taco 4x4, so now I have all my running gear for a buggy....

[Twisty4runner]

What happened? Why no more hard top?

forklift accident. the hatch wouldnt go back on either, with the way he is planning on mounting a tailgate.

[Mossyrocks]

pulled it out earlier and hated the top so I cut where all the tubes connect, smashed it down about 2 inches, and rewelded it. But here it is fixed.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinal020b.jpg
The center support came out nice, it goes from one side roof bar through to the opposite slider. And I like the BTF yota emblem there.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinal036b.jpg
seats still fold and the front seats are back where I've always had them.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinal012b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinal008b.jpg
and finished up the tail light gaurds
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinal032b.jpg

So all thats left for now is paint.....

and then tube doors, a tailgate, soft top frame, and soft top....

twistyrunner is correct about the top..... its not that bad, but without using the hatch I dont see the point.

[yotalanche]

very nice and nice tube work. looks awesome dude.
cheers

[4RnrRick]

Nice work on that!

Did you add rubber seal strips to the hardtop to try to stop the leaks? or is it just metal on metal?

[ATLRoach]

Nice work on that!

Did you add rubber seal strips to the hardtop to try to stop the leaks? or is it just metal on metal?

He was using weather stripping but was leaking past it in the corners.

[Yota Tony]

Looking slick man.

[Mossyrocks]

sorry no updates lately... Im having digital difficulties and I dont have the internet at my house right now. So Im at my moms office checkin things....


Anyway, its painted and scratched. Things are coming alng on the tailgate and Ill try and get some more pics and info up whenever I can.

[RockRogue]

totally sick. A good looking runner WITH the veratility of a removable top.

[Mossyrocks]

got the camera back... finally

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinished001b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinished003b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinished006b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinished009b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/exofinished2002b.jpg

Ill try and get some on the tailgate progress this week.

[getitdone]

Oh my god.
Hottest 3rd Gen I have ever seen!

[Mossyrocks]

sorry its been a while on updates. Been real busy on the gate though and its coming along. Using the 4runner center section with the "plastic and lights/plate holder thing" and I fabbed in the taco tailgate handle so I can use those latches. I've got a little bit of it on there and will get pics tomorrow. And who knows, might get the tubework done and ready for plate :)

[Mossyrocks]

workin on the tailgate. Taco handle and latches.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tailgate002b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tailgate003b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tailgate005b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tailgate009b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tailgate014b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tailgate015b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tailgate018b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tailgate019b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tailgate020b.jpg

and yes it open and shuts.

[Elvota]

Nice ideas on this build. Tailgate looks stout.... nice extra touch.

[Kali_Jude]

Sick 3rd gen!

[Mossyrocks]

here it is painted for the weekend trip but its not finished and Im not worried about the dimples because when its got the bedliner on it they wont be noticable.

my 1" die came in so ill be playin with that on my soft top frame.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tgate011b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tgate014b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tgate010b.jpg

[AddictedOffroad]

Nice damn work!

[Darrin530]

absoloutely beautiful. I've been waiting for someone to chop up a 3rd gen like myne. awesome.

[MiniSimp]

Nice attention to detail!
I love how tight the exo is.

[chim-]

Tail gate turned out sweet.. looks great!

[pitchitpitchit]

Nice work! Can you take a pic of the tailgate open? Maybe I missed it but do you have cables that hold it up while open like the Taco tailgates?

[Mossyrocks]

I dont yet but Im gonna use cables. And I still have to cut out a sheet to cover the inside. Might hinge one side and extrude it out from the rest to use for storage. but so far its coming along great, just not sure what else I wana do.

and Ill get some pics of it down whenever I get a chance.

[BCzuk]

Nice work:smokin:

[Twisty4runner]

all this work in the buildup and you are still running those damn streetlocks:shaking: I need to get my truck back up there and finish the cage.

[Mossyrocks]

what can I say, they've been good to me. Ive never blown a bead so whats the point?

[BBWCrawler]

Nicely done 3rd Gen...i'm liking the tail gate.

[Redeyejedi]

wow, mossyrocks.....really impressive work. cage is beautiful, swap top done really nicely, and tail-gate......waaaaaay sick!! this rig looks terrific!

[bigarms23]

That is probably the sickest 3gen 4runner ive seen

[Arya Ebrahimi]

Anything new on this? Sick rig!

[aaronmb]

very nice

[85blue4runner]

very cool, trickest 3rd ive seen, fab work and creativity are :beer:

[98taco4x]

He is cutting on it again.:shaking:

[white_n_slow]

amazing.

[Mossyrocks]

I guess you could say this is phase II. Here is what I have planned for the next couple of months;

Hudlow axle D60 rear (65")- Semi-float 35 spline chromo's, yukon 4.88s, ARB air locker, chevy disc brakes.

Fox 2.0 RR shocks all around. either 14s front and 16s rear or 16s all around.

PSC power steering kit.

Hydro assist and tapped box I got from duby.

Fuel cell and flat belly skid plate.

Tube doors and remove carpet.

Cut off the exo and re-do some things, mainly the roof.

Finally, Hood pins to move the cowl bar down to the hood.


I started on it today, managed to find out the threads are screwed up in the pulley shaft. Since it wouldnt take the bolt I figured I'd tap on the pulley. well it broke the cap off the back of the pump (P.O.S) so that put an end to the day. Also the carpet is completely out but nothing has been done to finish in the floor.

Ill get some pics up when there are some to be taken.

[Mossyrocks]

The new box is in, and the frame sleeves are fixed :D.

Fabbed up the steering reservoir bracket. Its amazing the goodies that can fit under the hood with the ABS crap gone.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner001b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner002b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner003b.jpg

Removed the spare tire holder, I love the view.... And ripped out the wet, stinky carpet. getting ready for herculiner.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner006b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner007b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner008b.jpg

and fixed the pass. door enough to get the glass to go up and down. still gotta get a new mirror though. But here it is ready for the front tube doors to be made.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner005b.jpg

[Mossyrocks]

here is the tie rod-ram bracket.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner3001b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner3002b.jpg

And here is the skid/ hydro mount. The ram wouldnt fit behind the TR, or between the TR and axle tube. With the TR in the factory location it wouldnt fit either so here it is.

Still gotta plate the skid but I dont have the material right now.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner3009b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner3011b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner3015b.jpg

[Mossyrocks]

heres a couple pics I got today.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner5006b.jpg

everything all crammed in there. would have been nice without the leaf springs in the way.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner5007b.jpg

[fj40forlife]

like the hole steering set up..... and mostly the bracket

[Mossyrocks]

I could find no other way to fit that ram in there.


Oh and the 37" Iroks came in today.

[Arya Ebrahimi]

I like the steering setup, but would the ram not have fit behind the TR with the end mounted to the u-bolt plate or something? Where was the interference? with the diff?

Lookin good!

[customcruiser]

man.... I liked your truck before.

I know how it is to get to the way you want, then have to cut it up again.

cant wait to see more progress

[knoxtaco]

I think Brad just loves to cut his shit up:D I just wish I had his time, tools and build budget, Im fuckin jealous as hell.

[Mossyrocks]

I like the steering setup, but would the ram not have fit behind the TR with the end mounted to the u-bolt plate or something? Where was the interference? with the diff?

Lookin good!

I tried the T/R in the factory location first. It wouldnt fit without going above the T/R and then the bracket would have been harder with less clearence from the T/R. And it wouldnt even come close to fitting behind it. Diff and leafs were in the way. It would fit under the T/R on the high steer arms because there isnt enough room between it and the axle tube. Also the Diff. Wouldn't fit behind the T/R up high because of the diff, leafs, and ARB + breather lines. So the bastard had to go where it is.

[Mossyrocks]

Got the Iroks put on. 37 x 14.00 Bias ply

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner6001b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner6002b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner6003b.jpg

[toyroc]

looks sweet... very clean...:smokin:

[dickwart]

Bitchin Rig and very clean, I like it man!!

[]4RunnerKid[]

damn that thing looks good... :smokin:

[Mossyrocks]

here they are as of now. late night throw together for the weekend. I still have to plate the bottom, cap the tubes, mount some cheapo mirrors and paint it.


http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner7010b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner7012b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner7011b.jpg

[thewizard182]

Nice doors, i would definitely trust those more than most tube doors since they are supported by the body and not just the latch.

[LIKES2CRAWL]

Wow, how did I miss this build?:eek: Rig looks bad azzzz!:grinpimp:

[andrew]

nice work . Definitely above the norm.

[-beaker]

Wow....

[Mossyrocks]

half-way done and Im already beating the shit out of them.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tellicosept207042b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tellicosept207048b.jpg

they took a hell of a beating today. good thing the real doors were safe in the shop. a little beat up, but safe.

[91advrunner]

Get your own box!(cheez its). your rig looks awesome. Im so jelous, i want to do that to my second gen but its my daily driver so I have to keep it somewhat mild(no huge exo chop top) although I will probably do it anyway.

[Mossyrocks]

that spot really pissed me off. as far as my tires stick out, it still needs to be bobbed, dovetailed, or have the axle pushed back. I kept backing into my taillight and I had no room to bump it.

[RatfinkFJ]

wow that is super impressive

[Appntr]

that spot really pissed me off. as far as my tires stick out, it still needs to be bobbed, dovetailed, or have the axle pushed back. I kept backing into my taillight and I had no room to bump it.

That looks like Upper 2 @ Tellico. If so, I can completely understand your frustration. That rock slides you into that bank on your passenger side and then you have almost no room to back up and bump it.

BTW...The 4Runner is looking really good. How are you liking the new Iroks?

[Mossyrocks]

yup thats exactly what happened. so far, I love these things. ride smoother on the street than my 35" trxus ever did and they definately stick harder on the rocks.

[Mossyrocks]

doors are done until I figure out what latches I want to use. Im just using 1/2" grade 8 bolts right now. And I may add some sheet metal to them where the hinges are. But for now the primer is drying and they getting paint tomorrow.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tellicosept2072c004b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tellicosept2072c006b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tellicosept2072c010b.jpg

[tj40ounce]

the doors are sick... nice work :grinpimp:

[snook]

doors are baddddd man nice work:D

[Mossyrocks]

done for now

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner9001_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner9002_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner9003_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner9004_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner9005_700x700.jpg

[jarboarder1]

Damn I love your 4runner. I hope to do something similar to mine someday, even though it will be hard to do that clean of work.
keep up the good work

[MT4Runner]

Nice, clean doors! I love how the sheet metal and tube follow the body line. :smokin:

[Okiyota]

Just a thought on your hydro-steering rod clamp...

Mark around both sides of the clamp, remove the clamp, and lay a couple spots down, then reinstall your clamp. It's pretty rare, and doesn't exclude you from actually following through and checking the 6 bolts every so often, but this trick'll definitely prevent any possibility that should something get loose, or a bolt posibly shear, allowing your clamp, and thus the rod to completely force beyond set, loosing steering, or worse, buckling the linkrod.

Trust me here, i've seen this happen, and it wasn't a fun and easy fix out.



Great idea! Easy to do and could save a lot of headache!

[Mossyrocks]

Great idea! Easy to do and could save a lot of headache!


yea, its on the long list of things to do, but its on the top right now. I just wanted to make sure everything was working correctly before I did.

[Mossyrocks]

Nice, clean doors! I love how the sheet metal and tube follow the body line. :smokin:

That was the goal, I still need to repaint the body itself so that the black is up to the top of the body line, as you can see. Kinda throws it off right now. And Im still debating on painting the doors from the horiz. tube up to match the body.

[Okiyota]

... Im still debating on painting the doors from the horiz. tube up to match the body.

I say do it, i think it will give it a "complete" look, even if its just going to get scratched and beat on, it'll still look nice on the way to the first trail!! :D

A couple questions for you: What height springs were you using when you were running 35's? I think you are still using the same ones but i cant remember if you said you swapped. Also how much compression travel do you have, from what i have found it is hard to get any uptravel due to the steering hitting the frame, unless you run a lot of lift, which it doesnt look like you are. Most 3rd gens that i have seen are so damn tall it isnt funny, i really like the stance of yours.

I am gathering parts right now to SAS my 3rd gen and i want it to sit just a hair lower than yours was in the pics with the 35's, mine will see mostly street time with the occasional camping/wheeling/snowbashing trips, so i'm not looking to go as hardcore as yours.

Thanks, and again, you have a BAMF of a 4runner!

[Mossyrocks]

Im currently running 12" shocks up front that need to be changed to 14s if they stay mounted where they are now. Not real sure of up-down travel right now, but I would guess 5-6" up. I need to reset the bumps for the tires and new drag link which will leave room for the 14s. The front springs are 6 leaf waggys with a second taco leaf added. the rears are 63" chevys which suck by the way. And no I didnt change anything for the 37s.

[Okiyota]

Right on man, thanks.

[Mossyrocks]

The reason for a change with the DL is that my old one was 1.25" dom with 5' bends at each end to clear the frame. And the driver side is also notched so no issues there, but the 1.5" D-L is hitting the passenger side of the frame just slightly. So Im gonna lose about an inch of up and just go with the 14s. Ill still be low with some uptravel though.

When you get started, ask away if you need anything. I'd be glad to help.

[Okiyota]

Sounds good man, thanks for the offer.

[Mossyrocks]

Ok, the more I think about this, the more I want to tear into the rear. Im thinking about tubing out the rear and keeping the sides behind the back doors. Dovetailed a little bit (maybe 5 inches per side). pull the floor behind the seats and incorporate the shock/coilover mounts into the tube work. Finish in the floor around it. Anybody got an opinion on this?

It has such a fat ass:

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner6003b.jpg

[generalee7]

DO IT!! :D I've been thinking the same for my truck actually :)

[mtnkid85]

I would say leave it, everything looks bitchin back there as is, tailgate,bumper,tube work, sheetmetal. But I love watching your build so... ya go ahead cut it up:flipoff2:

[Okiyota]

For sure man, do it!!!

Then sell me the rear bumper!

[ErikB]

:eek: SICK RIG!!! :smokin:

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner6002b.jpg

[Mossyrocks]

got started on the beadlocks tonight. gotta tell ya, my concentration is shot all the hell right now.

heres the junk, Pro comp wheels, and K.O.R.E custom beadlocks.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner10019_700x700.jpg

one welded up
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner10020_700x700.jpg

ground down, nice and smooth
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner10013_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner10008_700x700.jpg

ready for paint.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner10011_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner10004_700x700.jpg

2 of them are ready for paint, one still needs to be ground down, and I havent started on the 4th. the wheels themselves are getting gloss black and the lock rings are getting matched to the 4runner body.

and the "M" is for mossyrocks, so no copying....

[DBrown2]

Powdercoat.... Them

[TBItoy]

half-way done and Im already beating the shit out of them.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tellicosept207042b.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/tellicosept207048b.jpg

they took a hell of a beating today. good thing the real doors were safe in the shop. a little beat up, but safe.

shit the only way i've been able to climb it is to hang far left (straight-fawkin- up!) and "slide" across the face to the right so you dont hit the next ledge before your ass end gets in the hole!:mr-t:

That's a sweet rig too. Saw it at Tellico a few weekends back.:smokin:

[Mossyrocks]

Powdercoat.... Them

more money and harder to touch up. :D

[Mossyrocks]

the wheels are completely done. The rings are drying and will need to be sanded and re-cleared a couple times. All in all Im really happy with them.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner11001_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner11012_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner11003_700x700.jpg

[jarboarder1]

Ok, the more I think about this, the more I want to tear into the rear. Im thinking about tubing out the rear and keeping the sides behind the back doors. Dovetailed a little bit (maybe 5 inches per side). pull the floor behind the seats and incorporate the shock/coilover mounts into the tube work. Finish in the floor around it. Anybody got an opinion on this?

It has such a fat ass:

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner6003b.jpg

I vote for dovetailing it. I think that it would look bad ass.
Im loving the bead locks also

keep up the good work

[Mossyrocks]

all painted and ready to go. probably have them mounted by 2 or 3 tomorrow morning.

had a few beers so I figured Id dismount a tire by hand at midnight and see what length bolts Im gonna need.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner12009_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner12008_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner12001_700x700.jpg

[Okiyota]

They look awesome man!

On a side note: Was your front 44 originally a spring under axle? The one i picked up for mine is (its out of an 85 Grand Wagoneer) and i was wondering what the best approach was to get the spring on top? From what i have read the spring perch actually needs to be integrated into the diff itself and it cant be welded because its cast?? I have heard of people juts grinding the spot flat enough to get a spring on but i really dont want to hack this together. Or do i just need to start looking for a different housing?

[MT4Runner]

You can weld to it; just preheat the cast and use a nickel rod.

[Mossyrocks]

They look awesome man!

On a side note: Was your front 44 originally a spring under axle? The one i picked up for mine is (its out of an 85 Grand Wagoneer) and i was wondering what the best approach was to get the spring on top? From what i have read the spring perch actually needs to be integrated into the diff itself and it cant be welded because its cast?? I have heard of people juts grinding the spot flat enough to get a spring on but i really dont want to hack this together. Or do i just need to start looking for a different housing?

mine is a HP44 out of a 78 f-250. The waggy axle I was gonna use already had perches on the top and neither were on the cast. It is on the full width though. If I remember right, I think the one you have is what you dont want. The perches for one and I think it may be vacuum disconnect. I think your supposed to use the 86^ axles.

[TDbronco]

Looks good

[Okiyota]

Thanks Mossy, i guess i'll do some more reading before i get too carried away with this axle. It was real cheap so i just grabbed it one day thinking i read somewhere it was the one to use.

[Mossyrocks]

well I got them all done by 2:00 am like I said I would. Unfortunately one has a small leak so Ive got it torn apart already. I guess 1 pinhole out of 4 wheels isnt bad. I soaped it and locatated where its coming out, but with the tire off I cant find where the hole is.

anyways bling bling.
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner13003_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner13005_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner13018_700x700.jpg

[Mossyrocks]

no leaks, I love em. Here they are mounted.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner14004_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner14003_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner14006_700x700.jpg

[Clifcattankass]

looks good, definately need tube doors for the rear though

[mobil1syn]

good lookin rig. my only suggestion is to tuck those 4000s back a few more inches cause its going to suck when you break em.

[Mossyrocks]

good lookin rig. my only suggestion is to tuck those 4000s back a few more inches cause its going to suck when you break em.

shit I cant afford the 4000s, those are just black magics. :D besides, these are the broken ones. Joking aside, I left em there to protect the stinger.

[Blazer707]

what size are those pro comp rims ur running? 15's? i love those beadlocks and u pretty much made up my mind to get some.

-Thomas

[mobil1syn]

what size are those pro comp rims ur running? 15's? i love those beadlocks and u pretty much made up my mind to get some.

-Thomas
~

[Blazer707]

i guess my eyesight isnt as good as urs.....

[Mossyrocks]

you are correct my good sir. they are 16s. Im not sure if its because its 4:30 in the mornin, but I cant read that either and I usually have great sight.

[Mossyrocks]

Well, with two bent rear shafts...... again, I decided it was time to do away with the rear axle. I put in my order for a built 60 from hudlow axle yesterday morning. Should be done by middle of next week.

Ive decided that I am putting on a supercharger with the URD fuel kit.

The gas tank only holds about 7 or 8 gallons now and the skid keeps getting hung on the drive shaft so the fuel cell is very high on the list.

And Ive decided to link it front and rear. If I can manage to move some crap Im gonna run 16" coilovers on the front up to or through the hood. And then either 16" coilovers through the floor in the back or 16" shocks with coils.

The crawler is coming before the links though. And probably a twin stick on the transfer case.

[Mossyrocks]

well....... after a run on the 17th, the exo is being cut off. Im tired of its gayness and its time for an internal. I am gonna set it up to keep the sides from being caved in though. As far as dents go I couldnt care less.

[mtnkid85]

Well, with two bent rear shafts...... again, I decided it was time to do away with the rear axle. I put in my order for a built 60 from hudlow axle yesterday morning. Should be done by middle of next week.

Ive decided that I am putting on a supercharger with the URD fuel kit.

The gas tank only holds about 7 or 8 gallons now and the skid keeps getting hung on the drive shaft so the fuel cell is very high on the list.

And Ive decided to link it front and rear. If I can manage to move some crap Im gonna run 16" coilovers on the front up to or through the hood. And then either 16" coilovers through the floor in the back or 16" shocks with coils.

The crawler is coming before the links though. And probably a twin stick on the transfer case.

well....... after a run on the 17th, the exo is being cut off. Im tired of its gayness and its time for an internal. I am gonna set it up to keep the sides from being caved in though. As far as dents go I couldnt care less.

Lets see here
Hudlow 60
Supercharger & URD
Fuel cell
Links and coilovers front and rear
twinstick crawler
cut off one of the most bitchin exos on pirate and add internal...

Fawk mang want me to help spend a little more greenbacks and fabin time? Ive got a rig hurtin for a set of longs and some tube work...:grinpimp::flipoff2:

Seriosly your rig is pretty damn high on my favorites list and it keeps getting better.

[Mossyrocks]

Im fabbing to keep my mind off this fucking divorce :mad3:. And the greenbacks I dont have, well, its a good way to say this :flipoff2:

[ATLRoach]

Should have got the 9".. Your going to be hating the rock anchor of a 60.

Also give me a shout sometime I need to ride up there and hang out. Maybe some of your fab skills will rub off.

[Okiyota]

...the exo is being cut off. Im tired of its gayness...

What is this "gayness" that you speak of, i like your exo more than most others out there.

[Hayes]

Im fabbing to keep my mind off this fucking divorce :mad3:.

Sorry to hear that. Keep up the good work on the rig though, she's a beauty!

[Slapahoe]

as said 50 times already, great build.

Sorry to hear about your divorce. If you need someone to hold onto the title for you for a couple months, hit me up. :flipoff2:

[Mossyrocks]

Should have got the 9".. Your going to be hating the rock anchor of a 60.

Also give me a shout sometime I need to ride up there and hang out. Maybe some of your fab skills will rub off.

Ill get over it. There were a few reasons we decided on the 60. The anchor may be fixed though.

[GhostMoney]

Such a great rig! keep up the good work

[superman180]

What is this "gayness" that you speak of, i like your exo more than most others out there.

I am with you on this one! I have saved this truck so I can copy the exo as close as possible for my first gen runner. Your truck is sick and I am sure it will only get better:smokin:

[joenoel]

nice 4runner that thing is sweet!

[Mossyrocks]

Heres the temporary shock mounts I made. Ans I finally made some bumpstops for the back and added to the front stops. I still have to move the front shocks down to get more down because I cant use all the up.

and the 60 should be under it and rolling by saturday morning.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner15001_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner15002_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner15005_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner15003_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner15004_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner15006_700x700.jpg

[simplyxj]

Wow! This is my new favorite 4 door! Excellent clean work! subscribed

[ErikB]

Why such short shocks and so little up-travel in the rear? I'm thinking you're going to be bottoming those out a lot, especially since the bumpstops you're using look like they'll compress a bit.

You could move the bottom mounts to the front or backside of the axle tube and gain a couple inches for a longer shock and/or have more compression travel.

[simplyxj]

Why such short shocks and so little up-travel in the rear? I'm thinking you're going to be bottoming those out a lot, especially since the bumpstops you're using look like they'll compress a bit.

You could move the bottom mounts to the front or backside of the axle tube and gain a couple inches for a longer shock and/or have more compression travel.

"Heres the temporary shock mounts I made. Ans I finally made some bumpstops for the back and added to the front stops. I still have to move the front shocks down to get more down because I cant use all the up.

and the 60 should be under it and rolling by saturday morning."

Probably just because he's not using them like that for long?

[Banana Slug]

Clean build man, nice rig. That thing must be heavy with all that steal on it...?

[Mossyrocks]

I was gonna mount them in front of the 60 but I ended up moving up the top of the shock so I can put them on top of the 60. The reason they are temporary is because its getting some 16" coilovers back there in the near future.

Its very heavy with all the steel. However, it did lose a few pounds from the top and doors. And the Exo is coming off for good in a few weeks.

[Mossyrocks]

http://s44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/?action=view&current=4runner16001.flv

:D

[generalee7]

http://s44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/?action=view&current=4runner16001.flv

:D

:laughing::laughing: Nice!

[DBrown2]

I hope Hudlow, is shaving, and plating that 60 Rear?

[Mossyrocks]

I couldnt afford it. Ill shave it later. Honestly I can just grind the big ass lip off the bottom and it'll be great.

[CrashLL]

Runner looks awesone, good job!

[Mossyrocks]

mrgreen.gif

rust bucket

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner17005_700x700.jpg

The new arb

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner17002_700x700.jpg

35 splines compared to some whimpys.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner17003_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner17004_700x700.jpg

Assembled and painted. No more damn drum brakes.

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner17008_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner17009_700x700.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f35/mossyrocks/4runner17011_700x700.jpg

Also installed a wilwood proportioning valve and residual valve.

And just finished a gm 1 ton master cylinder install today. On a side note about that: Final straw, the difference in quality of the gm and toyota M.C.s is just mindblowing. The toyota M.C. seems like its machined from some beautiful steel and the GM M.C. is just a nasty lump of cast iron shit.

[customcruiser]

NICE!!!!!!

can you give me some specs on that rear disc brake conversion?? calipers, brackets, & Rotors??
gonna have an e-brake??

got a 14B on the way under mine

[Mossyrocks]

bearings are the 9" big bearings. Brake kit is from Hudlow axle. 79 chevy calipers and rotors. He redrilled the rotors for the 6 lug toy pattern. easiest to do, cheapest, and easiest to find replacement parts for. And they work wonderfully.

and no e-brake. handle was in the way of where the twin sticks are goin. And I just got a hurst line lock to use on the trail. Yet to put it in though.

[priddymofo]

Looking good, man. I think you'll be happy with the 60 with 35 spline shafts. If I could have made mine work within the budget I would have used it instead of the 14b.

[ATLRoach]

Very nice buddy!

[Mossyrocks]

Very nice buddy!


It will be after its shaved. Wont be hard, there's just a half inch lip underneath to cut off.

[SCHooch]

It will be after its shaved. Wont be hard, there's just a half inch lip underneath to cut off.


I think I read that you can machine the ring gear down a little to get a more off the bottom of the housing. :confused: Not sure though. :shaking:

[customcruiser]

seen it done on a 14B not sure of the 60

[Mossyrocks]

Phase II: project un-gay

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?p=7531123#post7531123

[Kevin96Runner]

And just finished a gm 1 ton master cylinder install today. On a side note about that: Final straw, the difference in quality of the gm and toyota M.C.s is just mindblowing. The toyota M.C. seems like its machined from some beautiful steel and the GM M.C. is just a nasty lump of cast iron shit.

So did you have to swap in a T-100 booster? I assume yours was a two bolt m/c like mine? If so what model T-100 (or other rig) did it come from?

[Mossyrocks]

it was a 2 bolt. I just welded a new flange onto the damn thing. Id like to get rid of it though.

[Kevin96Runner]

I talked to another guy on another board with a taco, 97 I think, and swapped in a 97 2.7 t-100 booster. I might see if I can find a cheep one used. Mossy, how'd yours do with the factory m/c? I'm running the same tires as you and a waggy front/factory rear for now.

[Mossyrocks]

Mine was fine until the rear disks. But mine had the bigger factory calipers on the front so I dont know if that makes a difference.

[Arizona_Jeep]

Awesome build. Sweet rig. Keep the pics coming!

[e-hills4x4]

Awesome build. Sweet rig. Keep the pics coming!

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showt...23#post7531123
:flipoff2: