@@solooverland3666 Nice truck, that’s honestly the first time I’ve ever seen a front diff having to be replaced on a 4Runner….usually it’s just a worn out cv
My brother had an 87' 4Runner. It was a brown one with the altimeter/tiltometer. He used it out in the mountains here in MT. I went with him a few times in it. That thing could go places other trucks just couldn't. One road, there was broken down trucks rotting away, and random broken axles all over. It was odd. He wishes he never sold that truck. It was an amazing rig.
A known design flaw with the front differential needle bearings. The needle bearings do not handle uneven loads very well especially when lifted. The fix is to install a solid bushing. Check out ECGS' bearing replacement solid bushing.
^^^ THIS!!! I had to do replace my needle bearing with EGCS' bushing. the steering wheel vibration went away instantly (obviously). so many people get told by uninformed 5th gen owners that they just need to get their wheels rebalanced or another alignment. all a waste of time and money. the ECGS bushing is THE fix, everything else is just a shitty bandaid.
just hit a year with my trd off road premium. I absolutely love how easy this truck eats terrain. even stock, I have no desire to lift it or add too many heavy shields. I did add the trd pro skid plate and exhaust but I also service it myself so I'm not pissing off any lube techs lol the 4runner has definitely made me more adventurous on the road and has allowed me to plan trips with my family I couldn't dream of before. I'm gonna keep it forever
They're great rigs, aren't they? I'm in a bone stock base model 98 Runner. Lean 2.7L I4 4x4, 5-speed. I've torn it up all over the mountain west and she's never once let me down.
I have a 2016 TRD Pro. While I live in the mountains and drive forest roads a lot, I don't overland much anymore, but I did put skids on the transmission and cat converters to discourage theft. I also replaced the factory gas tank skid with a much better/thicker steel unit, again to discourage drilling into the tank. Yes, I installed a locking gas cap. I also installed rock sliders to protect the truck in the event I slide around a little too much while driving in snow. At around 64k miles, I replaced the front shocks and springs with Bilstein 6112s set to the least amount of lift possible. Why? I wanted to improve handling on pavement. (GASP!) Other than that, I'm keeping my truck stock, including wheels, because it suits my needs. The last thing I wanted to do was add a bunch of cool looing gear only to realize lousy gas mileage and even worse handling, acceleration and braking. YMMV. I really love your channel, Ahmed. I've learned a lot and I really appreciate the blessing you give at the end of each video. Thanks!
I have a 1998 SR5, completely stock except LBJ's (Toyota OEM) She's only rear wheel drive but I give her hell. Never had an issue. Stock suspensions doing its thing. 197k miles. Timing belt 🤔
Not to mention parts and mechanics that know how to work on it all over the country. I sold my Tundra with uniball upper arms and the second owner had a rough time finding someone to work on it 😬
2008 4 runner. 338k and running. Almost 100k off road and about 45 K towing a boat or trailer. The 4Runner excelled. I still prefer my old 72 fj-55 for off roading but for everything else the 4Runner is king.
I'm trying to keep my 4runner stock, with the exception of upgrading to all terrain tires and adding recovery points. I am amazed at how capable a stock 4runner is off road with just a good quality set of tires - I climbed some insane trails this week, plowed through mud, over snow and ice and it didn't skip a beat. Thus far I've had no need to lift it or add a bunch of expensive crap to it. It absolutely plows in stock form.
Getting ready to take my 2021 LC on its first major off roading trip in CO next week. 640+ miles planned. I built a custom bed frame as well lol. Can’t wait!
I thought Lexus GX is the closest to the Prado. Sadly GX is short of 4runner capability things like ground clearance 8.1on GX vs 9.6on 4runner. Some of the skids are optional on GX vs 4runner has 2 skids in front and gas tank skid is standard even on base SR5. 4runner having more offroad tech like rear locker over GX is really awesome. Little things like bigger 17in tires with more clearance bumper and trim panels are really good imo.
love it. think I might add that roof rack solar panel and booster to my 2010 FJ cruiser. I live and overland in the Patagonia, and it is a long way to the next human; let alone civilization. I love the minimal nature of the overland setup. No mall crawaler bling.
I use Garmin Inreach for connectivity. Here in CO we don't get cellular in trails. very nice to send text with map pin point to my wife to let her know where I am. Also it had one touch sos in case of emergency.
@@kimbuck-2 Yeah everything seems to be okay maybe That's happening in a limited trim level since that 1 has a full time 4 wheel drive system and it's always running power through the front deferential?
@@kimbuck-2 Different drive system the limited shares its drive system with lexus GX it's a full time 4 wheel drive system with a torsen center locker So essentially the limited doesn't have a rear locker it has open front and rear differentials and it's always sending power to both front and rear differentials in 4h and 4L
Awesome! Black decal on the fake scoop is more than likely to reduce glare. Loved this video, finally some non-mall 4wd vehicle presented by a knowledgeable mechanic!
I love my 4Runner. Mine is rwd. And before I get torched in the comments, I live in Florida, flat, doesn’t snow (ha!) and I don’t need the 4wd even though I wish it had it. I know I know, there are more comfortable suvs out there if you don’t need 4wd, but I absolutely love it. There are a ton of 2wd trucks and suvs down here, because that is all you need. 2016 with 56000 miles. Worth almost as much now as when I bought it
This is sooo Cool. I wish I could do some mods to my MK3 RAV4 but to be fair it spends more time on motorways so no point. I think we can all imagine how amazing this guy's trips around are. 😁🤩 Keep the videos coming and take care. Al the best from the UK
I love your mechanical drivetrain, suspension and engine components explained programs. Helps people like I and many other that interested in learning more about these vehicles. Thank you very much for your hard works in these excellent programs.
4 Runner and FJ Cruiser hold up pretty well under off roading quite well with the right approach. Unlike other so called hard core off roaders both handle off road without any pretense with just a tire change.
It IS a cool 4Runner! And ur always SO courteous,as usual. Sleeping in the back, I see ppl doing it in Prii now. Yes, he's tough om his truck, but well maintained! 👍 great video!
Great in depth review of a customer Toy 4Runner...people that spend 50+grand for this type of vehicle are reluctant to damage it... This customer utilizes his machine and money is no object. Thx
That would be me. I'm on my second one, soon to be looking for a third. Sold the first at 257k miles, current has 175k. I buy the Limited model. The ride, handling, comfort, ride height, and spaciousness suits me perfectly. I'm 6'5" and love the horizontal entry, I just slide right in onto the seat. We have a Honda Accord also, by contrast I feel like I'm doing squats getting in and out of it. I just watched a video about how 4Runners might be the best made vehicle in the world because they are still made in the same factory in Japan where the assemblers have 25-35 years' experience making them right next to the Lexus counterpart. I love the look, especially the tire width, I think it suits the vehicle perfectly. So, yes, it's a highway queen/grocery getter but no one complains when I pull them out of the snow drift in the winter.
@@michaelcoughlin8238 . The 4Runner is actually my favorite SUV and was my number one choice when I was in the market for a vehicle a few months ago. I couldn't find one on a lot anywhere within a hundred-mile radius. I agree with all of your points and can't understand for the life of me why reviewers always criticize the way the 4Runner drives, it's a vehicle built on a truck chassis for heaven's sake. Glad you had the opportunity to own one.
2018 TRD Off Road Economy here! All stock except BFG'S AT tires. Been all over with it. Best trip was through Hells revenge in Moab Utah. It took me hours to navigate through. No damage on anything, scratches and scuffs on lower bumper and skid plates. Both times through were the experience of a white knuckle lifetime. I'll be going back....
AMD, If I read between the lines correctly and follow your discreet trail of subtle hints, I think you may just be suggesting the 4Runner is not the SUV for the drive-thru it is the SUV for the Drive-Over 🤔
I own a lifted FJ and a 4Runner. Very capable offroad. The FJ has been wheeled in most western states and all the way up to 12,000+ ft. Miles of smiles.
4Runners & Land Cruisers are some of the most reliable 4x4 vehicles. FORD is having catastrophic engine problems with their new Bronco. NHTSA is now investigating.
Toyota's are generally reliable.. but if you're talking a work truck off road their front end are ok but not the best.. 20 years experience in mining where most vehicles will never see a paved roads.. from Ford, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Nissan, GM, Toyota's and Mazda droven day and night 7 days a week.. they all have pro and cons but i won't put a Toyota in the top spot regardless of it being the best seller not in these conditions..
Just bought a 20 TRD Off Road plain. Didn't really want all the 4WD extras (crawl, manual 4WD shifting), but I see the incredible coolness in old school design... A future life in a snowy, icy place is the reason I wanted 4WD... With maintenance, 300k is plausible. That's why I got it.
I bought my 4runner to go in the snow when everyone else is struggling to get out of the driveway. I can't see beating it up over the rocks, but that's just me. I would rather use a 4 wheeler or side by side for that.
Hello again, I'm new to your channel and I had to watch this video because of my buying a new 2024 4Runner. You've pretty much convinced me to buy the off road premium instead of the TRD Pro and I thank you for helping me in that decision. I'm finding your video fascinating, well presented, and absolutely brilliant, thank you, you are amazing.
Very nice truck. His 4runner and mine have similarities in the RCI skid plate department. I’ve re-geared my differentials to 4.56 and replaced the driver side needle bearings with a solid copper bushing. I hope to bring you my truck one day to check it out. Your channel is awesome.
I have a 2016 TRD Pro. I've added larger tires but not so large I need to trim fenders or lift it. I camp, hunt and fish in the mountains of central Idaho and have had to use the locking rear diff to get out of situations several times. I've been on snowy trails while getting out to elk hunting grounds and the crawl control has been a life saver. Going downhill off-road, on a snow covered trail, the crawl control is a life saver. If you tried to use 4 Hi and just control with your brakes, you will slide down out of control. The 4low crawl control gives you amazing downhill control in super snowy/slippery conditions. I've hit my front skid plate a few times but nothing serious. The front attack angle is awesome because you can really take on a steep angle without hitting the front bumper. I've added rock sliders and have had several situations where they got scuffed going over angled rocks. The front tire clears and drops over before the rear tire hits it and climbs over. The rock then hits the rock slider and it causes the 4runner to kind of "pivot" a bit around the rock. super capable vehicle with no after market suspension (just the TRD Pro package and larger tires). 125k miles and it's still going strong.
Great tour of this truck. Thank you. Love that Toyota makes a quality product for this adventure driving. I'd have damaged my kidneys with this much offroading, but I'm not young anymore. lol I'll stick with my LS430 :)
Love the 4Runner... trying to keep the paint good on mine so no serious off roading, but some cool forest roads to some nice places are in the plans. great stuff AMD :- ) I'm going to check out his adventures, looks very cool !!
Love your vids. I had two 5th gen 4runners. With current affairs and a small emergency. I had to trade my modified 20 Pro - which I loved! I traded it in for a 2019 Camry Hybrid SE. What a different experience. Lol. Good news - No car payment. I'll get my redesigned 6th gen when the economy comes back. Keep up the great vids. Love your channel.
@@user-tb7rn1il3q Lol. When ya lose 500k in the stock market in less then 6 months. You'd be amazed at the comfort of a car. Yes, 6th gen, just a matter of time. Peace.
@@skippylippy547 Have you looked into NESARA, National Economic Security And Reformation Act (presently merging into GESARA, Global ESARA)? All 210 countries of the world have signed on, and are proceeding with new gold/asset-backed currencies, no longer associated with the privately owned central bank systems. The constitutional republic will return!
@@charlesbranch4120 Wow! Thank you for pointing this out to me. I started reading more about this and found new hope in the return of our Constitutional Republic. You rock Charles, thanks again. 👍
Thanks for keeping it real! Enjoyed this review. BTW, fully accesorized "mall cruisers" can make great used 4Runner purchases for your off road adventures.
I have a 50 quart ARB fridge. I haven't done off-pavement camping with it, but they are designed to take the pounding and vibration of off-pavement adventuring. They are expensive, but you are paying for quality and reliability. The KO-2's are just about the best All-Terrain tires you can buy for a 4-Runner or Rav4. Falken Wild Peak tires are good too, I have a set of those on my truck, and they've survived several hundred miles of off-pavement driving in Death Valley. Nice looking 4-Runner!
Do it get one while you can because next year they are going to release the 6 gen 4Runner and they are Going to change a lot of things including the power plant and transmission I got a 2022 4Runner TRD off-road premium and I love it so much its really awesome truck
@@tundras4ever552 Yeah the 5.7 l V8 is legendary I've seen with 750000 miles on them and there's a guy That had one that had over a million miles on it Is that regularly seen them over 500000 miles
I did rated trails up to difficult with a trd. But the belly hangs much lower than the body. So clearance because an issue. I then lifted with a Fante h 6” lift. That help a lot. Ultimately traded it in for a Jeeep which was what I should have gotten in the first place. For most things, it will be more than enough and I had zero issues with it. Just adding mt tires will compensate for no front locker.
Cool setup and really fun to see how people build out their vehicles. This is also a cool glimpse of how parts wear when used in harsher conditions. And if I may add to something you said AMD(because I'm a nerd), I'd reckon the reliability of a modded 4Runner/Tacoma is going to be dependent on the quality of the aftermarket parts you use. There's quite the board range of parts based on my limited experience. As an exaggerated fun example, if you look up "Big Mikes Tacoma" or "Slowest Tacoma" you will find a ton of videos of a White 2016 Tacoma on 37"s that gets 20MPGs highway and overall handles well both on and off road. In fact, the Marlin Crawler RCLT HD is the only aftermarket kit that I'm aware of that makes IFS as tough as solid axle. And on the other end of the spectrum you have cheap spacer lifts that limit your up-travel to clear larger tires and make for an overall rougher ride. You will find these as kits installed by some dealerships like where I bought my Tacoma. As a side note in the near future, hopefully, Accutune will finally release their new upper A-Arm that allows for 33"s without a Cab Mount Chop or anything weird. This is what dealers should do for folks wanting larger tires as it's more cost affective > better ride > closest you can get to OEM while clearing larger tires.
I miss my 2003 V8 4Runner with the TRD supercharger, got rid of it at 210k miles. No mention of an auxillary or larger gas tank. This vehicle's range has to be severely compromised with all the modifications.
Very nice to see 4runner content. However I don't agree about the KO2 statement as both my SR5 and TRD ORP got KO2s with stock wheels. Road force balance at discount tire make perfect wheel balance as any other tire. May be Toyota dealership don't have that kind of equipment why getting bad rep for oversize A/T tires. Very interesting to see this owner used RCI mid skid with the stock skid. I didn't know it could be done. I replaced stock with full RCI. I wonder if that is Camburg long travel kit is why the front diff needs to be replaced? But suspension seems to be old Toytec Boss kit. So not sure. I thought a diff drop kit would bring the angles to spec unless its long travel kit. Its very nice 4runner have a big aftermarket support even with highend suspension with adjusters that makes off-road driving like driving on pavement. Really love suspension like ELKA 2.5DC on my TRD ORP by far better than TRD Pro Fox shocks. Wish the second battery was moved to passenger side to balance the weight. I could go on an on talking about 4runner 😂😂 Congratz to the owner for having fun with the 4runner. I know they are so addictive why my whole family have 4runners. My wife have no sympathy for vehicles so 4runner is perfect for her even on day-to-day city use.😅
Diff drop doesn't really do all that much. Doesn't hurt anything like some claim but it doesn't drastically improve the CV angles. That said it is at least a cheap mod. I think most people overdo it on lifts though. I have a 98 and it originally had 3" spacer lift. I actually lowered the lift in front a bit going with a proper OME suspension and now only have just under 2". CV angles are much better now and I still have more clearance in front than I do on the rear pumpkin. Still plenty capable with a more modest lift and much less wear potential on the front.
Thank you, AMD, for more 4Runner content. Your original videos convinced me to buy my 4Runner in fall 2020, and I couldn’t be happier. One question though, although equipped with the snorkel, I wonder if you would be concerned about getting water in the engine, transmission or transfer case, at the indicated ‘Water level’? Seems like the electronics could also be vulnerable to damage when submerged to that degree.
The engine is protected to a point but the rest is not and thats something of a concern in deep water levels unless you relocate the vents on them higher.
From open water dive class, from the surface to 4' depth the water pressure change is large enough , you need to equalize pressure on your eardrums and if that doesn't happen abort the dive. The big concern in submerging the undercarriage of the truck is that water under that pressure forces its way into hubs, differentials and other parts. I knew years later that a truck I'd been assigned to drive suffered from that when we tried to manually lock and unlock the front hubs, and one side went freely and the other side wouldn't go without the persuasion of a wrench to get us the many miles home. Sounded like ball bearings at chainsaw speed, as the hub chewed up the axle end (1976 F250 in 1978, past the 50k miles trade-in).
Great information! I’m never going to go to this level with mine, and I kind of shake my head when I see this done for on road 4Runners. However, to each their own!
I go to the desert and mountain states to wheel on extended trips 3-4 times a year, and I wheel alone. I need these mods and recovery gear to go remotely, where I want, come back safely, and get myself out when I get stuck 🤷 It all depends on your application…
Thanks for the 4runner content. I love my 4runner, but it needs some work. I bought a limited model, and the ground clearance with the body kit is getting in my way. It's been my daily driver for 8 years now, I wouldn't trade it for any other vehicle. I am having one real issue with it, the head unit resets itself during trips of more than a few hours. Setting my gps, knowing I need to go 50 miles down the same road before an exit and having it reset somewhere along the road and going too far is getting a little old.
@@tuckerhiggins4336 Quite a few of them. I plan to do the same. I've thought quite honestly about buying a used trd model and slapping my interior in it. But quite honestly, there isn't anything in the back country my apparently fake 4runner can't do as long as I'm willing to trash my front facia. I was smart enough to pick up a 4x4 model.
They all have the same ground clearance. Only the body kit it killing approach and departure angles. My Limited got a 2.5in front and 1.5in rear lift with 285/70R17 tires. i think its a good improvement. I couple of weeks im planning to play with another lift from Ironman. This is what I have for now - czcams.com/video/BvV0GGCaVM4/video.html
@@BB-wj8dv change the unit, I changed mine to an Android based one, the brand is Daisata, they have review videos here, your 4Runner will feel modern again
I couldn’t shake thinking about a special that I watched on the mysteries behind crater formations on Mars. It just kept bothering me and I couldn’t put it out of my mind…luckily though I own a 4runner, so I was able to go check them out for myself!! It has a setting for space travel, but you just have to get the Off Road or TRD Pro trim.
The freedom & independence that comes with that truck! The shields are a great idea. Are there shields that are available to protect catalytic converters from being stolen?
Thanks to your Highlander video, I learnt that my ‘21 rav4 has remote start just be using the key fob! My wife thanks you… my gas budget will take a hit…
We have a 2019 SR5P. Just put four Goodyear Duratrac tires on it and enjoyed my otherwise stock 4runner on interesting roads in Wyoming and North Dakota. Very capable truck. Your comments about lifting and how the rest of the trucks can be affected is something I have suspected. I have no interest in changing the dynamics of the suspension and drive train so I will enjoy my stock runner anyway in offroad environments, knowing the limitations and capabilities.
Thank you, AMD, and everyone’s comments!
In case everyone’s wondering:
2018 TRD 4Runner Off-Road Premium, 89,000 miles
ToyTec lift
Camburg UCAs
Overland Custom Design sway bar links
Warn mounting front bumper
10,000 lbs Smittybilt winch
TRD front plate
RCI full skid set (transmission, transfer case, gas tank, rear diff)
Shrockworks rock sliders
Rhino Rack Pioneer roof rack
100W Renogy solar panel
2000W inverter
Genesis Offroad dual battery setup
TJM snorkel
AuxBeam ditch lights
42L fridge
Very nice have you used it for towing?
Soooo…NOT a Toyota… if you need that much “help”; proper test would be with a stock 4Runner ad see how it does
@@TimeforchangeTrudeaumustgoEndb No. no trailer, no boat
@@solooverland3666 it's a nice ride definitely be nice here in Alberta in the mountains . Hidden away in nature with a nice camp fire...
@@solooverland3666 Nice truck, that’s honestly the first time I’ve ever seen a front diff having to be replaced on a 4Runner….usually it’s just a worn out cv
I’m from Canada and met Solo Overland during my US overland trip in Capitol Reef National Park on July 2019.
Love the 4Runner content and hope you do more. Such a gorgeous, well-built vehicle.
They are quite handsome. Love mine. Wish their sedans were more attractive though 🤣
One thing I've noticed vs other brands is that the clearcoat is so well made that Nissan I used to have would of lost its clearcoat at 87000 miles
@@darthtyranus7683 absolutely that clear coat on the paint was so shiny a testament to Toyota quality
I think Toyota 4-Runners are the King of off road. Durability, Quality, Reliability, Dependability. Great video 😌 God Bless 🙏
Jeeps eats a 4Runners lunch off road. And with maintenance are reliable as well. I have both and love both.
Get real@@Offshore1977
My brother had an 87' 4Runner. It was a brown one with the altimeter/tiltometer. He used it out in the mountains here in MT. I went with him a few times in it. That thing could go places other trucks just couldn't. One road, there was broken down trucks rotting away, and random broken axles all over. It was odd. He wishes he never sold that truck. It was an amazing rig.
I took your advice and bought myself a new 4Runner TRD Off Road Premium and couldn’t be happier. Thanks for all your advice.
A known design flaw with the front differential needle bearings. The needle bearings do not handle uneven loads very well especially when lifted. The fix is to install a solid bushing. Check out ECGS' bearing replacement solid bushing.
^^^ THIS!!! I had to do replace my needle bearing with EGCS' bushing. the steering wheel vibration went away instantly (obviously). so many people get told by uninformed 5th gen owners that they just need to get their wheels rebalanced or another alignment. all a waste of time and money. the ECGS bushing is THE fix, everything else is just a shitty bandaid.
@@JaredBusch did you have the shimmy from like 55-65 or just vibration.
Good to know! Thank you.
This is a vehicle built for the apocalypse.
You are 100% and then some, correct. 👊🏼
It would have been perfect in the movie I am Legend!
I’m working on it. A couple mods still needed. Thank you!
Built for Saudi Arabia where gas is abundant and cheap.🤑
We’ll technically run out of gas in an apocalypse so this thing would be worthless
just hit a year with my trd off road premium. I absolutely love how easy this truck eats terrain. even stock, I have no desire to lift it or add too many heavy shields. I did add the trd pro skid plate and exhaust but I also service it myself so I'm not pissing off any lube techs lol
the 4runner has definitely made me more adventurous on the road and has allowed me to plan trips with my family I couldn't dream of before. I'm gonna keep it forever
They're great rigs, aren't they? I'm in a bone stock base model 98 Runner. Lean 2.7L I4 4x4, 5-speed. I've torn it up all over the mountain west and she's never once let me down.
I have a 2016 TRD Pro. While I live in the mountains and drive forest roads a lot, I don't overland much anymore, but I did put skids on the transmission and cat converters to discourage theft. I also replaced the factory gas tank skid with a much better/thicker steel unit, again to discourage drilling into the tank. Yes, I installed a locking gas cap. I also installed rock sliders to protect the truck in the event I slide around a little too much while driving in snow. At around 64k miles, I replaced the front shocks and springs with Bilstein 6112s set to the least amount of lift possible. Why? I wanted to improve handling on pavement. (GASP!) Other than that, I'm keeping my truck stock, including wheels, because it suits my needs. The last thing I wanted to do was add a bunch of cool looing gear only to realize lousy gas mileage and even worse handling, acceleration and braking. YMMV.
I really love your channel, Ahmed. I've learned a lot and I really appreciate the blessing you give at the end of each video. Thanks!
I have a 1998 SR5, completely stock except LBJ's (Toyota OEM)
She's only rear wheel drive but I give her hell. Never had an issue. Stock suspensions doing its thing. 197k miles. Timing belt 🤔
Not to mention parts and mechanics that know how to work on it all over the country.
I sold my Tundra with uniball upper arms and the second owner had a rough time finding someone to work on it 😬
Just bought a 2019 Off Road today for $42,000 with whopping 8,000 miles on it. I thought I got a pretty good deal.
2008 4 runner. 338k and running. Almost 100k off road and about 45 K towing a boat or trailer. The 4Runner excelled. I still prefer my old 72 fj-55 for off roading but for everything else the 4Runner is king.
Great looking 4Runner. AMD is partly responsible for me getting my ‘22 4R off-road. These are amazing trucks.
❤️ I love my 2020 TRD OffRoad Premium 4Runner!
I take it on some serious off-road trips. It takes a beating. 👍
Love this channel. Thank you.
This guy really hasn't left any loose ends on this truck. I love it!
Thank you, Sir! Happy trails…
@solooverland3666 she's a sweet looking ride. Function and fashion! I'm considering getting a trd pro. I look forward to checking out your channel.
Thanks for sharing, 4Runners are the best!
I'm trying to keep my 4runner stock, with the exception of upgrading to all terrain tires and adding recovery points. I am amazed at how capable a stock 4runner is off road with just a good quality set of tires - I climbed some insane trails this week, plowed through mud, over snow and ice and it didn't skip a beat. Thus far I've had no need to lift it or add a bunch of expensive crap to it. It absolutely plows in stock form.
But they look sick with the expensive crap
You need a two inch leveling kit. 60 bux two hrs of your time. Changes everything.
@@RagingBad lol
I'm glad I have a 2019 pro and I love it, thank you AMD for 4runner videos.
Getting ready to take my 2021 LC on its first major off roading trip in CO next week. 640+ miles planned. I built a custom bed frame as well lol. Can’t wait!
The 4R actually a Land Cruiser Prado! We love them!
I thought Lexus GX is the closest to the Prado. Sadly GX is short of 4runner capability things like ground clearance 8.1on GX vs 9.6on 4runner. Some of the skids are optional on GX vs 4runner has 2 skids in front and gas tank skid is standard even on base SR5. 4runner having more offroad tech like rear locker over GX is really awesome. Little things like bigger 17in tires with more clearance bumper and trim panels are really good imo.
@@LionRunner both 4R and Gx are Prados. Isn't that right car care nut!
Good the owner shared some of his adventure clips with you (and us).
I ordered a 2022 4Runner trd pro last September and I'm still waiting. Can't wait to get it!
By the time you get your 4Runner hopefully gas price will go back to normal :).
TRD pro is the longest waits for any truck. Nephew waiting over 1 yr
love it. think I might add that roof rack solar panel and booster to my 2010 FJ cruiser. I live and overland in the Patagonia, and it is a long way to the next human; let alone civilization. I love the minimal nature of the overland setup. No mall crawaler bling.
I use Garmin Inreach for connectivity. Here in CO we don't get cellular in trails. very nice to send text with map pin point to my wife to let her know where I am. Also it had one touch sos in case of emergency.
@@LionRunner Same here. Can't do what I do at my old age without it!
Keeps wife happy knowing everything is OK.
I love how you appreciate when a vehicle is used for its purpose. I love wheeling my FJ.
Awesome video! I bought a 4runner recently and I can’t wait to start taking it off roading!
I got a 2022 4Runner TRD off-road premium same color and I got 10k miles on it and I love it I hope to keep it for many many years
@@kimbuck-2 nope everything fine I got 18k on it now
@@kimbuck-2 Yeah everything seems to be okay maybe That's happening in a limited trim level since that 1 has a full time 4 wheel drive system and it's always running power through the front deferential?
@@kimbuck-2 Different drive system the limited shares its drive system with lexus GX it's a full time 4 wheel drive system with a torsen center locker So essentially the limited doesn't have a rear locker it has open front and rear differentials and it's always sending power to both front and rear differentials in 4h and 4L
Love my 22 trd off-road 4rnr. I opted for black so I didn’t have to wait too long.
Awesome! Black decal on the fake scoop is more than likely to reduce glare. Loved this video, finally some non-mall 4wd vehicle presented by a knowledgeable mechanic!
Exactly, to eliminate the glare! Thank you!
@@solooverland3666 Dude, your car is fantastic!
@@Stanjara Thank you kindly! 🙏🏼
what's wrong with malls?
I have a 2000 limited 4×4 with 228000 miles & very minor problems over all these years, great vehicles
I love my 4Runner. Mine is rwd. And before I get torched in the comments, I live in Florida, flat, doesn’t snow (ha!) and I don’t need the 4wd even though I wish it had it. I know I know, there are more comfortable suvs out there if you don’t need 4wd, but I absolutely love it. There are a ton of 2wd trucks and suvs down here, because that is all you need. 2016 with 56000 miles. Worth almost as much now as when I bought it
This is sooo Cool. I wish I could do some mods to my MK3 RAV4 but to be fair it spends more time on motorways so no point. I think we can all imagine how amazing this guy's trips around are. 😁🤩 Keep the videos coming and take care. Al the best from the UK
I love your mechanical drivetrain, suspension and engine components explained programs. Helps people like I and many other that interested in learning more about these vehicles. Thank you very much for your hard works in these excellent programs.
4 Runner and FJ Cruiser hold up pretty well under off roading quite well with the right approach. Unlike other so called hard core off roaders both handle off road without any pretense with just a tire change.
yes we beat our GX460 pretty good... they are all well built Toyotas
It IS a cool 4Runner! And ur always SO courteous,as usual. Sleeping in the back, I see ppl doing it in Prii now. Yes, he's tough om his truck, but well maintained! 👍 great video!
Great in depth review of a customer Toy 4Runner...people that spend 50+grand for this type of vehicle are reluctant to damage it...
This customer utilizes his machine and money is no object. Thx
Nice review. It's interesting how folks buy the 4Runner but never go off-roading.
Mind-blowing, really… They’re meant for 4x4
That would be me. I'm on my second one, soon to be looking for a third. Sold the first at 257k miles, current has 175k. I buy the Limited model. The ride, handling, comfort, ride height, and spaciousness suits me perfectly. I'm 6'5" and love the horizontal entry, I just slide right in onto the seat. We have a Honda Accord also, by contrast I feel like I'm doing squats getting in and out of it. I just watched a video about how 4Runners might be the best made vehicle in the world because they are still made in the same factory in Japan where the assemblers have 25-35 years' experience making them right next to the Lexus counterpart. I love the look, especially the tire width, I think it suits the vehicle perfectly. So, yes, it's a highway queen/grocery getter but no one complains when I pull them out of the snow drift in the winter.
@@michaelcoughlin8238 . The 4Runner is actually my favorite SUV and was my number one choice when I was in the market for a vehicle a few months ago. I couldn't find one on a lot anywhere within a hundred-mile radius. I agree with all of your points and can't understand for the life of me why reviewers always criticize the way the 4Runner drives, it's a vehicle built on a truck chassis for heaven's sake. Glad you had the opportunity to own one.
Kinda like having a condom in your wallet, it's better to have one and not need it, than to need it and not have it, right !!
2018 TRD Off Road Economy here! All stock except BFG'S AT tires. Been all over with it. Best trip was through Hells revenge in Moab Utah. It took me hours to navigate through. No damage on anything, scratches and scuffs on lower bumper and skid plates. Both times through were the experience of a white knuckle lifetime. I'll be going back....
The Led Zeppelin sticker is bad ass!
AMD, If I read between the lines correctly and follow your discreet trail of subtle hints, I think you may just be suggesting the 4Runner is not the SUV for the drive-thru
it is the SUV for the Drive-Over 🤔
It is in its stock form! Don’t spend a fortune modifying it and never off road with it as it becomes counter productive
@@TheCarCareNut 😁
The best when a vehicle used by the purpose. Nice review AMD. Thank you.
I own a lifted FJ and a 4Runner. Very capable offroad. The FJ has been wheeled in most western states and all the way up to 12,000+ ft. Miles of smiles.
Thanks for the knowledge. that's good to know about lift disadvantage.
4Runners & Land Cruisers are some of the most reliable 4x4 vehicles. FORD is having catastrophic engine problems with their new Bronco. NHTSA is now investigating.
Get the 5th Gen before they are gone.
Toyota's are generally reliable.. but if you're talking a work truck off road their front end are ok but not the best.. 20 years experience in mining where most vehicles will never see a paved roads.. from Ford, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Nissan, GM, Toyota's and Mazda droven day and night 7 days a week.. they all have pro and cons but i won't put a Toyota in the top spot regardless of it being the best seller not in these conditions..
@@joebrown9621 So what is the best bruh?
@@joebrown9621 you gave no reasons to back your claims but a random person with 100 years of experience so trust me bro?
@@joebrown9621 give reasons or STFU
Amazing comprehensive video thanks
Just bought a 20 TRD Off Road plain. Didn't really want all the 4WD extras (crawl, manual 4WD shifting), but I see the incredible coolness in old school design... A future life in a snowy, icy place is the reason I wanted 4WD...
With maintenance, 300k is plausible. That's why I got it.
Great video as always, love your 4runner videos, especially since I own and love mine. Thanks AMD 👍
I bought my 4runner to go in the snow when everyone else is struggling to get out of the driveway. I can't see beating it up over the rocks, but that's just me. I would rather use a 4 wheeler or side by side for that.
Awesome 4RUNNER 👍👍 happy wheeling!!
Thank you very much! That’s the plan…
Hello again, I'm new to your channel and I had to watch this video because of my buying a new 2024 4Runner. You've pretty much convinced me to buy the off road premium instead of the TRD Pro and I thank you for helping me in that decision. I'm finding your video fascinating, well presented, and absolutely brilliant, thank you, you are amazing.
I can't wait until I get my 4RUNNER!!!
Hope you can afford the gas in next few years, if you can good
Very nice truck. His 4runner and mine have similarities in the RCI skid plate department. I’ve re-geared my differentials to 4.56 and replaced the driver side needle bearings with a solid copper bushing. I hope to bring you my truck one day to check it out. Your channel is awesome.
Really liked that you show the underneath of the car. Thank you!
I have a 2016 TRD Pro. I've added larger tires but not so large I need to trim fenders or lift it. I camp, hunt and fish in the mountains of central Idaho and have had to use the locking rear diff to get out of situations several times. I've been on snowy trails while getting out to elk hunting grounds and the crawl control has been a life saver. Going downhill off-road, on a snow covered trail, the crawl control is a life saver. If you tried to use 4 Hi and just control with your brakes, you will slide down out of control. The 4low crawl control gives you amazing downhill control in super snowy/slippery conditions.
I've hit my front skid plate a few times but nothing serious. The front attack angle is awesome because you can really take on a steep angle without hitting the front bumper. I've added rock sliders and have had several situations where they got scuffed going over angled rocks. The front tire clears and drops over before the rear tire hits it and climbs over. The rock then hits the rock slider and it causes the 4runner to kind of "pivot" a bit around the rock.
super capable vehicle with no after market suspension (just the TRD Pro package and larger tires). 125k miles and it's still going strong.
Great tour of this truck. Thank you. Love that Toyota makes a quality product for this adventure driving. I'd have damaged my kidneys with this much offroading, but I'm not young anymore. lol I'll stick with my LS430 :)
Off roading won't damage kidneys
@@RagingBad chose tougher courses and you’ll get there
@@Zephyrdaze1819 nope, unless you're doing Baja every week
Love the 4Runner... trying to keep the paint good on mine so no serious off roading, but some cool forest roads to some nice places are in the plans. great stuff AMD :- ) I'm going to check out his adventures, looks very cool !!
The best pin striping on a 4Runner comes from sage brush and pine trees.
Love your vids. I had two 5th gen 4runners. With current affairs and a small emergency. I had to trade my modified 20 Pro - which I loved! I traded it in for a 2019 Camry Hybrid SE. What a different experience. Lol. Good news - No car payment. I'll get my redesigned 6th gen when the economy comes back. Keep up the great vids. Love your channel.
There’s no way I could drive a car. They sit way too low and are not as safe. Hopefully you can get into a 6th Gen in a year or two.
@@user-tb7rn1il3q Lol. When ya lose 500k in the stock market in less then 6 months. You'd be amazed at the comfort of a car. Yes, 6th gen, just a matter of time. Peace.
"When the economy comes back" ???
When will this happen? LOL!
The Great Reset is now in full swing and "We will own nothing and be happy". 🤣
@@skippylippy547 Have you looked into NESARA, National Economic Security And Reformation Act (presently merging into GESARA, Global ESARA)? All 210 countries of the world have signed on, and are proceeding with new gold/asset-backed currencies, no longer associated with the privately owned central bank systems. The constitutional republic will return!
@@charlesbranch4120 Wow!
Thank you for pointing this out to me. I started reading more about this and found new hope in the return of our Constitutional Republic.
You rock Charles, thanks again. 👍
That 4Runner owner is for real.
😎👍 ❤❤❤
Thank you! 🙏🏼
Good video to watch as a 4runner owner too. Mods always best for function, not form, agreed👍
Thanks for keeping it real! Enjoyed this review. BTW, fully accesorized "mall cruisers" can make great used 4Runner purchases for your off road adventures.
Very informative, love your channel, thank you!
4runner content is YOUR BEST.
4runner is excellent offroad and super reliable. If that's important to you, definetly get one! 😃✌️
I have a 50 quart ARB fridge. I haven't done off-pavement camping with it, but they are designed to take the pounding and vibration of off-pavement adventuring. They are expensive, but you are paying for quality and reliability. The KO-2's are just about the best All-Terrain tires you can buy for a 4-Runner or Rav4. Falken Wild Peak tires are good too, I have a set of those on my truck, and they've survived several hundred miles of off-pavement driving in Death Valley. Nice looking 4-Runner!
4Runners are like mini tanks. Most people keep them forever. Have been debating trading in my tundra for a Trd off-road 4Runner
Do it get one while you can because next year they are going to release the 6 gen 4Runner and they are Going to change a lot of things including the power plant and transmission I got a 2022 4Runner TRD off-road premium and I love it so much its really awesome truck
@@davidaix5771 yea just hard letting go of the 5.7 v8 haha but I’m thinking for sure
@@tundras4ever552 Yeah the 5.7 l V8 is legendary I've seen with 750000 miles on them and there's a guy That had one that had over a million miles on it Is that regularly seen them over 500000 miles
AMD, can you do a video on how to undercoat your car for rust?
Awesome car
A great video. I have a 2016 TE 4Runner that’s goes off-road but not extreme.
You pointed out one of the down sides to lifting Toyota trucks with IFS is the diffs can't handle the CV angles and fail. that's why I traded mine.
Oh man, been waiting for AMD to do a TRD Pro or at least a modified off roady 4Runner
The envy of many, wanderlust
I did rated trails up to difficult with a trd. But the belly hangs much lower than the body. So clearance because an issue. I then lifted with a Fante h 6” lift. That help a lot. Ultimately traded it in for a Jeeep which was what I should have gotten in the first place.
For most things, it will be more than enough and I had zero issues with it. Just adding mt tires will compensate for no front locker.
Great review!! Awesome 4Runner, really nice to see the story behind this vehicle.
Thanks for sharing this video,AMD, very interesting and nice truck.
Beautiful 4Runner!!!
Thank you!
Love your vids almost as much as I love my 4runner. Your content helped me decide! Hope the rewards are coming for your efforts.
Fake hood scoop has got to go but I love the rest of the 4Runner though
Cool setup and really fun to see how people build out their vehicles.
This is also a cool glimpse of how parts wear when used in harsher conditions.
And if I may add to something you said AMD(because I'm a nerd), I'd reckon the reliability of a modded 4Runner/Tacoma is going to be dependent on the quality of the aftermarket parts you use.
There's quite the board range of parts based on my limited experience.
As an exaggerated fun example, if you look up "Big Mikes Tacoma" or "Slowest Tacoma" you will find a ton of videos of a White 2016 Tacoma on 37"s that gets 20MPGs highway and overall handles well both on and off road.
In fact, the Marlin Crawler RCLT HD is the only aftermarket kit that I'm aware of that makes IFS as tough as solid axle.
And on the other end of the spectrum you have cheap spacer lifts that limit your up-travel to clear larger tires and make for an overall rougher ride.
You will find these as kits installed by some dealerships like where I bought my Tacoma.
As a side note in the near future, hopefully, Accutune will finally release their new upper A-Arm that allows for 33"s without a Cab Mount Chop or anything weird.
This is what dealers should do for folks wanting larger tires as it's more cost affective > better ride > closest you can get to OEM while clearing larger tires.
Woops, I forgot that SPC makes upper A-Arms that also allow for 33"s tires without a CMC.
You just have to figure out the special adjustment first.
@@megahurts2 JBA also makes them
Find a good alignment tech. I run 33s no rub on or off-road w factory components
Cool Truck.. Monument Valley I know it well look at my avatar. That red sand/ clay gets every were. Thanks for that great info on the 4 Runner !!
Lovely review for a lovely unit.
I miss my 2003 V8 4Runner with the TRD supercharger, got rid of it at 210k miles. No mention of an auxillary or larger gas tank. This vehicle's range has to be severely compromised with all the modifications.
~320 mile range with stock gas tank. Sufficient for 99% of applications in the Americas
@@Slavic_Eagle do you own one?
Very nice to see 4runner content. However I don't agree about the KO2 statement as both my SR5 and TRD ORP got KO2s with stock wheels. Road force balance at discount tire make perfect wheel balance as any other tire. May be Toyota dealership don't have that kind of equipment why getting bad rep for oversize A/T tires. Very interesting to see this owner used RCI mid skid with the stock skid. I didn't know it could be done. I replaced stock with full RCI. I wonder if that is Camburg long travel kit is why the front diff needs to be replaced? But suspension seems to be old Toytec Boss kit. So not sure. I thought a diff drop kit would bring the angles to spec unless its long travel kit. Its very nice 4runner have a big aftermarket support even with highend suspension with adjusters that makes off-road driving like driving on pavement. Really love suspension like ELKA 2.5DC on my TRD ORP by far better than TRD Pro Fox shocks. Wish the second battery was moved to passenger side to balance the weight. I could go on an on talking about 4runner 😂😂 Congratz to the owner for having fun with the 4runner. I know they are so addictive why my whole family have 4runners. My wife have no sympathy for vehicles so 4runner is perfect for her even on day-to-day city use.😅
He needs to install a front differential drop in order to restore factory driveline geometry. Other than that, looks like a decent rig.
They need to add a front diff drop kit to flatten out the axle angles.
Diff drop doesn't really do all that much. Doesn't hurt anything like some claim but it doesn't drastically improve the CV angles. That said it is at least a cheap mod. I think most people overdo it on lifts though. I have a 98 and it originally had 3" spacer lift. I actually lowered the lift in front a bit going with a proper OME suspension and now only have just under 2". CV angles are much better now and I still have more clearance in front than I do on the rear pumpkin. Still plenty capable with a more modest lift and much less wear potential on the front.
Wheels are off the ground. I run 33s no diff drop needed
Thank you, AMD, for more 4Runner content. Your original videos convinced me to buy my 4Runner in fall 2020, and I couldn’t be happier.
One question though, although equipped with the snorkel, I wonder if you would be concerned about getting water in the engine, transmission or transfer case, at the indicated ‘Water level’? Seems like the electronics could also be vulnerable to damage when submerged to that degree.
The engine is protected to a point but the rest is not and thats something of a concern in deep water levels unless you relocate the vents on them higher.
From open water dive class, from the surface to 4' depth the water pressure change is large enough , you need to equalize pressure on your eardrums and if that doesn't happen abort the dive. The big concern in submerging the undercarriage of the truck is that water under that pressure forces its way into hubs, differentials and other parts. I knew years later that a truck I'd been assigned to drive suffered from that when we tried to manually lock and unlock the front hubs, and one side went freely and the other side wouldn't go without the persuasion of a wrench to get us the many miles home. Sounded like ball bearings at chainsaw speed, as the hub chewed up the axle end (1976 F250 in 1978, past the 50k miles trade-in).
Get breathers
Great information! I’m never going to go to this level with mine, and I kind of shake my head when I see this done for on road 4Runners. However, to each their own!
I go to the desert and mountain states to wheel on extended trips 3-4 times a year, and I wheel alone.
I need these mods and recovery gear to go remotely, where I want, come back safely, and get myself out when I get stuck 🤷
It all depends on your application…
Lol mall crawler
@@angryraylangivens1281 clearly not
Very cool big boys’ toy!!!!
Waaaaaay awesome video, something we all wanted to know
just ordered my 2023 trd off road premium with xp package . waiting. it will be my 7th 4runner
FYI, this is also a check list of what you don't want to see when you buy one used. 🤣 You want to buy the mall crawler, then offroad it.
This is a off road work horse. Toyota quality and reliability at its best 😎😎👍👍
Thanks for the 4runner content. I love my 4runner, but it needs some work. I bought a limited model, and the ground clearance with the body kit is getting in my way. It's been my daily driver for 8 years now, I wouldn't trade it for any other vehicle.
I am having one real issue with it, the head unit resets itself during trips of more than a few hours. Setting my gps, knowing I need to go 50 miles down the same road before an exit and having it reset somewhere along the road and going too far is getting a little old.
You seen the video series on guys converting a limited to a real 4runner?
@@tuckerhiggins4336 Quite a few of them. I plan to do the same. I've thought quite honestly about buying a used trd model and slapping my interior in it. But quite honestly, there isn't anything in the back country my apparently fake 4runner can't do as long as I'm willing to trash my front facia. I was smart enough to pick up a 4x4 model.
They all have the same ground clearance. Only the body kit it killing approach and departure angles. My Limited got a 2.5in front and 1.5in rear lift with 285/70R17 tires. i think its a good improvement. I couple of weeks im planning to play with another lift from Ironman. This is what I have for now -
czcams.com/video/BvV0GGCaVM4/video.html
@@tuckerhiggins4336 real 4Runner? 😄
@@BB-wj8dv change the unit, I changed mine to an Android based one, the brand is Daisata, they have review videos here, your 4Runner will feel modern again
I agree with your scares on front skid plate; the truth is you aren't 4wheeling hard enough if you don't use your skid plate
I couldn’t shake thinking about a special that I watched on the mysteries behind crater formations on Mars. It just kept bothering me and I couldn’t put it out of my mind…luckily though I own a 4runner, so I was able to go check them out for myself!! It has a setting for space travel, but you just have to get the Off Road or TRD Pro trim.
What a great TRUCK! ! !
The freedom & independence that comes with that truck! The shields are a great idea. Are there shields that are available to protect catalytic converters from being stolen?
Not that I know of. Mine are for the transmission, transfer case, gas tank, and rear diff. Up front there’s a TRD plate for the engine…
He has a pedal commander
Love those
I’ve owned 2 4 runners now second gens are a piece of crap but the 3rd gen and 4th gen rock… I have a 2002 limited sport and it rocks
Thanks to your Highlander video, I learnt that my ‘21 rav4 has remote start just be using the key fob! My wife thanks you… my gas budget will take a hit…
We have a 2019 SR5P. Just put four Goodyear Duratrac tires on it and enjoyed my otherwise stock 4runner on interesting roads in Wyoming and North Dakota. Very capable truck. Your comments about lifting and how the rest of the trucks can be affected is something I have suspected. I have no interest in changing the dynamics of the suspension and drive train so I will enjoy my stock runner anyway in offroad environments, knowing the limitations and capabilities.
Great video