4-RUNNER LIFT

[chris fields 7]

15 hours ago, Mick Bowers said:

I’ve modified my current Land Cruiser 200, and a 2014  FJ from stock to specifically wheel in AZ. 
The first thing we need is clearance . If you’re not ready to put a basic suspension lift on consider a spacer type lift kit. Pretty inexpensive and you’ll get some clearance .Next,  if you don’t have much clearance a basic set of decent rock sliders are important because you’re gonna have to put a wheel up on high spots. Running boards will only be damaged and cost you more money.
I’m speaking from experience.🥴

Third, with the exception of a bash plate in the front I would put steel shock guards in front of the rear shocks at the low point they’re not too expensive and you can do it yourself.  Check out your T case protection too. 

In regard to  tires, when you’re ready for tires  I’d recommend a (hybrid AT/MT) like Niito Ridge grapplers or Yokohama XAT’s.  If you’re going to take it Off Road very much I would buy the certificates for road hazard replacement. They run $50 or $60 each, but they are definitely worth it if you’re gonna run over a lot of rocks.  
You can contact me directly via the website or call me on 623-432-2895.
Good luck 

Mick

you mentioned a bash plate, im not familiar ,  i think im going to wait on any type of lift for now. should i get the engine ,transmission, and transfer case skid plates? i will get the rock sliders and shock protectors.

[Mick Bowers 467]

Hey Chris,

The first piece of armor under the radiator, front diff and engine on a truck with (independent front suspension) is ofter referred to as the bash plate. Usually the first place you scrape. 
If you can swing it to continued the armor all the way under the drivetrain you should. If not,  when you’re going slow you can usually stop when you hear it scrap in the front. 
Last time I checked you could get a full set of aluminum ARB for $1200+ install.  I have never added gas tank armor. Maybe I should, but I’ve never talked to anyone broke a tank open. Weight maters.  

[chris fields 7]

Thanks Mick, ill look into that stuff

[Lichen 218]

I heard my name mentioned, so, in my FJC I went with OME lift (about 2.5") so I was able to run 33" tires without any cutting. As mentioned rock sliders and good skid plates are a must.  Just make sure that you use good bolts or things will fall off.  With IFS, we can't do the difficult trails because of lack of articulation,

[chris fields 7]

Thank you for the info.  I think im just going to go with the skid plates,  rock sliders, and rear shock skids, for now, and hope for the best. I dont intend to do real crazy stuff anyway.