Awesome video, thanks so much for the great content. I'm a brand new 4Runner owner ('22 Trail Edition... ridiculous name for the package considering how barren it comes lol) and have some questions. Do some of these mods on an SR5 slightly make up for the lack of crawl, rear-locker, etc.? I do wish the Trail had those features, but as I'll be using it for a daily 90% of the time, I'm ok with it as-is. Also, any idea what the most fuel-efficient all-terrains might be? I know KO2's are very popular, just curious if I kept it with the stock rim size if it'd be any more fuel efficient- also, is it safe to run all-terrains all year? And does upgrading suspension also affect MPG? Thanks, and apologies for the silly questions!
A-Trac is an awesome system that will seriously make your 4Runner just about as capable as any crawl control or rear locker. It basically acts like a locker on the front and rear by using your brakes to transfer power to tires with traction. Suspension will only have a negligible effect on MPG - tires are where you'll see the biggest hit. If you're worried about gas mileage I'd stick with stock size. The goodyear ultraterrains (from Discount Tire) are a great budget option and offer excellent traction. I run my A/T's year round and wouldn't waste pulling them in the summer. Good luck with your new 4Runner!
On the edge of buying the SR5 and I’m happy to see what you did to yours, but going back with all you added up would you not be better off getting a TRD ?
I'd have to say no. If you get a TRD, you're paying a higher car payment for cosmetic and minor upgrades. Starting with a SR5, you can decide what suspension and how high you want to go. You can go with Bilstein for $1500 or up to ICON for $5000-6000. You can also get different and better wheels for less as well. Not to mention rock sliders or side steps. So many more options, often for less money than buying a TRD
SR5 are more than adequate as long you make the right mods. The TRD does offer other off road tools, however on its own the 4x4 SR5 can handle most off road trails just fine. The freedom and creativity to build your own off road vehicle is something to consider also.
Great video! Question: I’m not an expert when it comes to lifting a 4runner. When you had your lifter and new tire installed, did they have to trim the car body? If so, is that going to cause any problems in the immediate time or in the future (stability, safety, rust, …etc)?
