1985 Ext Cab turned 4 seat truggy Build

[Diesel-Runner]

I bought this a few years ago which was built by another friend of mine who unfortunately passed away unexpectedly. Since owning it I have done a few things and will attempt to document those things in this build thread. As bought specs are:
1985 Toyota extended cab pickup 4x4
GM 4.3 vortec engine, TH350, Marlin doubler, 4.88s, Detroit's f&R, Longfields, hi steer with hydro assist, 37s TSLs.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

One of the first mods I did was to make getting in and out a bit easier and better front seat for me and the wife. Also did a quick camo stripe paint job just for fun.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Wheeled that setup for a while but also having an 80 series LC I got the itch to put some coils under it for more articulation and better ride.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Picked up a trailgear 3-link kit on black friday last year so started in on that.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Cut spring hanger, prepped frame, and welded up the links.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Welded up the rear frame mounts (at first everything was tacked but i didn't grab a picture then) played with panhard mount and steering geometry. Needed to move the steering box as I also was moving the whole front axle forward about 8 inches.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Moved the steering box

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Narrowed the panhard mount to allow more steering clearance at full stuff.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Had to turn down the heim spacers to match the thinner mount

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Final welded up the diff housing and installed. Checked with coilovers installed.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Lengthen the steering shaft. adjusted the hydro assist mount. Added tube to reinforce the shock mounts. Tied in the tube a cut for the steering box. Added bump stops.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Final assembled the front axle with new r&p and rebuilt the birfs.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Sitting on its own weight for the first time. Designed and 3d printed some remote spacers.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

From the get go I also wanted a rear radiator. Main reason was to get that huge heat source behind me in the summertime.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Plumbing a rear radiator is a pain, but I'm happy with how it turned out. I'm also using a Derale PWM fan controller.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

I left out about 100 little things and that was about 4 months worth of work after my normal day job. Happy so far with the shakedown around my property but I'm taking it to Coalmont OHV park tomorrow for its first real outing. I will report back how it did and if I had any issues.

 

[aztoyman]

Man, you kicked azz getting it done. Looks like a fun ride. I'm looking forward to your trail report.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Man, you kicked azz getting it done. Looks like a fun ride. I'm looking forward to your trail report.

Thanks, Ive been following your build and it helped me a lot.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

First outing was an outstanding success. Rode all day on mostly moderate trails with zero issues. It's a whole new animal. No longer a harsh ride and the flex is amazing. Can't wait to try some black trails. Plan on doing a thorough inspection of everything tomorrow.

 

[Diesel-Runner]

Smiles all around.