1985 Ext Cab turned 4 seat truggy Build

Diesel-Runner · Mar 11, 2024

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 · Mar 11, 2024

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 · Mar 11, 2024

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 · Mar 11, 2024

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

Diesel-Runner · Mar 11, 2024

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

Diesel-Runner · Mar 11, 2024

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 · Mar 11, 2024

Moved the steering box

Diesel-Runner · Mar 11, 2024

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

Diesel-Runner · Mar 11, 2024

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

Diesel-Runner · Mar 11, 2024

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

Diesel-Runner · Mar 11, 2024

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 · Mar 11, 2024

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

Diesel-Runner · Mar 11, 2024

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

Diesel-Runner · Mar 11, 2024

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 · Mar 11, 2024

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 · Mar 11, 2024

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 · Mar 12, 2024

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

Diesel-Runner · Mar 12, 2024

aztoyman said:
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 · Mar 12, 2024

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.