2014 Trail Edition "skid plates"

[Mikefj40]

I took Bunky down to Pismo for our first off-road experience. I assumed that sand is more forgiving than rock. Unfortunately the lame aluminum foil "skid plate" serves a a great sand scoop. It was packed with sand after one day. The sand managed to dislodge the wiper fluid line draining the reservoir completely. Thank God it was not a more critical fluid line.

It needs more work to be Alaska-worthy. Ain't there yet. What would you do (beyond the TRD Pro spec for 2015) to make this a more capable vehicle. I'm afraid it will never come close to the FJ40s I've owned.

Mike McGrath
'14 4Runner "Bunky"

 

[liljlandon]

Toyota lacks some serious protection for their under carriages any more. I'm a fan of Budbuilt skids, though I build my own. I have a buddy with budbuilt from front to back on his last three vehicles. He likes to buy, beat it to death, and trade it in the day the warranty is up. He beats them hardcore. Always served him good.

As for capability... I would put your 4runner up against any factory 40 series and watch it win. It may have more nannies, plastic, and less ground clearance but it is a VERY capable vehicle.

 

[Mikefj40]

I agree that the 4Runner is capable, I just want it to be more so. Toyota is going in that direction with the TRD Pro spec for 2015.

I'm looking at the ARB bumper, winch and skid plates along with either the Bilstein leveling kit (brings the front up 2.5") or even the Old Man Emu 3" kit. I think that's a good but pricey start.

Sliders are on my list so thanks for the tip on Budbuilt.

 

[SIZZLE]

In order i'd do:
1. tires
2. protection
3. suspension

If your driving all the way to alaska, i'd pop for the OME suspension. A 2.5" spacer lift will result in a brittle ride.

 

[Mikefj40]

My priorities are protection, suspension, kitchen, then wheels and tires. I'm no fan of the stock Dunlops (2 flats in 6k miles) but want to wear 'em down on my shakedown cruises before heading north.

And yeah, OME is the way to go. I was tempted to copy the TRD Pro spec with the Bilsteins up front but I'm afraid that won't do the job. Especially when the front is weighed down with an Arb bumper and winch.