GX470 Frame Swap Project

[andyGX470]

Hi all,

I've been looking for information about swapping a new frame onto my 2006 GX470. I'm from the midwest and although the body is mint the frame is completely shot. There appears to be a few posts here and there about it but nothing conclusive. Wanted to create this thread to document the process for others who might want to do this in the future. Also, if anyone has tips/tricks to suggest as I go through the process that would be appreciated.

Like with many of these GX470s the AC condensation drip line caused the passenger side frame to completely rust out:

Found this frame on ebay and its currently being shipped here.

Yesterday I started by removing all 8 body mounts bolts, both front and rear bumpers, and the rear spare tire. Will post more pictures soon.

 

[andyGX470]

Youtube Resources:



(Not a 4th gen / 120 frame but ideas)


How to - 3rd gen 4Runner frame swap. Pt 1, body removal - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OuoJitL7M8&t=459s

 

[iwashmycar]

Maybe more inspirational than helpful, but I really enjoyed this video of a 4Runner frame swap.

 

[andyGX470]

The location of each body mount (I circled them in red):
1. Just behind the front bumper
2. Under the drivers/passenger seat floormats
3. Just behind the rear seats
4. Inside the trunk pillar covers.

Front body mounts:

Rear driver side mount. Just flip the seat forward, remove the black trim step (2 10m bolts) and pull the carpet back.

Rear mounts are behind the pillars near the tail lights. I used a 1/2 breaker bar with a long socket to hold the bolt on the inside and then an impact driver to unscrew each bolt from the bottom. Even though everything was rusted it came off pretty easy.

Another helpful tip that i've used in many projects is an organized bolt system. This helps to prevent the dreaded 10 bolts left over feeling at the end of the project.

 

[Rednexus]

Looking forward to seeing the progress on this! Luckily my frame just had some surface rust, but it's certainly tempting to "frame off" one of these and end up with a mint-condition underside.

Any plans to blast/coat/rustproof the new frame and other components before it goes back together?

 

[andyGX470]

Looking forward to seeing the progress on this! Luckily my frame just had some surface rust, but it's certainly tempting to "frame off" one of these and end up with a mint-condition underside.

Any plans to blast/coat/rustproof the new frame and other components before it goes back together?

Definitely! Looking into how much sand blasting would cost. Probably prime/paint myself.

 

[Rednexus]

Definitely! Looking into how much sand blasting would cost. Probably prime/paint myself.

It would probably be several hundred dollars around here, but things are cheap. I'd suggest coating the inside of the frame too so that it does not rust out again .

 

[andyGX470]

Status Update - "Houston we have lift off" !

Also, I've received the new frame and its in absolutely mint condition. I also started making videos to keep track of the status of the project. See link below:



Progress made:

• Drive shaft removed
• Fuel Tank Cover removed
• Front break lines removed
• Radiator detached
• Rear driver side connectors removed
• Spare tire removed
• Fuel Tank power supply removed
• Glove Box removed
• Passenger Side computer wiring removed

Still remaining:

• AC lines
• Oil Cooler lines
• Driver side computer wiring? (not sure tbd)

Most of the connections between the body and frame have been removed. As listed above, I still need to figure out how to remove the AC refrigerant lines (maybe i'll just pop them off then recharge the system later?) not the most environmentally friendly thing to do perhaps but not sure i'll have a choice.

I've now started to think about everything I want to replace while I have access to the engine/trans. Here is my list so far, please offer suggestions on anything I've not thought about!

Parts to install:

1. Water Pump + Inlet Gasket
2. Timing Belt and Component Kit (AISIN)
3. Power Steering Pump
4. Rack and Pinion
5. Power steering pump seal kit
6. Engine Mounts
7. Trans Mounts
8. Sway Bar End Links
9. Break line kit (full)
10. Rear Exhaust
11. Exhaust manifold gaskets (sounded like it was leaking prior to the project)
12. New Bushings for the body mounts. Need to find a solid source for these.
13. Strap for fuel tank
14. Bolts for fuel tank cover
15. Cabin air filter
16. Front main seal (Crankshaft Front Main Oil Pump Seal) - noticed it is leaking while I was under there
17. Oil pan seal
18. Headers (Long Tube Headers)