Scouring uncharted territories in search of forgotten relics and immersing yourself in a unique culture is exciting because that’s what overlanding is all about – well, almost!
We may have our own interpretations of overlanding but in simplest term, it just means the art of getting lost. Don’t worry because these dudes have some treasures to spill in making your 4Runner the ultimate adventure rig.
PHIL LEE (@otzlee_4runner)
If you’re a bit of a daredevil who digs rocky terrains with steep climbs on the side, then this 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-road Premium with Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) can quickly bring out that part of you.
Its owner, Phil, shares that his favorite modification is the King Suspension because it gave him the improved riding experience, especially when off-roading and overlanding can be quite a handful.
But of course, since doing your own builds isn’t always as easy as putting Lego blocks together, this rig also has its share of grueling 4Runner mods like others that’ll test how far your wits and patience can take you, particularly when it comes to adding the 3m satin vinyl.
Believe it or not, it took Phil more than 50 hours to finish it because it was his first time doing such a thing. Luckily, his wife decided to help him. In the end, what seemed to be sacrificing a couple of date nights appeared to be worth it after all.
“Everything I have added has a greater purpose. It has been more than a hobby for me, it has helped me build great friendships, explore the unknown, and create lifelong experiences.” -Phil
Tips from an Overlander at Heart
4Runner Modifications’ Summary
Suspension, Wheels, Tires & Brakes
- Kings 2.5 Adjustable Shocks with Icon Overland Springs
- TRD Pro Wheels wrapped with Nitto Ridge Grapplers 285/70/17
- Spidertrax Wheel Spacers
- Total Chao Gusset Spindles
Armor, Recovery & Mounting Solutions
- Demello Steel Baja Bumper
- RCI Full Skids, Gas Skids, Differential Skids
- FJtoy Shock Skids
- Gobi Full Length Stealth Rack
- White Knuckle Rock Sliders
- Detours of Maine Swingout Rear Tire Carrier
Camping & Overland Equipment: Lighting & Electrical
- Ikamper Skycamp 2.0 Rocky Finish
- Solarhawk 100w Panel
- Jackery 500 Battery
- Lasfit Interior + Backup LED
- Baja Designs Ambers
- Odyssey Battery
- SwitchPros
Miscellaneous
- 3M Satin Black Vinyl Wrap
- OEM Audio+
- ARB Snorkel
- 3M Crystalline Tint
Social Media Handles & Contact
Don’t forget to tag along Otzlee’s epic explorations!
linktree: https://linktr.ee/otzlee
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/otzleeexplains
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/otzlee_4runner/
Email: Otzleeexplains@gmail.com
Clubs: https://antioffroadoffroadclub.com/
FRANCISCO MARTINEZ (@clearvisionoverland)
Gaia can be nurturing but once you accidentally incur its wrath on you, it can be one hell of a struggle to get to where you want to. That’s why, this 2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-road’s tough armor is ready for the fight.
Specifically, this 4Runner is sporting with RCI’s full skids and RSG’s sliders to make sure you can squeeze through hard-to-reach camping spots without taking a toll on your vehicle. But if you need something that can also be useful aside from the added protection, then Francisco mentions he loves the C4 Dual-spring Bumper because it lets him conveniently mount his farm jack, traction pads, and other 4×4 recovery tools as he goes.
However, the learning curve here is on the Extreme Off-road LED Lights. Francisco admits that installing them was messy because it was his first time doing it as well. Although, we believe he’ll quickly get back on track since a re-wiring and installation of the new Diode Dynamic Lights is in the works.
“My mods have been specially chosen to create the ultimate overland vehicle for me. From the James Baroud Tent to the 10k winch, I know that if I’m alone, I’m still capable of self recovery, even if it can take a while.” -Francisco
Tips from an Overlander at Heart
4Runner Modifications’ Summary
Suspension, Wheels, Tires & Brakes
- King 2.5 Shocks
- 650 lbs Front King Springs
- SPC UCA’s
- C59-701V Rear Springs
- SCS Gen 5 Wheels 17×9 – 38 Offset
- 295/70/17 Yokohama Geolandar
Armor, Recovery & Mounting Solutions
- RCI Full Skids
- RSG Sliders
- Lil B’s Front Bumper
- C4 Dual Swing Overland Rear Bumper
- 10k Smittybilt Winch
- Factor 55 Hawse Fairlead
- Factor 55 Hawse Flatlink
- MAXTRAX
- RotopaX
Camping & Overland Equipment: Lighting & Electrical
- James Baroud RTT
- Roam Awning
- Road Shower
- Rhino Rack Pioneer Platform
- Extreme LED Lights
- Switch Pros
- Drawer System with Electric Fridge
Miscellaneous
- KDSS Spacers
- KDSS ON/OFF Switch
- Midland GMRS
See the world through Clearvision Overland!
Social Media Handles & Contact
See the world through Clearvision Overland!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clearvisionoverland/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CLEARVISIONOVERLAND
ROB M. (@revereoverland)
When the rough and tumble of the outside world gets to you both literally and physically, rejuvenation is the key to keep you levelheaded. Well, the same thing goes for this 2010 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition with onboard water and shower setup.
It’s owner, Rob, takes pride in its mini bathroom which allows him to quickly freshen up after a tiring day, whether it has something to do with camping or an unexpected brawl with nature’s forces.
On the other hand, the difficult part of Rob’s 4Runner mods is the Old Man Emu Lift Kit Installation. This is because he and his friends were forced to replace certain parts like bolts and spring compressors, again and again due to being broken. The thing is, you really have to be prepared to do some replacements and drilling along the way.
“My mods let me be as free as an eagle. I go with all my heart because of them, no matter how simple or complex my destination can be.” -Rob
Tips from an Overlander at Heart
4Runner Modifications’ Summary
Suspension, Wheels, Tires & Brakes
- Old Man Emu Medium Duty Lift Kit
- 285/70/r17 BFGoodrich KO2s Tires
- Prinsu Full-length Drill Rack
Armor, Recovery & Mounting Solutions
- Shrockworks Rock Sliders
- TJM Rear Bumper
- ARB Front Bumper
Camping & Overland Equipment: Lighting & Electrical
- XL Sport Bumper Lights
- Squadron Sport Ditch Lights
- S1 Amber Dust Lights
- Auxbeam Switch Panel
- REDARC Manager30
- RedVision Screen
- Installation by Overland Power Solutions
- Tuff Stuff Alpha Rooftop Tent
- ARB2500 Awning
Miscellaneous
- Cali Raised’s Molle Panel Storage
- Smittybilt X20 Winch
- Classic A Customs 7-gallon Water Tank
Experience life’s highs and lows with Revere Overland!
Social Media Handles & Contact
Experience life’s highs and lows with Revere Overland!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RevereOverland
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/revereoverland/
Personal website: https://www.revereoverland.com
JOSEPH “JODY” CAMERON (@birddogoverland)
Getting deep into the mysteries of unexplored realms is given but see to it your 4Runner isn’t overwhelmed! Such is the case of Jody’s 2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-road Premium with the ALPHAequipt Snorkel.
Because of the snorkel, his rig is all set to brave the waters without having to worry about engine overheat. As a matter of fact, it not only makes the vehicle very useful but also adds a badass vibe to it.
In terms of mod difficulties, Jody says that what he found hard so far would be the DIY Rear Drawer System Installation because he had trouble with the side pieces that’s supposed to help the drawers fit in place. To address the issue, he needed some remeasuring for accuracy purposes and drilling for proper fitment.
“My 4Runner mods give me the functionality I need to explore areas I otherwise would never see. They let me effortlessly navigate some of the more beautiful parts of our great country.” -Jody
Tips from an Overlander at Heart
4Runner Modifications’ Summary
Suspension, Wheels, Tires & Brakes
- 3″ Dobinson MRA 3-way Adjustable Long-travel Suspension
- SCS Ray10 17×8.5 Wheels
- 285/75r17 BF Goodrich KM3 MT tires
Armor, Recovery & Mounting Solutions
- Victory 4×4 Front and Rear Bumpers
- RCI Transition, Transmission, and Fuel Tank Aluminum Skid Plates
- LFD Off-road T-case Steel Skid Plate
- Rago Rear Shock Skid Plates
Camping & Overland Equipment: Lighting & Electrical
- Gazelle T4 tent
- RockPals 300w Power Station
- Buddy Heater by Mr. Heater
Miscellaneous
- Goat Truck Armor Panels (For paint protection)
- Victory 4×4 3/4 Roof Rack
- ALPHAequipt Carbon Fiber Snorkel
Social Media Handles & Contact
Check out what the wild has to offer with Bird Dog Overland!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birddogoverland/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birddogoverland/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/BirdDogOverland
JONATHAN “JON” AYRAN (@org4runna)
If versatility is your top priority to make your 4Runner ready for anything, you’ll never go wrong with Jon’s 2016 Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition. It’s filled with gear for best of both worlds, from Toyo Open Country’s All-terrain Tires to the Baja Designs’ Lightbar and Fog Lights.
Jon also shares his love for the King Spring Travel Shocks because they made his rig easy enough to pass through washboard roads of the city. Not to mention, it made his vehicle even feel like a Cadillac soaking up the potholes.
On the contrary, the SSO SlimLine Front Bumper Installation and cutting the valence had proven to be an ordeal. This is because he did the former on his own and the bumper is heavy, while he did the latter the first time. The good thing was, his efforts have not been in vain because he carefully measured the portion of the valence that needs cutting, with a couple of farm jacks and beers along the way.
“I like how my rig is catered to my needs. Throughout my 2 years of off-roading, I’ve added equipment to make camping and off-roading a lot more convenient for me and my spouse.” -Jon
Tips from an Overlander at Heart
4Runner Modifications’ Summary
Suspension, Wheels, Tires & Brakes
- King 2.5 extended travel shocks custom tuned by Accutune Offroad
- SPC Upper Control Arms
- Work Meister S1HC in a 17×8.5 -10
- Toyo Open Country AT3 in a 305/70r17
- Front sway bar delete
Armor, Recovery & Mounting Solutions
- Southern Style Off-road SlimLine Bumper
- RCI Front Skid Plate
- RSG Metalworks Rock Sliders
- Maxtrax
- Factor55 Kinetic Rope, Soft Shackles and Hitch Receiver
Camping & Overland Equipment: Lighting & Electrical
- Gazelle T4 Overland Edition Tent
- Baja Designs 20” S8 Lightbar, S2 Ditch Lights, S1 Chase Lights, Squadron Sport Fog Lights
- Overland Vehicle Systems 180 Awning
- KICKASS Products Shower Awning
- Dirtcomplex Trail Swing with FrontRunners Drop-down Table
- Yakima 4-gallon RoadShower
Miscellaneous
- Prinsu Roof Rack
- Auxbeam 8 gang switch panel
- Alpharex Luxx Headlights
- JoesOriginalEquipment Side Panel
- 2-gallon Gasoline RotopaX
- 2 gallon Water RotopaX
- 11lb FlameKing Propane Tank
- Power tank 11lb Propane Mount
Social Media Handles & Contact
Gather your courage and explore with ORG4Runna!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/org4runna/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ORG4Runna
CONCLUSION
Doing 4Runner modifications is a gradual and careful process of building your vehicle in a way that’s most advantageous to your needs – somehow akin to overlanding where the journey is what truly counts. Besides, the more you rush, the more you’re only setting yourself to fail. Share us your other 4Runner mod experiences by commenting below.
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