Author Topic: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0  (Read 114795 times)

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swilson

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Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« on: May 30, 2016, 10:56:03 PM »
I'm finally going to get the build thread started for my next project.  About 20 years ago I had a 1988 4Runner SR5 V6 that had a well publicized build.  At the time I was writing for Off-Road.com and then 4x4Wire.com.  I ended up selling it when I got married and bought my first house.  Then over a 10yr period I built a beautiful 1966 FJ40.      http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/toyota-land-cruiser/476229-1966-fj40-build-up.html I wheeled that for 5 years and now I'm ready to move onto my next project.  Well, funny how history repeats itself... in March I picked up another 1988 4Runner SR5 V6. 

I picked it up for $2000, clean title, overall great condition for a 28 yr old Toyota.  Its got a couple dents, needs a paint job, someone swapped out the SR5 seats for some base model seats... but overall a great place to start.  The 3VZE needed head gaskets, which is why I picked it up so cheap.  Initially I planned to do the HGs and use this as a commuter until I was ready to start the build, but I've got no love left for the 3VZE and decided its got to go.  This one also had the auto tranny, so I got to thinking, why not ditch the whole drivetrain and start over. 



« Last Edit: May 27, 2019, 11:20:02 PM by swilson »
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Re: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« Reply #1 on: May 30, 2016, 11:25:38 PM »
I read about the 3RZ swap and decided that's the route I'm going.  Its got basically the same HP/torque as the V6 I'm taking out, but is lighter and revs better... and so much more reliable.  I've also never owned a 4cyl Toyota, so that'll be different for me.  After going a bit over the top on my last build, I'm going to try to keep my spending a little more under control for this build.  Over the last 2 months I've been amassing parts for this build and I've gotten lots of good parts, some even brand new, off other builds that are getting parted out.

My first week scouring craigslist I found a recently rebuilt Marlin Crawler W56B locally.  My 2nd week I scored a Marlin Crawler dual case setup, also off CL.  I ended up finding my 3RZ through Ebay.  I was watching an auction for a 3RZ with 2wd auto tranny from a 2000 4Runner with front end damage and only 119k miles.  The item details said he was willing to separate, so just before the auction ended I contacted him about the engine.  After some negotiating, I got the engine, harness, all emissions I'll need to pass the CA referee (air box, evap, cats, O2 sensors, etc) for $1000.  It sucked that engine was in LA... but part of the deal what that I got to inspect the still running motor before pulling it... and that I would pull it myself.  That was perfect since after hearing it and doing a compression test I knew I was buying a solid motor & since my good friend Phil Johnson and I pulled it, I knew exactly what I was getting and that the harness hadn't been cut, except for where we cut it.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

jimbo74

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Re: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« Reply #2 on: May 31, 2016, 12:15:59 AM »
so you made a road trip to LA to get it?

wait. L.A. or LA?
:usa:

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Re: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« Reply #3 on: May 31, 2016, 06:03:47 AM »
If it is anything like your last two builds, it will be awesome!! Are you keeping the FJ-40?
David & Theresa Fritzsche, 1990 Ex-Cab with a few mods!!!!!!!!! Roseville, CA Sobriety =Serenity

swilson [OP]

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Re: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« Reply #4 on: May 31, 2016, 09:24:32 AM »
If it is anything like your last two builds, it will be awesome!! Are you keeping the FJ-40?

Thanks Dave.  No, selling the FJ40.  After making a few suspension changes for the new owner it'll be on a transport to Florida and will probably never see the Rubicon again.

so you made a road trip to LA to get it?

wait. L.A. or LA?

Los Angeles.  Don't think LA is going to have the CA model engine I needed to pass the smog referee!  I'm not looking forward to that, but seeing as so many guys here have gotten passed it, I'm sure it'll be alright.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Re: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« Reply #5 on: May 31, 2016, 04:06:54 PM »
Sold the 3.0L with bad HGs for $100, plus the buyer had to help me pull it. 

Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Re: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« Reply #6 on: May 31, 2016, 04:13:06 PM »
Started freshening up the 3RZ.  Went to do the valve adjustment and to my surprise, they were all in spec... yippy!  Guess I should have checked them before I bought the valve adjustment SST.  Oh well, at least I'll be prepared when they finally do need adjustment.  Freshened the block up with some new paint and then dove in on the necessary changes.

I read lots and lots about the T100 oil pan swap, but don't recall coming across a good photo of the new dip stick.  So here you go.  Its on the driver's side of the block.  Just knock out the aluminum plug and hammer the new dip stick tube into place.  A quick drill and tap job on my engine mount and I was able to bolt it into something solid for support.
« Last Edit: May 31, 2016, 04:44:21 PM by swilson »
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Re: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« Reply #7 on: May 31, 2016, 06:52:53 PM »
I also read a lot of threads that said things like "I need to do something about the old hole left over by the original oil dip stick tube"  but didn't see any solutions other than  plugging it with RTV.  I think I found a nice solution.  Using ViceGrips I removed the steel seat that the old dip stick tube went into.  Its just pressed into place, so you'll get it out with some brute force.

Then I used a M10x1.25 tap and threaded the hole that was left over in the aluminum cover.  Dropped in a left over Toyota M10 bolt I had laying around along with some thread sealant and PROBLEM SOLVED. 
« Last Edit: May 31, 2016, 09:54:32 PM by swilson »
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

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Re: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« Reply #8 on: May 31, 2016, 07:33:00 PM »
Very clean start.  :thumbs:

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Re: Scott Wilson's 1988 4Runner Build, Version 2.0
« Reply #9 on: May 31, 2016, 07:51:55 PM »
I also read a lot of threads that said things like "I need to do something about the old hole left over by the original oil dip stick tube"  but didn't see any solutions other than  plugging it with RTV.  I think I found a nice solution.  Using ViceGrips I removed the steel seat that the old dip stick tube went into.  Its just pressed into place, so you'll get it out with some brute force.

Then I used a M10x1.25 tap and threaded hole that was left over in the aluminum cover.  Dropped in a left over Toyota M10 bolt I had laying around along with some thread sealant and FIXED. 

You could add a ground strap there so it looks like the bolt does something.........

 :think:
Ed
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22RE  W56B
31x10.50R15

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Hope you got your price for the 40, that was a very solid rig!
"Project Land Cruzah" In Land Cruiser Section
71 FJ40 327/465/ 4.7 Mini T/c, Trussed, Armored Mini Axles w/ High Cross Over, Aussie Lockers & 30 spline Longs.  p/s 35's, SOA, , .  86 Burb D-60 14 bolt 350/400/205 37's.  02 F350 Tow Barge, Toyo 38's, Banks 5" Wicked wheel turbo, Edge Juice w/ Attitude, Blah Blah Blah

swilson [OP]

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Hope you got your price for the 40, that was a very solid rig!

I'm satisfied with the sale price.  Got 90% of what I put into it... as far as selling project vehicles go, I think that is usually not the case.

You could add a ground strap there so it looks like the bolt does something.........

I know it looks easily accessible in my photos, but that's only because I pulled the engine belts off to give me room to work.  You wouldn't want to have anything attached to that bolt.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Since my donor vehicle was an automatic, I sourced my flywheel and clutch from Marlin Crawler.

I replaced the crank seal and rear main seal while the engine was out.  This method works so well for pulling seals and makes sure you don't  accidentally scratch the sealing surface.  Drill a 1/8" hole in the seal, careful not to go too deep.  Carefully screw in a sheetmetal screw, again careful not to go too deep.  Then use a Superbar or other pry tool to pop the seal out.

Traded some parts to get a W59 bell housing for my W56 transmission.  Bolted it up and realized I still didn't have the clutch inspection plate.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Read about the Marlin bolt mod for the stock engine mounts here...
Motor mount tech  Still need to add a poly bushing to mine.  I learned one thing about doing these through... don't drill all the way through from one side.  You'll end up coming through the other side off-center, and its a pain to fix.  Instead grind off the original threaded stud so you can drill half way through from each side.  Also learned some hardware stores have larger grade-8 washers than others... the larger ones won't work because they won't fit in the existing hole on the frame.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Tore into the crawl box and converted it from forward shift to top shift, but forgot to take photos of that.

Tore into the 23 spline case and removed the interlock pin.  Again, no photos.  Plan to use a set of Dave's Triple Shifters so I can keep my center console unmolested along with the rear heater.  Can't seem to get a set though... been on the list for 2 months.  Still waiting.  Anyone here using them?  How long does it take to get a set?

This week I started tearing down the interior so I can get to the guts.  Cleaned up a set of used pedals from a 5spd.  Next I'll get the pedals mounted up and get some holes drilled through the firewall for the clutch slave.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Boy this thing is tiny, ha ha.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

84 yota dude

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You sold the 40??! I loved that thing. Saw it on google images one time and had to track down the build thread for it. You did a great job! Nice work on this 4runner too!

emsvitil

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You could always make your own triple shifters.........
Ed
SoCal
86 SR5 XtraCab
22RE  W56B
31x10.50R15

swilson [OP]

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You sold the 40??! I loved that thing. Saw it on google images one time and had to track down the build thread for it. You did a great job! Nice work on this 4runner too!

Thanks!

You could always make your own triple shifters.........

I'm no machinist & no need to reinvent the wheel... Just hoping they'll be able to sell me a wheel eventually  :D
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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I've never had engine hoist envy before... holy cow!
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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I finally got some time in the garage and made some progress. I got the pedals installed and drilled the firewall for the clutch master cylinder.  The brakes were pathetic when I drove it before pulling the motor, so I went ahead and put in a new brake master cylinder and booster.

I had read that the 3RZ really didn't jive with IFS, but I was going to try to make it work. My plan was to do the engine swap now and just drive it around for the summer before starting in on the solid axle swap.  My initial plan was to use a 2" body lift and raise the drivetrain to clear the IFS... well, I'm hear to tell you it doesn't work.  Without hacking up the oil pan, its just not going to clear.

« Last Edit: Jun 13, 2016, 08:53:11 AM by swilson »
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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My backup plan was to just pull the front diff and CV axles and use it as a 2wd for the summer.   So out came the diff.  That got the engine low enough for me to bolt up the tranny and dual cases.  Then I found my FROR crossmember is not clearing the  back edge of the torsion bar mounts for the IFS.  At this point I feel like this is getting silly, fighting the IFS the whole way through.

So I talked it over with the boss tonight and got approval to greatly accelerate my build.  The IFS is on its way out!  I won't get to drive it this summer, but this should put me on track to be back on the Rubicon next Summer.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Got some 900 lb casters from TSC and built a rolling jackstand today.  Hopefully next weekend the IFS meets my plasma cutter.   :D
« Last Edit: Jun 15, 2016, 09:46:28 PM by swilson »
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Got a couple hours in the garage today, so I got to cutting!  No mo IFS. 

I think that engine will fit now.   :thumbs:
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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Got the torsion bar mounts removed today.  I'll be happy when I'm done laying under the truck grinding!!!  The orange line was a reference so I can get the parking brake cable mount back near its original position.  I'll probably wait to put the mount in place until the FROR crossmember is in place.

Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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I've stopped grinding the IFS mounts...  I'm thinking about doing some more cutting instead...  and then some welding. 
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

swilson [OP]

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I was pretty frugal getting my drivetrain swap going...  not so much with the solid axle swap. This week I ordered a Diamond axle, 4WU 3 link, FROR high steer with keyed knuckles, 300M birfs & shafts.

The axle will be 64" wms using IFS wheel hubs, so I can run Tundra rotors/calipers. 

I'll be trying to keep the frame height low.  I was looking through some builds where they had to do deep notches thru the frame to keep things low.  I got to thinking about plating the frame, but didn't like the idea of strengthening a frame that is already so low... Why not just re arch the frame before going forward.

I'm thinking I'll arch it about 1" higher than a pre-1986 frame... Something like the green area in the above pic. I may still need to notch the frame to keep the ride height low, but they should be much less severe.  I'll do this soon, before the motor mounts.

Couldn't find any builds done like this.  If you know of any, let me know, I want to see how its going to work out.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

84 yota dude

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swilson [OP]

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Like this?
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/88-4-runner-build.214333/page-2

Nice!  Thanks for the link.  That's definitely the idea, but instead of being flat with the front frame height, I want to make mine curve up slightly.  I want to keep the front end nice and short, so I'll keep frame stock in the front and add a FROR frame brace to add in some strength.

Oh... also ordered ORI struts this week.

I'm hoping I can get this frame mod done and get the drivetrain mounted before all these new goodies start getting delivered... but we'll see.  It's been way too hot here lately to get much done and we've got some summer camping trips right around the corner.
Scott Wilson - TLCA #5261
1966 FJ40 [sold] - Click for Build thread
1988 3RZ 4Runner - Click for Build thread
1964 FJ40 TBD

84 yota dude

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No worries!

Hmm kinda makes sense with what you're saying but want see what you have in mind.

 
 
 
 
 

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