87 4Runner "new" build Project BioHazard

[GaJoker]

I thought I'd share my build with everyone this time around.  I realize that there are many build threads on here and by no means do I think mine will be special in any way but I do believe it will be fun and informative and I look forward to everyone's comments, criticisms and compliments during the build.  So let the good times roll.

[GaJoker]

Just to give some background.  I'm from White, Ga and have the normal life of wife and kids.  I'm an EMT and currently in paramedic school, don't why I started a build now since I'm poor, sleep deprived and busier than a one legged man in an butt kicking contest.

[GaJoker]

Started with this 1987 4runner, bought it for $250 for various parts. It sat for about 3 years and now I've decided to build it.

[GaJoker]

Started by completely stripping it out and selling what ever I could to generate build revenue.  With the help of cheap labor we began the tedious task of cutting and grinding.

[GaJoker]

Not sure why Ive already lost a turtle point somewhere?? Maybe I'll find it 

[GaJoker]

Time to move to new state of the art facility, ie my driveway.

[GaJoker]

In an effort to get it mobile I temporarily installed my axles to facilitate movement in and out of the garage.  The front is a full width D60 4.56 (currently open diff) and the rear is a Corp 14 bolt, disc brake conversion with matching 4.56 and Detroit locker. 

[GaJoker]

Future plans for the build will include 4 link rear suspension and 3 link front suspension before this rig ever moves under it's own power.

[GaJoker]

Well this brings me up to date. My plans are to cut the body behind the doors (denoted by blue tape line) and behind prepping the rear frame.  Engine choice at this time is still in the works, definitely a V8 and propane powered. Currently sitting on 38.5x11x16 Boggers and steelies, but that will change too. Stay tuned.

[pumkin toy]

so the body is getting cut off at the tape so the rear can be tubed out?  sounds like a cool build, will be a little different then most on here

[GaJoker]

Thanks pumkin, that was my intention, something different.  I plan to enclose the back of the cab with a removable glass for winter weather.  Pumkin I've been following your exo build and getting some ideas. Nice work.

[GaJoker]

Alright the cut has been made. I have extended the back of the cab 9" behind the doors to allow for some storage behind the seats once the rear cab enclosure has been fabricated.

[GaJoker]

Different angle. Still rough as a cob but hopefully will soon begin to take some shape.

[GaJoker]

My next undertaking will be the rear suspension and tubing the back half.  I'm debating on leaving the frame and building onto it or cutting it flush with the back of the cab and tubing the entire rear.  Any thoughts folks?  

[pumkin toy]

I vote cut it off!  looks like you already ditched the stock tank and you are planning on doing a 4 link rear so there really is no reason to keep the stock frame. Stock frames are ugly, generally rusty and they impose annoying space limitations when building custom link suspension. Coming from someone who has already done all of the same work you are doing to the back of a 1st gen 4runner... I highly recommend cutting the stock frame off!

[GaJoker]

Yep the gas tank is gone, fuel lines nixed. Hello propane.

[StrangeR4WD]

Great truck build! That's a good choice of Tons axles you have there. Any SBC or BBC will do fine with propane. Imo Go with 5.3l ls engines, its strong, cheaper nowadays, and plenty out there for parts.

[GaJoker]

I am going to look at an engine tomorrow,  found a 462 cid BBC that's currently nestled in a mud truck. Dynoed 515 hp and 724 ft lbs torque.  Offered a trade for a set of toyota axles for the engine.  Hope to score.

[88_YotaCrawler_88]

Wow sweet rig, keep up the good work.

[GaJoker]

Sorry for the brief intermission folks. I'm in paramedic school and its occupying a great deal of time. I was able to acquire the 462 Chevrolet big block that I was looking into. Next plan is to save up for the Got Propane conversion kit and get this project back on track.  Thanks for those you that have been following the progress.

[71 Redwood]

  gotta love projects

[71 Redwood]

gotta love projects

keep up the good work

[swilson]

Starting from scratch!  I like it!