2005 4th Gen 4Runner

[ollovertheplace]

Looking for some input, but first the backstory...
My first gen tundra was totaled this winter and I just purchased a 2005 4runner. My tundra had a canopy, 33” KO2s, rock sliders, and an ARB locking rear differential and high output air compressor to inflate/deflate the tires. With the 3” lift it had, it was an extremely capable truck.

So now I have a 4th gen 4Runner with the V6. It’s got 255k on the odometer, had oil changed every 5000 miles, and has new geolander tires in the stock size. Besides the rancho quicklift, it’s completely stock.

So, the QUESTION I’m building up to is what does everyone recommend replacing/adding/upgrading first? Part of me says get a rear swing bumper first so I will have readymade space for when I buy new tires when the current ones are worn as well as a place for me to store my pre-existing traction boards, jerrycan, and jack.

So for best enjoyment with a modest budget of $1500, what do you all recommend?

 

[M Rose]

We have a 2004 4Runner Sport that is bone stock minus the tires. First upgrade is going to be bumpers and lift at the same time. Second upgrade is going to be coms or a roof rack...

 

[4runnerteq]

Nothing. Unless something is worn out. $1500 still buys quite a bit of fuel. Make sure the maintenance is 100% on it and upgrade as things go bad, wear out, or just dont perform the way you would like them to. A CB is nice to have if you're with a group, but hand helds work just as well. Rear drawers and high dollar storage boxes are nice, but a walmart plastic tote does the same thing. If you want to "upgrade" fine, but certainly dont think you have to.

 

[Shakes355]

As with all things, it depends on where and how you travel. Protection is nice (sliders, bumpers, armor, ect). But in my experience, the best all around upgrade to get started is suspension. Lift it if you're going to lift it, but a shock upgrade in general goes a long way towards living with the rig. Ranchos are not going to make you happy.