4th Gen 4runner rear suspension strength considerations

[Lil'John]

I found this link that went quickly to front end:

4th Gen 4runner strength considerations

Decided to start doing something somewhat productive with my 4runner. It's completely stock, and is in desperate need for some new struts/shocks. If I'm going to do that, then I'm going to at least put fun ones on there. I'm looking at possibly going with a long travel setup, being it's a DD...

irate4x4.com

One good point in there was reinforcing the front diff carrier mounts... already on my list behind a few other maint/upgrades.

My interest is what stronger rear links are available. My google foo sucks and hasn't yielded shit for upper, lower, or trackbars that are stronger than stock but replace the stock ones.

I did find lower link mount reinforcements/skid plate as well as lower link reinforcement:

Rear Lower Link Reinforcement / Skid Plate Kit - Coastal Offroad

The rear lower suspension links and mounts are some of the most vulnerable and easily damaged parts underneath your Toyota/Lexus SUV. Especially when trying to "bump up" challenging obstacles, you will inevitably smash these components against rocks and stumps on the trail. This is due to how...

www.coastaloffroad.com

My rig is a stock GX470(ie V8 4th gen 4runner) So in general, what works for 4runner will fit fine for me.

What rear links do you know of?

I could also add in rear axle beef question here. I keep hearing different opinions on the rear diff/axle. It not high on my replace list due to auto plus AWD lessening the load up on it... but I've heard stories of people looking at the rear diff and it failing

 

[rockota]

Stock gx…

Assume it had miles on it…

But why the worry about links if its stock?

 

[Lil'John]

Stock gx…

Assume it had miles on it…

But why the worry about links if its stock?

It just hit 200k miles.

My school of thought is if I am replacing something and there is an upgrade in reach, go the upgrade path.

As noted, I am buying new links 100%. Whether they are stock or upgrade is how different the pricing is. I am not going to sit and fuck around with NY salted to hell links that are currently on it.

 

[Dirtyjed]

I thought the GX was more related to a Land Cruiser than a 4runner?
Or is that just the drivetrain

 

[tsomctl]

I thought the GX was more related to a Land Cruiser than a 4runner?
Or is that just the drivetrain

GX is a 4Runner with different body. They both share the same V8 as the Land Cruiser, but that's about it. In foreign markets, the GX is sold as a Land Cruiser Prado, but it's mechanically a 4Runner.

 

[Aisin]

Pointless. You’ll just end up ripping the brackets off the rear axle.

 

[thezentree]

If it's a stock truck and is going to stay stock, just stick to OEM parts. Aftermarket links won't get you any real benefit other than a lighter wallet.

 

[Dirtyjed]

GX is a 4Runner with different body. They both share the same V8 as the Land Cruiser, but that's about it. In foreign markets, the GX is sold as a Land Cruiser Prado, but it's mechanically a 4Runner.

Thought the GX had a center lock like a LC?

 

[tsomctl]

Thought the GX had a center lock like a LC?

Yes. And so does the 4Runner. But the 4Runner/GX transfer case is weaker than LC.

 

[Dirtyjed]

Ahhhh
The 4runner peaked in 85 imo.

 

[Lil'John]

Pointless. You’ll just end up ripping the brackets off the rear axle.

If those need to get upgraded at a later time, I can do that also.

If it's a stock truck and is going to stay stock, just stick to OEM parts. Aftermarket links won't get you any real benefit other than a lighter wallet.

I am looking to go with poly or similar to tighten up the suspension further. But I'll say it one more time since it seems like it got missed in previous posts:

As noted, I am buying new links 100%. Whether they are stock or upgrade is how different the pricing is. I am not going to sit and fuck around with NY salted to hell links that are currently on it.

So whether I do heavy duty links or not, this thread is about what heavy duty links are available not whether it is worth my money to upgrade the links in my rig.

So back onto the topic of this thread:
What heavy duty links are available to the 4th gen 4runner(GX470)?

 

[Dirtyjed]

Looks like Metalcloak makes them.
I've been happy with the control arms I have for my 21 Bronco that I got from them.

Adjustable Control Arm & Track Bar Kit | Toyota FJ Cruiser, 4Runner | Lexus GX460, 470

The Toyota Rear Control Arm Kit has just what you need to add more adjust-ability and strength to get maximum flex for your lifted Toyota Truck. Features Include: Fits a FJ Cruiser, 4Runner, GX460 470 Adjustable Duroflex Upper Rear Control Arms Adjustable Duroflex Lower Rear Control Arms Rear...

metalcloak.com

 

[thezentree]

If those need to get upgraded at a later time, I can do that also.


I am looking to go with poly or similar to tighten up the suspension further. But I'll say it one more time since it seems like it got missed in previous posts:

So whether I do heavy duty links or not, this thread is about what heavy duty links are available not whether it is worth my money to upgrade the links in my rig.

So back onto the topic of this thread:
What heavy duty links are available to the 4th gen 4runner(GX470)?

I still think you’re adding complexity and cost without any real benefit, but I have a set of MetalTech uppers on my 3rd gen and am happy with them. I’ve had to rebuild the Johnny joints a couple of times and the bushings are barely too wide for the axle mounts but they’ve got probably 90k miles on them. I added them because I was chasing driveline vibrations and wanted to get the pinion angle dialed. I’m not sure they helped but they’re paid for and installed so here we are.

Suspension - Individual Components & Accessories - Links - Metal Tech 4x4

metaltech4x4.com

 

[vegask]

I used to make/sell rear lowers for the 4th gen 4runner/FJC/GX(120 platform). I'd go with these or the ones ICON sells. Stock lowers are thinner than .095 wall and will bend the first time you get hung up on them.

4Runner Lower Control Arm Links (4th Gen, Rear)

Our 4Runner lower links for '03-'09 are built for massive abuse! Using a precision machine, rest assured no error of alignment or welds distort threats.

frontrangeoffroadfab.com

If you lift the rear any amount over 1.5", then look up Eimkeith and get their panhard relocation bracket. It makes a huge difference in ride quality.

Get your passenger diff mount bracket plated above everything else. You'll see old posts "kurtfab diff bracket" describing it around the internet, that was me before I had a kid. When that bracket fails, you are not getting home.

Also, who ever said the 4runner peaked at 85.... that stung.