Best Upgrades for your 4runner: Building the Ultimate Daily driven Off-Road Rig
Are you ready to elevate your Toyota 4Runner to its full potential? This article details a comprehensive transformation of a 2016 Toyota 4Runner Limited, showcasing an array of premium modifications that enhance both on-road comfort and off-road capability. Let’s delve into the specifics of this technical upgrade.
From Stock to Spectacular
The stock capabilities of this 4Runner had reached their limit for the owner, who required enhanced traction, articulation, and durability to tackle demanding trails. While some vehicles remain confined to cosmetic upgrades, this build focuses on delivering superior performance for real-world off-road applications.
Suspension Upgrade: Bilstein to the Rescue
Bilstein’s reputation in suspension technology is well-established, catering to everything from daily drivers to high-performance off-road vehicles. For this build, we integrated advanced bolt-on solutions inspired by trophy truck technology, offering significant improvements in both performance and versatility.
Front Suspension: Bilstein 8112 Zone Control
The Bilstein 8112 Zone Control shocks provide an optimal balance between road handling and trail resilience making it one of the best upgrades for your 4runner;
- Firm damping for superior handling on paved roads.
- Adaptive technology to absorb substantial impacts during off-road excursions.
- Position sensitive damping with 3 compression zones and 2 rebound zones, controlled by 3 independent pistons.
- 60mm remote reservoir for increased oil capacity, reduced cavitation and increased cooling
- Adjustable threaded spring seat allows for fine-tuned ride height. Adjustable range 6-2.5in
- Fully serviceable and rebuildable suspension
These height-adjustable shocks support lifts ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches. To complement the 3-inch lift, we incorporated Bilstein’s chromoly tubular upper control arms. These control arms, equipped with polyurethane bushings, they deliver extended range of motion and enhanced durability, even under extreme conditions.
Rear Suspension: Bilstein 8100 and Upgraded Springs
The rear suspension setup includes Bilstein 8100 shocks with external reservoirs for efficient cooling and consistent performance. The adjustable rebound and compression settings allow precise tuning for varying loads and terrains.
To accommodate a 3-inch lift, we paired Bilstein’s 8100 shocks with B12 springs, rated for 400 pounds, with spacers. This combination ensures a balanced stance and improved trail performance while handling moderate payloads.
Sway Bars and Bushings: Super Pro
To strike a balance between street performance and off-road flexibility, we installed Super Pro’s adjustable rear sway bar and end links. The three adjustable positions enable customization of stiffness, and the sway bar can be disconnected on trails to maximize articulation.
Super Pro’s urethane bushings provide superior durability and articulation compared to OEM rubber bushings. These enhancements reduce deflection, improve handling, and increase component lifespan.
Additional Modifications for Optimal Performance
Front Driveline Adjustments
To maintain proper suspension and driveline geometry after the lift, we installed Super Pro lower control arm bushings, a front differential spacer, and a sway bar spacer kit. These upgrades minimize component stress and enhance overall reliability making them the best upgrades for your 4runner.
Snorkel and Exhaust
The vehicle was already equipped with an Airraid snorkel paired with a TRD intake for optimized airflow. To complement this setup, we added an MBRP 304 stainless steel exhaust system. Renowned for its durability and performance, this exhaust system offers enhanced sound quality and efficiency, ensuring peak performance in rugged environments.
Fire Safety: Element E50 Fire Extinguisher
Safety is paramount in any off-road build. The Element E50 fire extinguisher is compact, easy to mount, and provides 50 seconds of suppression. Its non-corrosive formula ensures it won’t damage the vehicle’s surfaces. Element’s discharge gas is totally clean and will not leave any residue. During discharge a chemical reaction does take place which occasionally expels a trace amount of soot from the casing. Even in the most extreme instance, the net total of discharge is so minuscule compared to a traditional extinguisher that it is effectively considered to be non-existent. Beyond the clean nature of the discharge Element is non-corrosive, non-toxic, and environmentally safe.
Sprint Booster
For improved throttle response, we included a Sprint Booster. This device allows adjustable throttle sensitivity, enhancing driver control for both street and trail applications. Additionally, its anti-theft and valet modes provide added security and functionality. Throttle controllers are widely used off-road in order to fine tune throttle output in slick terrain and rougher terrain. This allows drivers to reduce wheel spin in slick terrain and increase response in uphill and rock climbing situations where quick response in needed.
The Results: A Technical Triumph
Post-upgrade, this 4Runner has demonstrated exceptional performance across diverse scenarios, including camping trips, off-road trails, and daily driving. The Bilstein suspension system delivers unparalleled ride quality and body control, while the Sprint Booster ensures responsive handling despite the added weight of larger tires and wheels. This rig sounds as aggressive as it looks with its Airraid intake and MBRP exhaust, all for a very reasonable price making them best upgrades for your 4runner.
Ready to Elevate Your 4Runner?
This build exemplifies the transformative potential of a well-planned upgrade. With the right components, a stock Toyota 4Runner can become a high-performance machine capable of conquering any terrain. Whether you seek durability, comfort, or style, these modifications strike the perfect balance for any adventure.
What’s your take on this transformation? Share your thoughts in the comments. For more technical insights and build features, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share. See you next time!