Picked up a 2003 Toyota 4Runner V6!

[Turbo Actual]

That factory amp was probably tuned for that vehicle and that fabric. I see it also drove a generously sized sub. If I recall, the SQ of my 2006 was surprisingly tepid for all the features. That amp was likely receiving full volume at all times with a separate volume control signal from the HU- pretty advanced stuff, but also a pain to modify, which you experienced.

It’d be neat to retain that sub, though it probably only works well within very specific tuning profile.

Yes, when I first opened the box, I was surprised to see so much wiring in the bag. It wasn’t until I realized it’s because it needs to reach the AMP. Audio sounds pretty good even without the AMP. I’ll probably keep the factory radio just in case someone wants it if I were to sell the 4Runner.

 

[CleanSump]

Your install looks OE! Crutchfield stuff has gone in several of my cars/trucks. Current Kenwood head and all the steering wheel and amp integrators in our Mercedes came from Crutchfield.

 

[Turbo Actual]

Your install looks OE! Crutchfield stuff has gone in several of my cars/trucks. Current Kenwood head and all the steering wheel and amp integrators in our Mercedes came from Crutchfield.

Crutchfield is my go-to for sure. I put one in my old Xterra. The Metra dash kits can be hit or miss, but I can’t fault them for that.

 

[Turbo Actual]

Threw on some front brakes tonight. They are NAPA branded. No more shimmy in the steering wheel when braking. I’m thinking I’ll do the drive belt next, I’ve been getting some belt noise on cold starts.

 

[Turbo Actual]

I finally replaced the drive belt. I went with a Bando unit from RockAuto. No more cold start chirps. I did it all from below as it was easier to access the belt.

I also replaced two trip computer bulbs. They very commonly go out. I ordered them through Toyota. It’s nice to be able to see it at night.

I plan to replace both DRL bulbs as they do not function currently. I’m probably a minority, but I like the way they look…

 

[Cheetah-kins]

Didn't read the entire thread but your 'new' 4runner is a nice one, OP. Glad you and your co-worker's grandfather crossed paths. At the risk of telling you what you already know. even at those miles if you keep up the maintenance I bet you'll get many years of fun driving in your 'runner.

 

[Turbo Actual]

Didn't read the entire thread but your 'new' 4runner is a nice one, OP. Glad you and your co-worker's grandfather crossed paths. At the risk of telling you what you already know. even at those miles if you keep up the maintenance I bet you'll get many years of fun driving in your 'runner.

I plan to drive it till the wheels fall off as they say. I’d like a 4WD variant in the future, but my 2Runner will work for the time being!

 

[Turbo Actual]

Got the headlights looking a little better. I used Meguiars plastX. They came out pretty good considering I didn’t do any prep work or sanding. I did about three passes on each light. I’m debating on painting the hood next.

 

[hemitom]

Just read this entire thread for the first time !
man I wish I lived in an environment like yours that sure is clean underneath .
Nice find....

 

[meep]

Got the headlights looking a little better. I used Meguiars plastX. They came out pretty good considering I didn’t do any prep work or sanding. I did about three passes on each light. I’m debating on painting the hood next. View attachment 326353

An old bitog trick. I do this for our church - probably done this to 40-50 cars by now. When the headlights get tired again and these little polishing kits stop making it work, clean them up as well as you can. then lightly buff with XXX fine steel wool. Then spray them with nu-pol clear, one medium coat, one light coat. Nu-Pol doesn’t yellow - and it has pretty good UV inhibitors in it to protect the plastics. It dries very hard.

U-Pol Products 0796 Clear CLEAR#1 High Gloss Clear Coat - 450 ml https://a.co/d/0ax597KR

I’ve done this to every older car I’ve had. 3 guys at work are asking for this on an approaching Friday.

Note, no-pol clear lays down a little funny. I spray in quick passes only a few inches off the lens in a 1-2” fan, at moderate speed. It runs sooner than you’d want it to. Also, it will scare you at first because it looks like orange peel, but be patient and it lays down smooth. This is really important on the second coat, you have to trust the paint to clarify, otherwise you’ll be tempted to stack a third coat or more and paint yourself into a mess. One medium coat, one light. You might practice first on a clear piece of Tupperware bin or other plastic.

 

[Turbo Actual]

it was short lived but the 4Runner got some new rims and tires off my co-workers Tacoma. I think they look great! Unfortunately the “boss” said no. The boss being my SO. Happy wife, happy life right?…the old aluminum rims will be back on next week.

 

[Turbo Actual]

The new wheels are staying now. Tires are GoodYear Wrangler Workhorse A/T’s. Co-worker attempted to put the wheels on his 2026 Tacoma but they did not fit due to the lug nut design.