Aaron Musich
Southern New Jersey
Instagram Link
https://www.instagram.com/aaronmusich/
Let’s showcase the incredible upgrades made to Aaron’s 1985 Toyota 4Runner. Aaron, a passionate off-roader from Southern New Jersey, has been the proud owner of this 4Runner since he was 18. Now, at the age of 32, he decided to take his off-roading experience to the next level with some massive upgrades to his trusty 4Runner.
We will take you through the journey of how Aaron transformed his 1985 Toyota 4Runner into a true off-road powerhouse. From a custom frame and advanced suspension system to upgraded axles and tires, a powerful engine and nitrous boost, a 4-speed manual with an NP 200 transfer case, and the changes made to the cooling system, we will cover it all. So buckle up and join us as we follow Aaron’s journey.
Undercarriage/Suspension
One of the most significant changes Aaron made to his 4Runner was the custom frame. Built using a strong and durable rectangular tube, this addition not only added strength but also improved the vehicle’s overall stability with all of the bigger upgrades added to it.. To further enhance the off-road capabilities, Aaron also added a triangulated 4-link system in both the front and rear of the 4Runner.
This advanced suspension setup allows for better articulation and improved handling when navigating rough terrain. He also incorporated 1996 F150 coil springs set to provide additional lift and clearance. This allows him to tackle even more challenging off-road obstacles with ease. To complete the suspension upgrade, he also installed hydro steering, which provides better control and responsiveness when driving off-road.
Drivetrain
In the rear, he installed a Chevy 14 bolt axle with Detroit lockers. This beefy setup provides exceptional strength and traction, allowing him to tackle any obstacle with confidence. Up front, he went with a Dana 60 kingpin axle with a chromoly spool. This heavy-duty setup is built to withstand the rigors of high stress situations.
The spool provides added strength in otherwise weak points. He also installed 4.10 gears, which provide a lower gear ratio for better crawling power. To complete the off-road package, he outfitted the 4Runner with 44” bogger tires with tubes and 14” wide Bart racing wheels. These massive tires give the 4Runner the clearance it needs to power through the muddy terrain, and the Bart racing wheels provide a sturdy platform for the tires to grip onto.
Under the Hood
A significant boost in horsepower is created by installing a fully forged small-block Chevy engine. This high-performance engine is built to withstand the demands of off-roading and provides a substantial increase in power. He also added a nitrous system, with 150 shots of nitrous.
This powerful addition provides an instant boost in horsepower and is able to help him reach around 450 HP . He also changed the engine’s cooling system by moving the radiator and fuel cell to the back. This provides better weight distribution and allows for better heat dissipation, ensuring that the engine stays cool even under heavy loads.
Transmission
Manual transmissions provide more direct and precise control over the vehicle, which is especially beneficial when navigating difficult terrain. The 4-speed manual in Aaron’s 4Runner gives the driver more options for gear selection, allowing for better control over the vehicle’s speed and power. This allows Aaron to tackle steep inclines and navigate rough terrain with more ease and control.
The NP 200 transfer case is also an excellent addition for off-roading. It is known for its strength and durability, and it provides the driver with the ability to shift between 2WD and 4WD, as well as a low-range gear ratio.
In a Nutshell
Aaron’s 1985 Toyota 4Runner has been transformed into a true bogging gem, thanks to his massive upgrades. From the custom frame and advanced suspension system to the upgraded axles and tires, powerful engine and nitrous boost, each upgrade works together to enhance his off-roading experience. We’re excited to have been able to showcase his journey of enhancing vehicle and being able to show what others across the country can come up with. Thank you Aaron for showing this thing off and we’re looking forward for more rowdy videos.