I am looking into purchasing a first gen 4 runner for a second vehicle. I want to lift it and make it trail cabable but still be able to drive it on the road 20 miles each way to work. I do not do extreme wheeling so the IFS does not scare me. I want to run ~33's with a rear locker and I understand that to do it on an ifs vehicle I could add a leaf in the rear and install spacers in the front I would also consider adding a 1-2" body lift. Should I forget about a 86 or newer runner and concentrate on a solid axle or would I be better off with the newer (86-89) runner? I like the removable tops of these vehicles as well as their trail capability. I am just looking for some opinions or suggestions from others who have contemplated this and also what kind of lift setup you think would be best.

the 86 and newer ifs runners are good on and off road. the 84 -85 are better off road. if you dont do exterme wheeling it will prove easier to fing a good shape ifs runner as they were made for more years. b.j. spacers,add a leafs and a 2" body lift will fit most 33" tires unless you run super swampers or tires like that.(they run bigger than say bfg at's). the regular 3" body lift will work alone but tha b.j. spacers are going to give you more wheel travel up front. (thats the ifs weakness, not enough wheel travel) happy wheelin

If I understand your situation right, I would get an 85 and put a 2 to 4" suspension lift ($300). You dont abosolutely have to change gearing ($1000) with 33's. For light wheeling you cant beat the simplicity of the near stock 85 with an inexpensive easy to instal lift. Change the gears after a while when you can afford it or decide you need some type locker(s).

My opinion

C

Go with a later 1st gen. Save the 300.00 that was mentioned earlier and get a Roger Brown body lift for an 88 or 89. In PA, probably have better luck finding one in half way decent shape. My IFS front end is pretty much stock except for the 2" body lift and Detroit (Lockright in rear). I beat the heck out of mine and the IFS should be fine for what you describe. Also running 34's. Flat belly from Budbuilt helps too. Here is a pic from the last outing.. The picture does not do this rock justice..

If I were in your position, I'd go with a '89
4Runner (newest first gen) and 32" tires
(a perfect match with 4.88 gears).

Get a 1" body lift from 4CRWLR (Roger Brown).
Do a 2" suspension lift. You may be able to get
by with 1" at first (tweak the torsion bars
and shackles in the rear).
Welded-on nerf-bars, and on-board air.
A modest investment (except for the gears), great wheeler,
and still maintain near-stock ride and reliability.