I think it's 'come-along' - but basically a tool that connects to a tow strap to pull your truck out when it gets stuck. Definitely a must if you don't have a winch.
About the closest places to Vic is Sooke and Duncan as Larry says. I'm around Duncan myself and would be happy to show you some trails. The best views are inland from here, but there are some good ones out past Cowichan lake. I just posted a new thread in the trail run section so maybe we can get a few of the newer guys together for an intro run.
^^ Do it! 4Runners are by far my favorite vehicle for wheeling around here. Small enough for the tight stuff, but big enough to be comfortable.
As for model year, you can't really go wrong as they all have benefits. Some earlier 1st gens come with a solid axle, which is probably your best bet for low cost hard wheeling, but you might not be able to find one. 2nd gens (90-95) start to get a lot more comfortable, look the best imo, and have tons of aftermarket support. 3rd gens (96-02) are more costly to upgrade, but in my experience are the most capable stock. They're also the most comfortable - nice room for sleeping if you like to camp, and lots of engine power (comparatively speaking). Don't bother with any models past 02' because they're generally not very good for what we do. 4th gen and beyond are generally only good for mall parking lots and picking up kids from soccer.. :)
Some things to look out for: rear windows in these things suck across most model years. They often fail especially on the older models so make sure you test it out when buying. Beyond that rust is the biggest issue I've run in to personally, and some of these trucks have the cancer bad (check the frame).
If you're looking for a 3rd gen, try to find one with the factory e-locker (little orange button to the left of the steering wheel that says 'rr diff lock'). This is the single best off road upgrade you can put on these trucks, so it's nice to have it from the factory.
Welcome! Nice tires - looking forward to see the progression.
Since you're in the valley you should meet up for a trail meet one of these days. Looking at putting together something soon.
I think it's 'come-along' - but basically a tool that connects to a tow strap to pull your truck out when it gets stuck. Definitely a must if you don't have a winch.
About the closest places to Vic is Sooke and Duncan as Larry says. I'm around Duncan myself and would be happy to show you some trails. The best views are inland from here, but there are some good ones out past Cowichan lake. I just posted a new thread in the trail run section so maybe we can get a few of the newer guys together for an intro run.
Welcome to the site!
Welcome to the site! I envy the luxury bed you must be able to set up in that thing. Leg room for miles :)
^^ Do it! 4Runners are by far my favorite vehicle for wheeling around here. Small enough for the tight stuff, but big enough to be comfortable.
As for model year, you can't really go wrong as they all have benefits. Some earlier 1st gens come with a solid axle, which is probably your best bet for low cost hard wheeling, but you might not be able to find one. 2nd gens (90-95) start to get a lot more comfortable, look the best imo, and have tons of aftermarket support. 3rd gens (96-02) are more costly to upgrade, but in my experience are the most capable stock. They're also the most comfortable - nice room for sleeping if you like to camp, and lots of engine power (comparatively speaking). Don't bother with any models past 02' because they're generally not very good for what we do. 4th gen and beyond are generally only good for mall parking lots and picking up kids from soccer.. :)
Some things to look out for: rear windows in these things suck across most model years. They often fail especially on the older models so make sure you test it out when buying. Beyond that rust is the biggest issue I've run in to personally, and some of these trucks have the cancer bad (check the frame).
If you're looking for a 3rd gen, try to find one with the factory e-locker (little orange button to the left of the steering wheel that says 'rr diff lock'). This is the single best off road upgrade you can put on these trucks, so it's nice to have it from the factory.
Good luck with the search!
Hey it was time for some change so I used your pic on our homepage ^^ You're famous. :)