Help w/ '21 4Runner build.

[Mad-max]

Kelly brought home her retirement vehicle.  We need crossbars and basket recommendations first.  But everything else beyond that.  Seat covers,  tires,  lift,  offroad light system, etc.  It might take us a year or two but I haven't looked into 4wd aftermarket upgrades since I parked my Jeep.  Thanks

[wsdstan]

I would suggest you go to this place and look at a few of the things they do to 4 Runners.  I wouldn't buy a lot of their stuff but there are a few good ideas here.  https://offroadium.com/toyota-4runner-off-road-build.html

Roof racks.  The type you buy should be based on your use.  If it just to haul a large roof top bag you can get by with a smaller basket and roof bar system. These guys seem to have good choices and the prices don't scare you too much.  https://www.etrailer.com/dept-pg-Roof_Basket.aspx.

Thule still makes good stuff and that is what we used on our Blazer a zillion years ago.  I would buy it again should I need a rack.  Their baskets are good but there are a lot of choices out there to consider.

[Mad-max]

Thanks Stan.  The choices are overwhelming.  Then add in the majority of buyers are never going offroad and look for aesthetics and that "cool" factor.  In fact Toyota falls into that with crossbars so low you can hardly get anything to tie down boats between the racks and roof.  Not to mention the sun roof and antenna fin height.

[wsdstan]

It is a daunting task of where to start and where to stop.  In the old days I bought a Thule or Yakima rack, a small basket and called it good.   For suspension on my Blazer I left it stock, added a K&N filter, put on a winch, and a pair of bumper mounted driving lights.  Cibie I think was the brand of the lights.  I bought it with posi-traction and 4:10 gears.  It was used mostly for bird hunting in the three or four States and an occasional trip to the mountains in Colorado, where we lived at the time.

If I was doing an off roader today the only thing I would add is those LED lights and the roof rack and basket, maybe a skid pan or two, and a set of tires like the BFG  KO series.  Always had  good luck with those tires.  Good luck with your "project".

[Mad-max]

Well,  I'm on the same track with tires.  Probably skid plates are not needed immediately. We have just sand down here.  If we start doing 4wheeling up in mountains I'll get those.  My brain hurts trying to match racks with my needs.

[Mad-max]

Researched the led lights.  Sounds like a must have.  Thanks.
I ordered some cheapo OEM crossbars until we decide on the  budget bustin' full roof rack. 

Man,  this is gonna cost.

[boomer]

Had a similar problem finding a roof rack that seemed reasonably priced and would work for what i wanted. Ended up going to place that makes aluminum camper shells and had one made up with their help. They had plenty of experience and some really good ideas. Ended up with a very well made light weight rack for a bit less than the heavier racks were going for. And it could handle more weight. Took longer to get by about 2 weeks but it worked great. I also liked keeping the money close to home.

It wasn't something they advertised but were equipped to handle and good to work with.

Don't know about where you are but it might be worth considering.

[Mad-max]

Boomer,  I don't know why I that didn't think of local fabrication.  Thanks.

[OutdoorEnvy]

I have no direct experience to contribute but like seeing builds so posting the project would be fun to follow a long with.  That's a great rig to start and with how new it is that should last a long time for you guys. 

[Mad-max]

I'll get some before and after shots as it progresses.  Have to rein in the spending a bit.  Having procedures done to my back plus pt.  Just the pt copay is 172.00 a week.   But I shouldn't complain.  At least we're able to get it done without getting in line at the VA.  I heard they are better these days.  But they sucked big time when I went.
I'm going to try to enjoy the process of the build.  First order of business is installing OEM cross bars this morning.  That'll buy me some time for deciding on a more permanent rack.

[Mad-max]

Temporary OEM crossbars installed.  Dog pad back seat cover and  center console cover next.  Maybe lift kit next?  More research on that needed.

[Mad-max]

I'm going to agree with Mannlicher.
One of the best all around offroad SUV for a road trip.
1000 miles this summer so far.  Highway, backroads, gravel, wet pavement, and some low end 4wd stuff. 
Lots groups with great feedback and 1st person experience.