Where to start?

[wubba]

Okay, so I have been muddin' and off roadin' for years and I know how to do it, but I haven't the foggiest about the hardware. I just bought a cherry 1992 4runner and I was wondering where to start. I've decided not to waste what little money I have on a lift because that is all I would be able to afford. I'm looking at some 31 x 12.5 mud tires and a K&N filter. I know the Bear-Sterns collapse is going to drive prices up and I have two questions. 1) will 31x12.5's rub the wheel well or be too big for a 92 4runner without a lift? 2) what upgrades should I start with to build a monster...over time?

Also, what is the best tire for superior mud traction and the longest life in regards to driving on the pavement, after all this toy is only going to get into the woods about once every week or two.

Thanks, by the way, this is the most informative and enjoyable off road site I've come across. And trust me I have been doing a lot of research.

[fourwd1]

wubba said:

Also, what is the best tire for superior mud traction and the longest life in regards to driving on the pavement, after all this toy is only going to get into the woods about once every week or two.

I'd go with BFG AT's.

As for as ugrades for a monster build, what kind of monster are you building?

[wubba]

I spend most of my time in shallow mud, creeks and climbing up hills. Not much rock crawling or sand on the farms I goto. I want to get the best ground clearance and a lot of torque to maybe pull a trailer or boat.

[fourwd1]

A good suspension lift will give the most clearance. There's plenty of kits out there.

For a lot of torque you may want to do some engine work. If you have a 4 cyl you're in luck, there's many options. If you have the V6, you're screwed, no upgrades I'm aware of (other than a better engine ;D)