Ok so i am doing this build thread a little backwards because i have done a ton of work and had no time to organize or post pictures. So back to the beginning even though i have already posted what it looks like now.
Basic 2004 Astro AWD, 95,000 miles, 3.42 gears, good paint, good upholstery.
I know my toyota's but I don't know what to look for on these motors and transmissions. I took it to a trusted mech. every thing checked out with the exception of tires and shocks.... Perfect those were on their way out anyway.
It even came with the old retired couples hula dancer on the dashboard, aarp stickers, and dog hair through out.
I got it home and my 4runner in the background had no clue what was about to happen.
So the plans laid out like this.
Overland 4-5 kit, 245/75/16 tires, ccv top, weekender style interior.
You will notice as i go through most of this that i have copied and stolen every idea i have from others here on the forum. I hope at some point to contribute enough to be a template for others.
First things first Overland 4" kit. I really wanted to piece the lift together but I had a dead line and tons going on at the time. OLV was a touch slow to respond and didn't answer some of my questions but overall i had a good experience with him. I also ordered Rancho 5000 shocks from him, I wanted to do something a little cooler but i needed to get moving with the build and figured it was an ok starting spot.
I recruited my friend who started me dow the road of this whole camper van thing a year or so ago, to help me lift it......after all i helped him lift his westy... His van is in the background of one of these pics
Subframe pucks and longer bolts:
Subframe puck and e brake bracket:
Sketch balls way to support the back end:
Olv lift springs:
Quick way to get the u-bolts back into place:
Rolled it out of the garage:
At this point I have installed subframe pucks and rear springs. I still have torsion keys, shocks, bj flip, and cutting the fan shroud remaining to tackle. But this was a good first days work.
I apologize for typos and lack of capitalization.....i will be posting most of this working on an ipad while holding our 2 month old baby.
I am skipping a ton of pics just to keep this build thread from being too boring.... But let me know if there is something you want to see.
More to come....
Ryan