Lowering a Prerunner to base model spec?

I'm looking at a Double Cab to haul dirtbikes. This may sound like heresy, but they only seem to come as Prerunners, and I'm not so into the look. I would much rather have a lower body for easier ramp loading and smaller, lighter, cheaper wheels and more quiet, street-oriented tires. Might even handle better.

How hard is it get these back to base model spec? I expect springs, shocks, wheels and tires? Anything else? I wonder if the steering geometry or drive shaft changes? I expect that the right base model owner would be happy to do this swap and even pay for the labor?

 

Sounds like you need a X-Runner (which I believe only come in AC. Could be mistaken)

If not that then a very base model sits lower than a Prerunner

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Taking a Prerunner back lower specs would most likely kill the resale value of your truck. Food for thought.








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they make 4 cylinder double cabs now, think they started in 2012/13, they've got the low wheel base you want like the other 5 lugs have, looks absolutely horrible IMO, but hey whatever

 

Why not a trailer? $400 from Harbour junk err I mean freight and you can pull more bikes than with the truck.

 

There is a lowering kit, but it does not take it to base level height, only 2-3 inches if I remember right. Someone on here installed it, but was then Internet beaten for it. Personally I was considering it also, but decided not to.

 

Thanks for all of the patient responses.

No X-Runner. Definitely want the real back seat (2 kids) 4 cyl. stripper is an idea. I wonder if the AT4 gives up some MPG to the AT5 with the V6? Short bed only, though, but I'm not totally against that. Since you have to have the tailgate down to fit two bikes, I'm wondering what the point of a LB is anyway?

I've considered that, but I'm not a huge fan of the risk, maintenance complication, storage, poor handling and lower driving speeds with a trailer. If I do that, I'd just bail on the pickup idea and just get a cursed SUV, which would probably make the wife happier.

I think this is the one you're describing from Tundra Racing. If it's true, I would be bummed about using bump stops and losing hauling capacity: http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/street-trucks/71098-prerunner-6-bolt-drop-kit.html and here: http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/65118-info-prerunner-drop-kit-tundra-racing-2.html

 

Wow, the giant black fender flares looks especially bad on white 2012-2013 models:

I think there was still body color flares when they were Prerunner grade up to 2011. I may go test drive one after work. The guys who actually own them seem to love them. More old skool like when 4 cylinder was the only kinda Toyota truck there was! http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/4-cylinder/110564-4-cylinder-double-cab-review-prerunner-6.html

 

Yeah... I would have to agree with you.

 

Looks aside, I got mine for the MPG...26+

 

The color coded flares are part of the SR5 Package...

 

Seeing the newer Tacomas like that kill me, those tiny tires look ridiculous on a truck that size, especially with the big fender flares. I don't like it.