2015 4Runner Trail Premium · Build Tracker

Trail Premium Build

Phase-by-phase build plan for a 140k-mile Trail Premium doing an even mix of overlanding, occasional technical trail, and daily driving out of Denver.

Mileage

140,838

Drivetrain edge

KDSS + locker

Tires

Stock ATs, good

Next up

Phase 2 tools

Overall progress (Phases 0–6, excl. Phase 2)—

Build phases

Sequenced so protection, recovery basics, camp and power come before suspension.

Parking lot

Deliberately out of the active order — parked here so context isn't lost.

Suspension — KDSS-aware

Any lift over ~2″ needs KDSS-specific geometry correction (extended track bar, correction brackets) — a generic 4Runner kit, or even a KDSS kit built for a GX460, won't just bolt on. 5280's 1–3 trail band and their never-wheel-solo rule both argue for waiting.

Entry: Bilstein B8 5100 + correction hardware
Mid: Old Man Emu BP-51 (2–3″)
Upper: Icon Stage system (2.5–3.5″)

Comms buildout — mounted GMRS + antenna

Handheld (TIDRADIO TD-H3) is bought and covers the class. A mounted radio is still wanted eventually — Midland MXT275 (15W) or MXT575 (50W). Antenna gain should go lower (~3 dB) for Colorado's varied elevation, not higher.

Sequencing trap: the permanent mount is gated on Phase 4 (roof rack choice) and Phase 5 (ditch light brackets compete for the same A-pillar space) — run a mag-mount until both settle.

Future / nice-to-have

Matching full-size spare — current spare doesn't match the other four (a problem with a locked rear diff). Buy five at the next tire replacement, ~18 months out.
Extended-range aux fuel cell
On-board air upgrade (ARB twin) if the Phase 2 compressor becomes limiting
Interior refinements, badge/aesthetic items

Open decisions

Mark resolved once you've actually decided, not just discussed.