Insane Transformation of our 1996 Toyota 4Runner

Over the past couple years I have been hard at work building my wifes 1996 Toyota 4Runner into the vehicle of her dreams. Complete frame off restoration, body work, lift, big tires, new motor, the works.
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[@FlawedOffroad]

It was a fun series to watch and the low buck nature of it is the best part. KZbin is plastered with high dollar builds and restorations but its nice to see people sittin in the grass gettin dirty chasin a dream

[@DirtGarage]

Thanks dude! Sometimes I wish I had the high budgets though, would make life alot easier 😅

[@FlawedOffroad]

@@DirtGarage don’t we all haha. I dream of a big shop with a couple lifts😅

[@thezolrack8362]

This is what América should be all about, American wet dream boys.

[@pdubowner]

​@@DirtGarage high budget guys are never happy because they didn't put the work in. They just bought it.

[@308vin6]

Молодец отличная работа 👍

[@Tony__Tone]

The fact that you were able to get that body off the frame without lifting it from above is pretty damn impressive

[@DirtGarage]

Thanks! I make do with the tools I have, the first time lifting the body I did not have the engine hoist yet, was waay more sketch.

[@tonydamiani8029]

Truly amazing ingenuity

[@Max-ik9qb]

Most channels/ builders out there need a plasma cnc table, $3,000+ welders, 2 post lift, etc. Meanwhile homeboy getting down (outdoors) with a 4-1/2" grinder and a stick welder. BRAVO 👏👏👏

[@danieldeemer]

lol and wearing sandals! I love it.

[@pdubowner]

I'm 5 minutes in and absolutely mesmerized by your hard work. Can't wait to see the rest of this.

[@YourOwnWay]

Patience, dedication, and passion are a deadly combo. You clearly have it. Amazing job.

[@UnwindingRoads]

It's amazing what YOU can do with flip flops and a rattle can! 😂 Incredible build Clint!

[@DirtGarage]

CSA Approved flip flops of course..

[@spceinvdr6603]

got a chill down my spine when that hoist started to tip. You got so lucky!

[@philgriswold2133]

Great work. You ability to make something cool out of parts and pieces always amazes me. Anybody can slap together a bunch of pre-built parts on a cherry ride, but you take stuff out of the grave and give it real life again.

[@devenbenton6772]

Love that he kept the clip with the engine tip. Restorations are always full of chaos!

[@blueman5924]

That moment at 4:06 when things come crashing down, is a stark reminder that “sh#t happens”. Even the GM dealer mech dropped my old 350 on the right quarter when the lift collapsed. Heck of a build process dude ! 👏

[@DirtGarage]

Absolutely it does, nothing else to do but keep going!

[@brandonknight7240]

Damn that was scary

[@elkgroveflorin5223]

Right on brother!! Backyard restoration. I admire it my man, this is how things use to be done. I built my Malibu, which ran low 12's in my side yard. Took me 2 years, but I did everything myself, except for the rear glass. When I welded in the bottom rail it had a bit of trouble lining up, but I took it to a shop to have it installed, due to cracking to windshields trying to fit it. I learned how to weld, solder, cut, grind, body work etc...everything on my own, with just two books. Vizards BBC book and a body work book I got from the library! lol! It turned out great because I took my time and fixed any mistakes. It was cool. 17 years old, and the knowledge gained was amazing. Keep at it!

[@sspmoto]

It's been said already in the comments but I just have to add - MIND BLOWING! The hard work , dedication and fearlessness holy shit! It would take me 25 years to do all that and even then would probably never finish! I want to give huge props. I don't have the kehonies to dive into something like that (or the skills).

[@DirtGarage]

Thank you! It was a fun project, and ALOT of work.

[@SOCOM637]

You literally brought a Car back to life 👏 amazing work!

[@kingmouf-c1q]

Love to see everything coming together with your skills it's not easy. I'm still working on mine it's been three years now 😂 I've got alot to go. Good job your truck looks awesome!

[@matthewrankin5027]

Dude… This is sick! Killer build. Would love to see you stretch the next one out over 3-4 episodes and talk through what you’re doing.

[@matthewrankin5027]

Then I looked through your channel… Have some watching to do 🍻

[@DirtGarage]

Yeah there is like 15 total episode of this build!

[@Fyrestare]

this is so much cooler than all the ones done in a huge shop with $300k worth of tools. Makes me feel excited about my 97' limited

[@megh9806]

Thank you for taking the time to not only resurrect this truck, but to film, edit and upload these videos which take just as long. I have a 98 and my frame rotted out this past year, I spent 6 months trying to figure out my next move as I watched you make yours. I found an identical truck for cheap (same year and color) that became the donor of a pristine frame as well as some body pieces. I swapped mine in October and it has been a true miracle. I am now rebuilding the lift and other components as I wanted to “go all out” and not use spacers anymore 😂. My next goal is to save the other/donor truck; to reattach my rear shocks that busted through the body and fix/reinforce the lower rear arms (will never be street legal and don’t want/need it to be). Now moving forward with using fluid film as my previous undercoatings may have caused the rot (though they did last 10 years)

[@DirtGarage]

Man, sounds like a project!! Good luck, and I agree with the fluid film idea! We spray it inside the frames every 6 months or so.

[@blakemiller3587]

Such a good looking rear end you have! and the 4runner looks pretty good too

[@arlenleffmann4966]

That’s completely badass. And you built it yourself, even more badass. Great video!

[@MegaRetr]

Patience, dedication, and passion are a deadly combo.

[@MaskedAvenger-y6m]

You guys did a very good job on that rig! That isn’t easy work and the use of chassis black self etching/curing primer/paint was a super-duper idea. Nice welding jobs too! Rock on guys!

[@denwhisperer7674]

THAT was an awesome transformation. You folks did a great job. I have a ‘97 Gen 3, with 325K miles in excellent condition. They are GREAT units. Again, GREAT JOB!

[@Bozobi]

I am glad to have been recommended your first episode on this saga and to have watched every episode from start to completion. The turn out of this build was spectacular. I hope many more get recommended your channel to re-watch this saga and many more videos from your channel.

[@1htalp9]

This reminds me of when I restored my 1967 Sunbeam Alpine some thirty-five years ago. I did everything on a very tight budget, and 90% of the work myself. It's nice to see a video of an average man building a dream. Thank you.

[@adamyelle4901]

So happy to see a channel like this again. You guys are going to make it big. Ever since dirt everyday left for the motor trend channel KZbin has had a void in this space.

[@NoboriAuto]

Insane to say the least. That was one heck of a restoration! Great job for sure, taking your time to focus on the small details.

[@DirtGarage]

Thanks a bunch!

[@dirttales]

Awesome build bud, but please wear a mask, I'm praying for your lungs!

[@2-old-Forthischet]

Reminds me of the time I placed my cabin cruiser boat on cement blocks to replace the bunks on the trailer. That is one determined owner.

[@zayas6999]

That was an awesome video. I actually watched the whole video WITHOUT skipping forward. Well done!

[@SpicyMcGeezaks]

Man, I am envious. You have some serious skill and dedication!

[@916nick]

Wow. Crazy what some humans are capable of. Very impressive.

[@catfish573]

Been watching you for close to 2 years now. I so much admire your work and I will make it work attitude. Love your channel and you keep at it, the channel will grow and someday give you that boost that you so much need. Thank you for what you do. You are an inspiration!!!

[@DirtGarage]

Wow, thank you!

[@marlonavery823]

Hard work, skilled, talented, dedicated and an Absolute LEGEND ! Your the Man Bro ! Just subscribed. Amazing watch man inspired to keep at it with my 92 4runner hoping one day soon it'll be finished. Massive respect tuning in from NZ brother !!

[@joestanosheck1453]

Great job on the runner. The bumpers turned out great! Everything on it turned out great!

[@tomh894]

God that is such a huge job... ive done engine outs and rebuilds but disassembling a car requires so much patience. Props! Id love to take a couple of months off work and do a job like this - but the Mrs would never approve LOL

[@SirHarlembrown]

I just brought a 96 4 runner 4 dirt with 176,000 on dash ...I would love to paint it ....but u guys inspired me....wow!!

[@Mostafa_Momi]

bro this the best restoration typo video ive seen so far. 4runner was one of my favorite off roader 10 years ago, its still is tho. Man that sheer hardwork and dedication, thats truly amazingg broo. its so far the best toyota 4runner Transformation video ive seen on the internet. a big thumbs up and love broo

[@DirtGarage]

Appreciate that!

[@sleeks9939]

Thank you for the non-annoying music it was a pleasure to watch😂

[@richeyrich2203]

I LOVE that you kept it real and left in the snafoo of dropping the engine. That is some real like shot when you’re working with imperfect tackle and kit. Hope you didn’t break any toes on the build. How many man hours did it take in all?

[@DirtGarage]

Honestly don't know, Many of hundreds!

[@markcreamer3196]

I wish with all my heart, that i could work on toyotas like he does,he is so incredibly talented and inspiring I love toyotas,especially 4x4s,4runners,pickups ,tacomas etc

[@vinceruland9236]

Damn good work man. Props to you for taking on that huge of a task. Turned out great.

[@johnbarton1956]

Nice job man! Few people know how much work goes into a build like that.

[@mountainjeepmike]

Nice work! I’ve seen it up close and personal, and you did a hell of a good job on it!

[@DirtGarage]

Thank you very much!

[@sr.daniell771]

wow, without a doubt, this video deserves more likes and visits to the channel, I loved the whole process of assembling the 1996 toyota truck. It was nice to see the project for assembling, soldering, and painting the truck, I learned by watching it and it was very good. I hope In the future, I will be able to assemble a van that I plan to build as a project. Greetings from Argentina :) :)

[@thomass.1142]

First time viewer, liked, subscribed, and notified.16:01 That Bush template gave me a good laugh! Amazing work throughout the entire build!

[@OhSnapSon]

Dude! That came out sick as hell! You brought it back to life! I wish I had your mechanical knowledge and dedication. Phenomenal job! 🔥🔥

[@DirtGarage]

I appreciate that!

[@gaiterbaby562]

This is baddasss!! I love my 1996 limited. You’ve done an amazing job!!!

[@sebaseba1982]

If you did like your "hobby passion"....Guy you are really great!!!!!!amazing work.....i think few people can understand what is behind do it such project.....and no tools....no garage ...no help from others..... Woow great guy! great job!

[@DirtGarage]

Thank you very much!

[@Eagle031265]

Men I do respect people like you. I will love doing a project like that, but I don't think I can maintain the enthusiasm all that long. Great job . Cheers from Costa Rica. Thank God my 4R is still in good shape, hahaha

[@rashad8509]

Best 3G4R build video on the internet hands down!

[@DirtGarage]

Thank you!

[@BeADad2447]

Awesome how you did all the work at your garage and not a big shop with an unlimited budget and tools.

[@toomanyprojectstx]

Completely awesome build! You’re an inspiration!!!

[@DirtGarage]

Wow, thank you!

[@tm9184]

That’s cool man. Looks really hard and I bet it makes it priceless since you built it with your own hands.

[@cemanon]

Unbelievable !!! Many start something like this and most give up at some point. You have pulled it through to the end and you can be really proud of it!

[@digitalkov]

Wow! Seeing the body come off frame is priceless.

[@Scooters4521]

Well done my friend!! Jealous of you fortitude and sticking to it!!! I wrench on all my crap, but have zero welding skills, now I’m inspired to learn!

[@toxictraveller1892]

I run a 1994 isuzu trooper that is very similar. Good job getting after it. happy trails! also from BC too

[@stephenhoward4941]

Such hard work and what a great job! I loved watching this restoration!!

[@coreyblutaco]

Amazing! Great to see the full build you are super talented! If you ever make it to Sorrento look me up and we can go wheel’n

[@Hooks94.2]

Iv started the process of rebuilding my 2nd gen. Third time iv bought it, but this time there's no hurry to get it going.

[@paulflannigan888]

Mad respect for your skill and dedication.

[@colinswaby9370]

This is so cool. Just bought 98 4runner.You motivate me💪🇯🇲

[@MarreroBuilt]

I love the enthusiasm you put on this build it is not easy to do none of this, just beautiful!.

[@DirtGarage]

Thanks!

[@xargon9922]

Great Job, this looks something real compared versus others projects with a lot of money.

[@sotheamam1244]

Great video. Everything all basic, no fancy tool like 99% of the builders

[@jD-wg3py]

Jeez how long did thise take...amazing job

[@teasquared09]

Beast dude. That body removal was inspirational dawg 💪

[@johnaustin2276]

The best upgrade I did to my 97 was switching that center console with a 99-02 that has cupholders. Total game changer.

[@RolandoLopezNieto]

Damn impressive what you did, specifically with the oil drums. You are a mad man, and I mean that as a compliment.

[@ianphillips6403]

This is art. Save the 4runners! Insane hard work and DIY knowledge. subbed.

[@halvardollikainen3999]

Dude! I almost ran off the threadmill When you tipped over the engine in the hoist! That must have hurt.. Nice project 🙂👍

[@bobbygrey5859]

Congrats on the build enjoyed watching your video.👍🏽

[@MrSlushierGravy]

This dude is badass! Glad I got to see this channel grow from the beginning! Sending love from VA

[@shannonneal9723]

I can't get over how you've done this mostly by yourself! That's a ton of work for one man. 😅

[@crema_argo_offroad]

Wow! A work like that in a backyard. Respect!

[@darrenmackenzie1645]

Awesome video Clint !

[@DirtGarage]

Thanks 👍

[@RyGuy-]

Bros! Make sure you use respirators when working with dust. You don't want breathing issues later in life. Stay safe.

[@leonardmccabe3960]

Really inspiring thanks for this video have an older Delica L300 that needs some love and attention thanks for motivating me to get going

[@Basshead40]

Love it!! I've had my 3rd gen since it was new. Just got done totally redoing it and it looks sooo tough!!

[@donttrustnobody]

You sir are the true definition of a determined mother trucker brother! I sue to have a 96 3rd gen and they’re great rigs.

[@myrealtorandy]

Nice work! Wish I had the skills and patience to do this to my 98 LR Discovery

[@DirtGarage]

I mean, doesn't take alot of skill. I'm in no way educated on any of this 😅 Just figured it out as I went!

[@levizimmerman34]

We were building alongside one another! Your videos helped me recreate a stock front frame rail for an 01😂

[@DirtGarage]

That is awesome!

[@mishomishev3152]

Awesome DIY build. I just cant believe that this 4runner with winch steel bumpers on 35 can be a daily driver :)

[@DirtGarage]

It's a awesome daily driver. My wife loves it!

[@bobbie318]

Great video - I want to know was the engine / trany damaged when you dropped the engine.

[@Chad93oleblue]

Damn paint turned out pretty nice for outside and rattle can not bad at all good job and good looking rig!!

[@chriswheeler5150]

Yo this dude works hard! Can't belive the motor fell

[@Mr2eyedjack]

Lots of hard work went I to the project. I can appreciate that. I have an outdoor garage too. Getting colder now and still have to finish up some projects too. Way to go on getting it knocked out! Looking forward to more content.

[@DirtGarage]

Thank you! I prefer working outdoors than my cramped shop in the summer 😂

[@Ashoud_Anobetah]

Well done guys.. thats a great restoration 😊

[@DavidVelandia-o5v]

You’re an absolute legend for this, what a great build 👌🏼👏🏼🙌🏼

[@theloudprofessional]

Damn dude that’s amazing work.

[@joecoool100]

This was a labor of love for your wife….so many man hour went into this 4runner…..you both should be proud

[@DirtGarage]

Absolutely labor of love, she deserves it!

[@jamesdbrown5703]

its insane when you think about the amount of knowledge and know-how this guy has....to be able to do this

[@seanziesenis4430]

Man you put in some serious work on that old runner.

[@slurm7552]

What’s that stuff you sprayed when you took the carpet out?

[@mikerobinson8734]

These trucks are so awesome. Makes me wonder why I ever sold mine and now make payments on a new one. With the amount of down payment and payments I’ve made on a new one I could have built a seriously awesome rig by now.

[@xixo47]

Thats a lot of work man. good job!

[@isaacmoreno8352]

I ask you for some advice... what do you think about using a grizzly locker in the rear part of the lab for daily use? It's my 4runner my everyday car and I run a high gear to land cruiser in the very rear that I want to upgrade with locker

[@medic75]

Did anyone else see the motor fall? Was that a Canadien tune-up? Nice work on this build and keeping it low budget.

[@protacodan4225]

Lots of hard work well worth the effort. Great job.

[@DirtGarage]

Thanks 👍

[@AverageNeighbor]

What settings did you use on your welder to do the rocker panels, I need to do this to my truck, but I just have a harbor freight wire gun and suck at welding