Why I Chose This Toyota 4x4 For My Offroad + Overland Build | 1st Gen SEQUOIA

It wasn't my first choice, but ended up being the right choice.
Scored this $4000 Toyota Sequoia from the original owner, and had cash leftover to invest in suspension and gear.
Current build log at the release of this video: • Toyota Sequoia Overlan...
Current suspension setup:
Fox 2.5 DSC Adjustable Coilovers w/ Reservoirs
JBA Upper Control Arms
Dobinsons MRR 3-way Adjustable Shocks w/ Reservoirs
Dobinsons Springs
285/70/17 -12 offset wheels
Pending install(s):
Sherpa Roof Rack
CVT Mt. Shasta Rooftop Tent
President Lincoln II + Amateur Radio
Thanks for watching!

[@corybest2034]

I just found an 02 Sequioa with 90k miles on it and scooped it up! I’m looking forward to building it out and getting outdoors in it.

[@Chaturo]

Nice! Good find. I just also picked up an 02 with 104k miles.

[@davithrin]

My 05 has 418k miles and still running smooth and strong. It gets me anywhere I need to go with ease.

[@artofoverland]

Beautiful! I tend to forget that mine just hit 200k because of how smooth she is. Looking forward to getting to your level some day!

Man what a video... it felt like i was watching a movie from a big production house. 👍👍👍

[@artofoverland]

Haha thanks man I'm flattered! Next video will have to be "Overland: The Movie" In all seriousness I'm actually considering that haha. Thanks for watching!

[@user-zb7nk7pp7z]

@@artofoverland srsly do it! Great production, humor, content!

[@alexross4062]

I picked mine up last year in April. 221,000 mile 2002 4WD Limited, and I paid $4300 for it. So far the only thing I've replaced is the alternator, and over the last week I've gutted the front suspension and steering system for a total refresh with a 3" lift up front and 4" for the rear. Cheers to the adventures to come!

[@artofoverland]

Nice, congrats! I like that the only work I really have to do on this thing is upgrades and general maintenance. For some reason I bought a Volkswagen on impulse a while back as a commuter car, not even at 100K and it's already having major issues. This thing has 3x the mileage now and is in much better shape, sounds and runs better. Safe to say you won a small lottery with that purchase!

[@its-andrew-y]

dang. just wrapped up my first year of ownership in a black 06 Sequoia and it has been amazing. not perfect by any means but incredibly capable, spacious, and fun to drive. and I never feel bad taking it anywhere. it feels at home on the trail as much as it does on the highway.

[@ianstropus]

Subbed due to the excellent sarcasm. Content is just a bonus.

[@artofoverland]

Haha! Not too cringey I hope. More videos in the works! Thanks for watching and subscribing 🍻

[@GO4X4GO]

Greetings from Azerbaijan. In May of this year, I also joined the Sequoia family. This car is a real travel car. I am very satisfied with this car. I wish you all a nice day.

[@AlexDub1318]

Bought one in SFO last week 04 with 281k still sounds and rides smoothly and well I'm starting to really like it 😁

[@JC4130BMX]

I had a 2001 tree, sold it at 192,xxx with nothing wrong...bought a 08 200 series LC at 202,xxx. I love the LC but not worth it at all and now I'm in debt for the next five years. I actually want to find another sequoia and keep both. They have so much space and I wasn't afraid of scratching it. The Toyota salesman told me he went from a 200 series LC to a 07 sequoia...I get it now but couldn't fathom it at the time

[@butterwh]

Bro this spoke to me on a personal level. Have a grand cherokee wk2 and just had my second kid. Need a third row but want to go offroad without selling my house. My jeep trade in is already half what I paid. Thus I found the Sequoia. This video was great.

[@soldiermedic81]

Getting one next spring, just got a '21 4runner trd off road premium and still have an '04 honda accord as the daily

[@slimpak]

I am not going to lie i had this playing on my TV and thought for 3 mins it was an ad bc of the video and editing quality, great job man you gained a follower for sure.

[@Ken-h9r]

I just bought a 2005 160k miles for 4500. Bit of rust on the rear which I wire wheeled and coated with fluid film and some cosmetic flaws on the bumpers and doors.

[@rushthezeppelin]

Picking up a super clean 1st gen Sequoia on Saturday. I totaled my 3rd gen 4runner 5 speed that was nearly fully built out a week ago. Super excited to have some actual power and more room. Biggest downsides I see are breakover and departure angles.

[@VicDamone85]

I need a work truck/daily, and 7 seater for my family, and the Tundra is my favorite truck. I didn’t want to drive something I hated, but I need to save money. It just hit me yesterday that the Sequoia is under $5k in some markets and it looks like I will finally have the cash. Praying this is the right move! We are a Toyota/Lexus family so my expectations are high

[@ECGran]

I can tell you spent a lot of time on this video, Kudos! It’s a great video about my favorite SUV for a family of five. I have an 04 and enjoy driving it so much. It is a thirsty beast but so comfortable. Cheers, brother. God Bless!

[@BrianGarcia711NY]

I have three first gens-an '07 Limited 4WD, '06 SR5 RWD, and a super up-optioned '05 SR5 4WD that's almost as loaded as Limited, other than the power folding mirrors. All have at least 173K miles bit are super solid and dependable trucks. I use the '05 for contracting work and all my coworkers who have newer Tahoes/Sierras/Expeditions with much lower miles all have frequent issues while my truck just quietly goes about it's business every day.

[@bri13wvu1]

love your screen name those tahoes/sierras/expeditions, I wouldn't touch one if someone gave it to me. I'd rather have a 20 year old toyota any day, all day. Not exaggerating one bit.

[@Nacturnal702]

Had mine for 3 years 310,000 mile runs like a champ and is capiable,saving to put a yukon rear diff, lock with ARB pump,Safe Travels.

[@artofoverland]

Sounds exciting. Giving me ideas as well! Wishing you the best on your build 🍻

[@mkultra1985]

Just got a 2003 Limited with 99,960 miles on it and waiting for my frame swap. Looking forward to see what you do in this one. Cool vid.

[@benpitts8073]

the sarcasm and editing is great

[@touchang3787]

I had a 4th gen 4Runner. It got totaled. Now Im looking at the Sequioa.

[@Freedomwarriors0]

I live in Southern California, just purchased my forth Seqouia , 2002 Toyota Seqouia 4WD for 2500, after having three 2WD and selling them to find the 4WD

[@tblue3cibm]

why don't you have 1M subs??!!! made me love my 1st gen even more!! love your suspension setup!!

[@ambienteterrazas]

I was in the same situation as you, looking for my next baja camping rig, there is nothing wrong with the Xterra, i used to have one and at least the first gen is solid, anyways i few months ago i ended up buying a 2002 Sequoia 4x4 with original 180K miles for $4700.00, runs and feels awesome, it has its regular problems like any old truck (needs some minor suspension work and rear door wont open) but i love it so far and once i get the preventive maintenance out of the way i will start with the fun stuff. I too think they will go up in value as more and more people like the idea of a V8 with proper 4x4 capabilites but hey at least we got in early....

[@artofoverland]

I'm still such a sucker for the Xterra. They have a nice unique look to them. That's a hell of a deal as well! I'm in the exact same boat, I have a ton of maintenance to knock out at 200k miles followed by some exciting trips. For the price, the parts and service I'm doing is going such a long way. Once complete she's only going to be more solid. I feel very confident in these compared to past vehicles I've owned for sure!

[@Noobtubeguy]

Literally just bought my moms sequoia for the exact reason glad I found your channel 👍💯

[@christianwolf68]

i currently have a 05 2x4 which living in Louisiana i am setting up as a hurricane evacuation rig . i have my eye on an 07 4wd which i would use for my set up , then find a good auto body guy and cut the 95 up and make in into a trailer to match the 07 full roof racks on both with the roof top tent set up on the main rig awnings off both sides and the usual overland refinements the trailer would have a pressurized shower set up cargo boxes interior sleeping offroad tools recovery gear , and the usual refinements only problem is the wife doesnt like the idea of cutting up the old 05 to make a matching trailer

[@brian1192]

I too was looking for a 4Runner, but man those prices are crazy, now got my eye on a tundra or sequoia both 1st gen

[@artofoverland]

Some of these prices are just downright insulting! I'm definitely a sucker for the tundra. Can't go wrong with either imo 🍻

[@edlareg]

I feel your pain! Got myself a sequoia too!

[@nobodyschild967]

Great detail....Upper control arms play a big factor in lifting these 1st gens. Also the low grqd2e designed spindle knuckles. I myself am on my 5th pair of spindle knuckles. They easily break at that upper ball joint ring. Them gussets DO HELP it to last longer. MAHALO🤙🏾

[@artofoverland]

Thank you! That's good to know, had a little play develop in my front wheels and I'm trying to pinpoint. What kind of issues did you deal with as it failed? Or is this where main LBJ failure is that people speak of?

[@nobodyschild967]

@@artofoverland Other than the weak spindles, I'd say the steering rack & pinion. Not he rack assembly but that steering rack mount that sits under the passenger side. It snapped off the cross member. Welded it back on but difficult to line it up...bcuz i love my 1st gen I've actually decided to gut out the IFS & currently in converting to SAS👍🏽 Im currently

[@kennyjr513]

My 04 4runner was totalled out, I originally wanted to get another one until I looked into the used market.....used 4runner prices have skyrocketed, now I am looking at Sequoia's, comparing them to used 4runners they are a couple grand less.

[@artofoverland]

Sorry to hear about your 4runner man! I see them (4runners) posted every now and then and surprised to see how high the asking prices are. No doubt they are solid but damn! Wishing you the best in your future vehicle choice!

[@JordyAuto]

Great video dude. I just got mine. 07 fully loaded with 105k miles. The interior of the facelift limited is definitely much better. You got a steal at $4k tho.

[@artofoverland]

Thanks!! Sounds awesome. I wish I at least had the steering wheel of the later model 1st gens, I'm envious. I guess I should have specified the difference on this video though! Both versions have unique taillights 🍻

[@roberta.collins3963]

That music is too damn loud! Can barely hear you talking. I've got an O2 Sequoia with close to 300,000 MI. I work construction and have to get into job sites that are just being developed. Often no driveways other than a culvert across a ditch. This is the most capable SUV I've ever owned. I've had suburbans, expeditions, pick up truck Tommy you name it oh yeah, I'm also 76 years old.

[@artofoverland]

Sorry man, I'll do better next time! I recorded the voiceover while my wife was in another room, didn't want her to come laugh at me lol. Thanks for sharing, I love hearing from other Sequoia owners 🍻

[@williamnatkha1122]

Great video bro. I have a white 02, has been great last 4-5 months 275k miles

[@artofoverland]

Thank you! Sounds awesome, she's still young!

[@tcarr195]

This almost the same exact process I went through, never even thought of a sequoia... now I own a first gen😅 LIKED for the intro of pulling the hatch latch😂

[@artofoverland]

Haha, hearing this more and more! Congrats on your new rig 🍻 I went a little overboard on the hatch segment in the video I uploaded this morning, apologies in advance If it's over the top 🤷

[@DefMusic79]

What cubic inch is the 5.7 in the Sequoia? I wish there was a good review from top speed, towing and more.

[@captaininsano2777]

I have a 02 Sequoia w/ 270,000 miles on it. Daily driver that uses no oil. They are known for needing at every 100,000 miles A radiator Radiator cap Heater control valve (on firewall) Timing belts and water pump Frames love to rust. I see yours is rusty. I know your on the west coast but be careful she don't get away from ya. Also be careful with lower ball joints. Check em often. Enjoy !

[@artofoverland]

I appreciate the insight! Living in Southern California I never really considered worrying about rust. But I'll have to look into prevention, especially if I'm taking her out of this weather often. First thing I did when I got her were lower ball joints as well haha. Hold on to your 02!

[@captaininsano2777]

@@artofoverland she ain't goin no where man. Drives like new man. Some Toyota dealerships will still honor the frame recall. Mine had a brand new frame put under it. It was a recall.

[@mrs.f8611]

I went to buy one of these with like 120k miles a few years ago. Fla title literally no rust. They only wanted like 3,400 obo. I missed it by one call lol. I was devastated. Then I Couldn't find anything else that nice so I grabbed an 03 F-150 that was super clean. ONLY other thing as reliable as a toyota. Brakes, oil, tires, thats about it.

[@kaosactual1]

Damn fine video brother. Subscribed on this one.

[@artofoverland]

Thank you so much. I Hope to please with future content!

[@caveman9275]

You have a talent in video making! Woooow Great work🤙 amazing well put together video!

[@Tree_Cruiser]

Same reason I chose mine. Ive also got an 01. Its been great on the trail and on family road trip.. well except for the fuel economy lol! Love the production quality put into the videos man. Looking forward to seeing more.

[@artofoverland]

Thanks, means a lot! The size and space of these are truly something, and having that room to pack the family and still feel spacious is awesome. I hear you on the fuel economy. Especially in California with $6+ I've shed some tears at the pump 🥲

[@Tree_Cruiser]

@@artofoverland $6 is highway robbery!

[@adamking7326]

​@@Tree_Cruiser assault and battery when it reached over $8

[@omarzowila]

I am saving up for a 2010 Sequoia SR5 and I think it will make for a good Off-Road SUV

[@artofoverland]

The 2nd gens are nice! Check out the Sunshine_State_Sequoia channel! kzbin.info/door/SkwIX1ne1rdReIGQbA6wqg

[@kylerwood3169]

I love the way you capture these images. Your dramatic music with sarcasm 😂 keep em comin!

[@Longtraveldreams]

Another black sequoia 🤙🏽🤙🏽

[@pekoe1111]

Dude, same story as me. I have had about 10 Toyota trucks, including five 3rd generation 4Runners. Had a 4th generation 4Runner with a frame that was rotting and decided I wanted to get another one but they are too expensive. Just bought a 2007 Sequoia Limited, Desert Mica with Old Man Tan leather and burled walnut plastic ugly interior. I’m about to get it lifted 2 1/2 inches with 285/70-17 Duratracs.

[@artofoverland]

Nice! Quite the Toyota past for sure. 2007 sounds like a strong buy. You've got that upgraded steering wheel as well at least. I wish you the best on your build and hope you enjoy the lift! I'm loving it, took her out last weekend and thought I'd get stuck at multiple spots but she pulled right through in 2wd. Overall fun vehicle to drive and a ton of space to work with 🍻

[@thehoofersclub]

This might be the way to go since all car brands are producing good looking vehicles that are plagued with defects.

[@frankb9175]

I need help guys i have 05 sequoia rwd. 104,000 miles. I have a random intermittent wheel shake . I changes tires and balanced,alignment , changed rotors and break pads all the way around . It happens highway and free way its random only when it wants to do it tried everything to make it occur but doesnt . It’s annoying because its family car and when it happens takes 20 minutes or so then goes away : i got it to do long trips and cant😢. I see 01-07 on highway just driving around and i second guess mine . Took it to mechanics and no one can get it to act up to find problem.

[@thombatty1950]

What sort of gas mileage are you getting with your Sequoia?

[@smilingjrt644]

Great vid. Prices rising. Anyone added skid plates to protect transmission and/or transfer case? I just picked up a 2006 Seqouia SR5, 251K miles, 4x4, leather, JBL, etc...seems to have all the Limited options but no DVD system (now a good thing), paid $5900. Body in good shape, appears garage kept mostly, original hatch handle, some rust inside passenger side wheel well. I had it professionally inspected w/emphasis on rust, leaks, lower ball joints...found leaking power steering hoses, TPMS lights on, bad tires, questionable serpentine belt, acceptable surface rust on frame/underside (St. Louis area car). Found it had extensive maintenance history with recent brakes, shocks, steering rack, tie rods and more, but mysteriously missing...timing belt/water pump (surely not original?). Tomorrow my ASE certified mechanic son will tackle timing belt/water pump/thermostat, serpentine belt, power steering leaks, TPMS sensors, plus add new spark plugs and BFG KO2s. Not doing a lift, but rock sliders on order. I'm retiring in April...overlanding is the plan, plus he likes to rock crawl so something I can follow with (without tackling the biggest challenges).

[@cristianrivas7540]

How much on the suspension? And list ?

[@khadimrasul73]

2001 with 234,000 on it for $700 should I pass or snag it?

[@anthonymelendez7323]

Loved your video makes me wanna sell my 4th gen and grab a sequoia

[@EvergreenOverland]

Funny tone to the video man. Come back and start making them again.

[@BullSheeper]

Great vid. I miss my family’s 05 sequoia

[@guitarpassion1]

Great video thank you, however, the music is way loud vs your voice and distracting

[@artofoverland]

Sorry, I'll do better next time

[@robinhoodie8999]

#420 subscriber absolutely love the style of your videos I get a chuckle but also you speak very valid points. Love it man can’t wait to see where you go from here!

[@archive.garage]

Funny but informative! Looking for another one, had an 05 as a family hauler and it was great. 1G Sequoias have the BEST Toyota T-case available, 2HI, 4HI open (AWD) and locked center, 4LO. I think I'd want a 2004 next time for a dedicated offroad build because: larger lower ball joints (vs 01-03s), better 4-speed trans (vs01-02), no sec. air pump, 4.10 gears instead of 3.9s in 2005-2007. But my 2000 1G Tundra was stout even though it had the weaker trans and was clearly neglected by POs, put 205HP and 275LBFT to the wheels on a Dynojet with 235k miles

[@artofoverland]

Thanks! Great points. 01 wasn't my initial pick but the stellar maintenance history and records was too seductive to resist lol. Didn't know about the larger lower ball joints on the other years, I figured all models were trash lmao. About to do some hardcore service on her, when I was ordering parts I started seeing all of the differences between years. Very interesting. Would love to check out your build!

[@boostloaded6437]

Got mine for $5k with just under 200k miles 2007🤙🏽🥃

[@adventuretrails1ato]

Very nice Sequoia. Wow you got some editing skills. Keep up the great work.

[@blue24boi]

You should post more stuff this is promising stuff

[@20vmki]

Great video and humor :)

[@artofoverland]

Thank you!! 🍻

[@carlojames3406]

hello did you have rubbing issue with -12 offset? im planninng to have -15 offset. thanks

[@tomwoods8678]

Great video, that was good.

[@Kraden26]

Nice vid man. I went through almost the exact same list as you. Currently in a 3rd gen 4runner, but want something a little bigger to fit the family and more comfy as a daily but needs to be off road capable. Looked at my neighbors 4th gen 4runner, but he wanted too much. Then got close to pulling the trigger on a GX470, but again, that price tag is steep! Turns out a mechanic buddy of mine, who's a former Toyota Tech, is selling his lightly modded 1st gen Sequoia. Will be heading to TX from CO to pick it up in a couple weeks. I'm pretty stoked!

[@artofoverland]

Did you end up picking up the Sequoia? If so how do you like it?

[@Kraden26]

@@artofoverland I did! I'm loving it. Thing's a beast!

[@sunshine_state_sequoia]

love it! And all the little b roll clips lol

[@artofoverland]

Haha thank you!

[@marcusesteves3120]

Great production !!!

[@mikegriffin5915]

Your video was awesome you rock!

[@blackrocklookout]

I feel the first minutes of this video. There is definitely crack involved in the lives of those selling their 4th gen 4runners. What other vehicle can have in excess of 200,000 miles and be priced so high?

[@sebastianromero420]

You missed out on the defining point of the 4runner and Gx- solid rear axle.

[@MrSnoop1987]

I have a 4th gen 4runner 358k on it love it drive it everday truck been good to me but my family has gotten bigger 3 kids my wife and 2 dogs we be pack in the 4th gen on trips lol I love the first gen Sequoia was in the market for a second gen tundra but the prices right now are crazy looking into getting a lst gen Sequoia for the family love the platform 4.7 v8 4wd can tow somewhat decent and have a 3rd row would be good for my family just finding a 4wd one is hard in my area.

[@mrs.f8611]

WEll the 1UZ-FE is the "million mile motor" but still. Same block. 2- and 3-uz engines just more refined.

[@t0nyT]

Love the editing. Would like to see some car camping/camping vids.

[@artofoverland]

Thank you! Those are top of the list for sure. Been taking her on a few shakedown runs as we plan to venture out next month 🍻

[@joebailey7361]

Really good video! 👍🏼

[@metalclawwolf]

I got a clean 3rd gen 4runner. My biggest complaint is how narrow it is. I can easily touch the passenger door without leaning over.

[@bri13wvu1]

the 4runners through 4th gen, and also the 1st gen sequoias, are kinda narrow, you are right. It can be convenient for fitting down narrow trails or roads, and for parking

[@vincentbarrera1705]

The ending won my sub 😄 🤣

[@Trillex82]

very good video, love the great story telling.

[@kevincharles1983]

There ac vent under the steering wheel keeps your balls cool

[@Meerlu]

AND it has a tape deck! :D

[@Jared_Albert]

Music is too loud I can’t follow what you are saying but looks good

[@silentrunning9847]

Great video but turn the background music down abit. It fights with your narration.

[@bigchill1532]

Looking forward to following your Sequoia build. Subscribing!

[@artofoverland]

Thank you very much! I've definitely got some installs in the works. RTT has been taking up space on my storage unit as well 😭

[@robbiesands166]

im close to buying a 06 Sequoia 200k, ok condition for $8.5k. just feels wrong

[@artofoverland]

Any verifiable maintenance history? The newer years are nice! I was sold on this '01 because of the immaculate service records and recent rebuilt transmission from the dealer. Not too familiar with the later years on the first gen

[@PA96704]

Thanks for raising the price LOL

[@alansmith2063]

music lower, talking louder. otherwise great video. now Sequoias will be expensive.

[@artofoverland]

Sorry man, I'll do better. And not sure if that's a good thing or bad thing haha!

[@kendramckenna7312]

Music killed the video

[@AZRob.]

LOL! That was great!!

[@CherokeeChief.]

4k holy shit. I paid 9k for one that 04 185k

[@kj4362]

This was literally me too

[@Ioading...10]

Corona Hills? Aka Lake Mathew lol

[@moondog573]

I understand wanting something else going on with your commentary, but the "background" music isnt "background" enough

[@artofoverland]

Sorry I'll do better Editing these on my laptop and didn't put much thought into the mix or if anyone was even gonna watch them 😂. I'll polish the next ones

[@kj4362]

This was hilarious lol

[@kj4362]

Were you paying homage to the infamous sh#t broken rear door handle? 😂

[@joem4613]

Quit telling people its cheap, 4000 is an unreal number, mines fully outfitted and will cost you $25,000 dollars. Unless you own one shut up

[@joem4613]

It's not ugly inside you twerp, I'm biased, haha 5:10 I've never owned a newer vehicle than my 02 sequoia it has 230k and runs perfectly

[@enriquesuarezjr4107]

Hahaha dope clip

[@shannonswyatt]

I don't know, is it just me, or does it sound like he is whispering in this thing. I get the idea, but man it is hard to make out what you are saying.

[@artofoverland]

I recorded the voiceover while my lady was in the next room. I didn't want her to come and make fun of me so I just did it quietly real fast. Sorry I let you down

[@shannonswyatt]

@@artofoverland That's ok. I watched it again with the captions on so I was able to read about it. Seems pretty nice, I'm considering getting one, mainly for the towing capacity and the small house worth of space in the thing.

[@artofoverland]

@@shannonswyatt the space factor is awesome, when I pack the family + gear and still feel clutter-free it's heartwarming lol. Can't go wrong with it in terms of reliability as well. I feel way more secure in remote locations driving this vs other vehicles. Reminds me of the 22re pickups I had, very solid. Can't comment on towing but I know the previous owner used it for that, must have worked for him since he kept it all those years!

[@sebastianromero420]

Only have a single key in the ignition. That’s how you ruin the cylinder. Also, Eva mendes is a dude.

[@TrickiHunter]

Why tf its music so loud, could barely hear you, wanted to turn it off right away

[@artofoverland]

Gosh I'm sorry

[@adioalexsk8]

Love this video man, literally sharing the same love 🤣🥲 Earlier this year at one point I owned both my 1st gen Sequoia and V8 4runner. My eyes were all set on the Sequoia but I stumbled upon a crazy deal on the 4R 5months into my Sequoia ownership & w/o being in the market for it, just couldn’t pass it up. In this crazy market I manage to score both for $3k each which was unbelievable (04 Sequoia at 267k and 06 V8 4R at 76k but with a rusty crusty frame). But maaan do I love these machines. It was so hard to let go of my Sequoia when I did 🙏🏼 Good luck and best of all the adventures and memories to come with your rig ✌🏼