Big trip coming up: any preventative maintenance I should do? (2008 4Runner)

Hi folks!

I have a 2008 4Runner limited with moderate offroading mods (3 inch OME lift + 32” BFGs). It has 135k miles and has been well maintained by the original owner and me (second owner).

We are about to go on a long trip (west to east coast, and back). All on-road travel. About 5,000 miles.

Question: is there any preventative maintenance you recommend we do? In particular, we’d hate to breakdown on I-80 in the middle of nowhere.

Also, in general, I would like to maximize the reliability of the vehicle because we will be doing some offroad trips in the next 6 months where the issue will be important (Death Valley; Lost Coast).

Here are the items I think are relevant as well as their status:

• Brakes: new front pads/rotors, rears are fine
• Brake fluid: just flushed
• Battery: works fine, replaced 18 months ago (Costco)
• Spark plugs: done at 120k in 2018
• Diff/xfer case fluids: changed at 113k in 2018
• Water pump: replaced at 100k in 2016
• Thermostat: original (not sure why the PO didn’t replace with water pump)
• Oil change/air filters: just replaced

Any reason to replace the thermostat?

Radiator is original, but seemingly no problems. Fine to leave as is?

Anything else you’d recommend?

Thank you!

Charley

 

I’d check all hoses, make sure they are not super stiff/baked with cracks, check all belts and pay attention to cracks in them (replace if heavily cracked). Whenever I change a water pump, I personally change out as well since I’m already in there because if your thermostat goes out in the summer you’re in trouble. As far as the radiator goes, if you have the money to spare, for me personally I would change it for that lengthy of a trip. It shouldn’t go out, but with driving in higher temps I think it would be a nice peace of mind knowing your cooling system of optimal. Sounds like you got it all covered! Only thing I’d recommend is carrying a mobile jump starter battery. I have a NOCO I carry at all times, have had it for 3 years now without using it once and it still has a 75% charge. Always good to have for the what if’s. Safe travels!

 

Lost Coast, fuck yeah. I live there. Holler if you need anything while out here.

Do Usal Rd and camp at the beach!

 

5 quart drain and fill of the transmission fluid. AISIN Tranny in runners holds 13 quarts. Toyota recommends D/F at 100,000 miles but says it is lifetime fluid.
I'd pick up a new AM starter at Amazon and carry it. I've been through 4 starters on my 2005 4runner SR5 (150,000 miles) - including the OEM that lasted 4 years. Cost of a new one at Amazon is $100. Get a Quality Built as they are warranted for life. Check this before you buy.

Tools for taking out starter's two bolts. My mechanic did mine in the driveway without a jack for $60 and it took him 45 minutes. Make sure you disconnect the battery.

Watch/check your coolant level every day - especially through Rockies. One overheat and your 4runner is toast!

Change radiator cap with new one OEM.

 

Thanks all!

Yes, I had the ATF fluid changed @ 112k (so good there)
Yes, I have a mobile jump starter

I went ahead and just had the radiator/hoses/thermostat/cap replaced. $550. Felt odd replacing "working" parts, but it will buy me some piece of mind and hopefully reliability.

@MeefZah, thanks for the offer Not sure when we're heading to Lost Coast, but hopefully some time in late August or maybe September.

 

I'll be here... unless I'm not!