The Relic#

My 1997 base-model 4Runner is referred to as "the relic" in my family. It's among the things I class as "stuff that works" (refer to Guy Clark song of the same name). It goes -- via highway and forest-service trail alike -- wherever I want to go, and I strive to keep it running true.

The relic at the Very Large Array

I do most maintenance and improvements myself -- made easier because the relic is so old-tech. I have a couple of 4Runner/Toyota gurus to call on if things get challenging. The Colorado Front Range is 4Runner country (yes, and Jeep and Bronco country too), so parts, expertise, and camaraderie are easy to come by.

What it's made of:

  • 3RZ-FE 2.7l 4 cylinder
  • W59 5-speed manual transmission
  • VF2A transfer case
  • 245/65R17 AT tires on 03-07 Tundra 10-spoke wheels
  • Set of 4 square-link tire chains for when the snow gets really serious

The relic arrived at the family cabin in winter

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