This article was last updated on May 1, 2024.
If you frequently camp out or like to bring larger, bulkier items on your off-road trips, you’ve probably noticed that those objects love to fall or slide all over the place once you hit the trail. You’ll need something that can work as an Overlanding table to put or strap down any equipment that will be permanently installed, such as refrigerators, storage boxes, tool bags, drawer systems, and so forth.
The 5th generation 4Runner’s drawback is the absence of crucial tie-down points in the cargo area. Only two factory tie-down points just behind the back seats and two in the front are included with the 4Runner. But it doesn’t change the fact that the fifth-generation 4Runner is one of the finest Overlanding vehicles out there.
All these issues are addressed today by Aiden James Customs, which offers a universal gear plate that enables you to mount critical items in the cargo area. Likewise, Aiden James Customs has a riser kit with hidden tables that gives you much-needed prep space when you’re on the go.
If you’re interested in learning why a Fifth-Generation 4Runner is an excellent Overlanding vehicle and how to utilize its storage beyond maximum while adding an Overlanding table or two to the mix, keep reading!
Table of Contents
- Why a Fifth-Generation 4Runner is a Great Overlanding Vehicle
- A Gear Plate Enhances the 4Runner’s Storage Capabilities
- Add an Overlanding Table to Your 4Runner for the Ultimate Overlanding Experience
- Recommended Overlanding Gear
Why a Fifth-Generation 4Runner is a Great Overlanding Vehicle
“2016 Toyota 4Runner 4×4 $43,039 USD” by Michel Curi is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Toyota’s extraordinarily high reliability and affordable maintenance costs are perhaps the first things that come to mind when you think of the company. With the Toyota 4Runner, you have a wide range of model choices with several drivetrain setups.
The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro occupies the position at the top of the list. It has a 4.0-liter DOHC 24-Valve V6 engine with Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence.
This engine delivers 278 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm and 270 horsepower at 5600 rpm.
A 5-speed automatic transmission with a part-time 4-wheel-drive system is included with this engine. A locking rear differential and active traction control (A-TRAC) are also included in the 4Runner’s TRD Pro trim.
The front suspension is a coil-spring independent double-wishbone with a stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension is a coil-spring 4-link with a lateral rod and a stabilizer bar. High-performance shocks and front springs modified by TRD are included in the TRD Pro trim for more toughness.
Additionally, the 9.6-inch ground clearance of the strengthened body-on-frame SUV and the large all-terrain tires come standard on the TRD Pro. A full-size spare tire is even installed underneath the body.
The Multi-Terrain Select for enhanced traction, Hill Start Assist Control, and Crawl Control, which essentially takes care of everything by automatically modulating the throttle and the brakes on five low-speed settings, are additional tools at your disposal that can make you look like an off-highway hero. You only need to navigate. Last but not least, it has a 26-degree departure angle and a 33-degree approach angle.
One may assume that the Toyota would lack in frills and technology given its extensive off-road capabilities, but this is not the case. On the other hand, the 4Runner doesn’t overdo touch screens or do away with tactile buttons from the dash.
It has amenities like LED headlights, LED fog lights, the distinctive motorized rear glass for trunk access, a 120V AC power socket for an emergency power supply, and a 15-speaker JBL audio system for a pleasant music experience. Its features, functionality, dependability, and off-road prowess elevate it to the status of the best family SUV available.
A Gear Plate Enhances the 4Runner’s Storage Capabilities
You will require a lot of supplies when off-roading to keep everyone safe, including yourself. You’ll need to invest in alternatives because the interior only has so much room for your things and everyone else riding with you.
The AJC Gear Plate for 5th Gen 4Runner is a wise suggestion for your every need. This gear plate offers various mounting options for fridges, kitchen drawers, and gear tie-down points. And with a riser kit (discussed below), you can add an Overlanding table (two, actually) to your rig. Nice!
No substantial demolition, carpet removal, or soundproofing at the back is needed to install it, either. It takes about four minutes to install and firmly retains everything you mount on it. The highest-quality Baltic Birch is used in its construction, including black 3mm Rhino Lining for durability and all necessary installation hardware.
With an Aiden James Customer Gear Plate, T-Nuts are included in every hole to make it simple to mount your gear and related hardware.
You will have a few options for mounting the AJC Gear Plate system depending on your 4Runner. This system is compatible with the TRD Off-Road, Trail Premium, TRD Pro, SR5, and base models. A gear plate system for the 3rd row 4Runner is currently in development.
Owners of cargo trays can choose between mounting a tray directly on top of their cargo slide tray or removing the cargo tray and replacing it with a Gear Plate. Owners of vehicles without slide trays can simply fasten the Gear Plate to the side tie-down points directly over their carpet. It doesn’t get much simpler than that!
Add an Overlanding Table to Your 4Runner for the Ultimate Overlanding Experience
The 5th Gen 4Runner Riser Kit with Twin Slide-Out Tables is here to expand your storage even more and improve your travel experiences if you’re a frequent traveler. The kit installs well underneath the non-sliding Gear Plate in 4Runners without the factory luggage slide or the third row.
The riser kit makes the top of the gear plate equal in height to the folded-down position of the back seats. It includes a dual Overlanding table setup that is neatly hidden inside. As with the gear plates, the riser kit has the same Rhino Lining, and the tables are stained and sealed to provide protection.
There are three different options for Overlanding table colors, and the kit includes the hardware and is simple to install beneath the gear plate. In other words, this is a simple and affordable solution that expands the storage and organization capabilities of your 4Runner while also giving you Overlanding table space for preparing and eating meals while you’re on the road.
There’s a lot of gear you need for a successful overlanding trip, to be sure. But items like the Aiden James Customs gear plate and riser kit with twin tables form the basis upon which all your other gear rides. That makes them a critical part of your Overlanding setup!
Recommended Overlanding Gear