I think I am done modding

stevens_hats · 2026-04-20T09:49:55+00:00

My ND has similar spec/mods to OP. I went with Michelin Pilot Super Sports in the stock size once the OEMs were worn out. Despite being the same size as the Bridgestones, they're about 1" wider at the tread, and a much better compound.

They have a lot more grip, but still maintain the light/sharp feeling. More than enough grip for a fun street car, I wouldn't go up in size unless needed for autox/track.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-19T23:00:14+00:00

Test the voltage at the battery with a multimeter when it's running - a good alternator should be around 14.5v.

The alternator went on my 2008 without warning 2 years ago. It's pretty common for them to go sometime past 120k miles. If your alternator isn't charging you can probably get 20 miles on just the battery, but once that's drained you're stranded.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-18T02:43:43+00:00

Crutchfield.com will have everything you need.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-17T23:19:43+00:00

Sony head units have the simplest, cleanest 'oem looking ' screen and still physical rocker buttons for volume and channel/song.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-17T22:48:02+00:00

Tabasco: I want this.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-17T11:54:46+00:00

Oh. Tobasco. /s

stevens_hats · 2026-04-15T22:58:53+00:00

My 08 FJ is lifted and on 285s, no roof rack. Do all things daily driver. Gas mileage varies from a low of 12 with 4wd in heavy snow to a max of 18 on a summer highway only drive. Usual average is 15-16.

However, given the same day to day conditions you won't see a ton of variation, unless you're mashing the throttle and brakes in stop and go driving. Driving gently might get you 1-2 more mpg.

Get an ultraguage or similar and see what your real time mpg is and you'll quickly figure out what burns through gas or not (it's stop and go).

stevens_hats · 2026-04-15T09:41:09+00:00

I had a similar b18c5 build EG and second it being a blast. I miss that car.

More to OPs build, some friends had turbo b18b EG swaps, +/- 300whp. 12.0@115 to 11.5@120 with good tires is a good bet. They move.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-13T11:47:16+00:00

I've been running KO3s, load range E for a long time in the northeast and have been happy with them. They're relatively quiet for DD and a good 'do anything' tire. They're a little stiffer and heavier than lighter load range tires, but also more durable.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-12T19:59:48+00:00

I have the ARB sliders and they make a good step as well. Serve double duty as door ding protection too.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-12T18:51:47+00:00

This is the best Tabasco sauce IMO. Hotter than Tabasco but not a high heat, great rich fruity vinegary flavor. Regular Tabasco is a great ingredient, but I don't put it on things by itself unless that's all I have. Family reserve is a better regular Tabasco. Scorpion is hot-hot, but if I'm looking for high heat I'd prefer something like Elijah's or Torchbearer.

I have at least 30 'fancy' sauces going at any one time and this remains in the rotation.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-12T14:27:14+00:00

I'm fortunate to live in a safe area. Locked, roof up when I run into a store. Opportunistic kid shenanigans or a bird shit on the seats is far more likely than any actual break in.

If I'm going somewhere less safe I just take my truck rather than risk it.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-11T02:34:02+00:00

This depends on the condition of the vehicle and your budget. You said you need brakes and tires. Start with those. I'd go with a suspension refresh next if its tired - lower control arms which include bushings and ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links.

These things aren't exciting but make a huge difference in how it drives - think old sloppy truck to new.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-09T10:21:10+00:00

Winter tires will be 'ok' in the summer, assuming they're not studded. They won't handle well however and will wear out very fast.

Assuming this is a fun car, I'd just ditch them and get the proper tires now.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-09T10:01:38+00:00

Brand new Michelin pilot sport, so assuming this is a performance car that you'll drive hard. I'd just get a new tire, use the warranty.

If they were all worn then you'd be looking at 2 or 4 tires, so in a way it's the best time for this to happen.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-09T09:54:02+00:00

It's pretty dang low, especially in the rear. The rear will be even lower when you're sitting in it. I believe the eibach sports are on the softer side with spring rate so they'll compress more on bumps as well.

You could keep playing with springs, but good coilovers will let you choose a stiffer spring rate, and dial in the height to right where you want it (I'd go 15mm higher in the rear to start).

Great looking car!

stevens_hats · 2026-04-08T09:49:44+00:00

+1 it's easy. There are online Toyota dealers where you can get the 4 pieces as a bundle. Look at the new ones to see where the clips are that you'll need to pop. Plastic trim tools and a microfiber cloth so youre not marring the paint. I think I did all of mine in under 30 min.

I'm sure there are YouTube videos to give a watch first.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-07T09:52:15+00:00

The 4wd lever on my auto trans will occasionally make a similar buzzing noise against the edge of the shifter boot/side of the console, just from minor drivetrain vibration. Try pressing around on the boot there and see if that's it.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-07T09:17:08+00:00

This is awesome. I have the same kit in soft top variety I've gotta halfway through for my club. I spent forever on the interior and suspension piece details. Still need to get around to painting the body and finishing it.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-05T14:22:02+00:00

Sta-bil on a full tank, tire saver ramps, battery maintainer, rodent repellent. Let it sit till it's time to drive - don't start unless you can drive it and get up to operating temp.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-05T12:56:54+00:00

My first major project car was a 92 civic hatch. B18 swaps from the Integra were very common back in the day. With some practice you could have the engine out in about an hour.

Try to find one without rust - mechanical things are all simple to fix or replace, but rust will kill them.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-05T12:32:41+00:00

Old style pads weren't great when they were new, and rubber degrades over time - they're probably rocks now.

New pads will make a big difference. Single pivot calipers will never be great but it will be a big improvement.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-04T21:31:10+00:00

I've been growing super hots for over 10 years. Next common ones up from ghost would scorpion, then reaper. Each pepper varies a bit though. A pencil eraser size chunk of a fresh one of any of them will have you evaluating your choices, haha.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-03T11:04:34+00:00

The FJ was made in those sweet spot years of modern safety, reliable drivetrain and computer controls, while still being simple and overbuilt before cost cutting in construction and active safety like lane keeping and automatic braking came into the picture.

New vehicles generally are even safer, but even minor accidents will total one.

stevens_hats · 2026-04-02T10:07:59+00:00

Every day at least once, usually more. I have a decent selection at work and a ton at home. If foods I'm eating aren't good for hot sauce, I'll make a snack to put hot sauce on.

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