4x4 shops in Chicagoland area

TRD SE · 10-21-2007, 09:58 AM

I was just out at The Cliffs Insane Terrain Offroad Park for the trail run with the FJ Cruiser Trail Team. Had a blast meeting all you guys and admiring your mods on your FJ's.I've been putting off on getting a lift kit due to the fact of that there is much to choose from and I don't want to rush myself just to get it done. I like to research as much as possible before putting on any major mods.Can anyone recommend a reputable 4x4 shop in the chicagoland area that can work on Toyotas well?Sometimes dealerships can be "iffy" about putting on modifications and retaining your warranty.Also, some of these dealerships technicians look like high school kids at shop class.aka-HACKS! No offense Toyota.
Also, any recommendations on a lift kit set-up would be vastly appreciated. I was thinking of going with a Donahoe coil-overs w/ bump stops,rear springs & shocks and TC's upper uniballs?
What do you think?
Thanks.

gplin96 · 12-06-2007, 02:21 PM

I just bought an FJ Dec. 1st! and have been lurking for a bit. There was a 4x4 shop east of I53 on Dundee (1 mile?) I 'll have to go back and check. I took my 4x4 there a few years ago to see if they could outfit a winch to it before I drove down to the Rio Grande. Though I didn't end up getting service there, they were nice and professional. I'll report back to this thread if I get the address.
My vehicle is mostly stock, though I've ordered an Air Raid and have the optional trd wheels with Goodyear ATs. I'd like to get it offroad ready for a 2008 or 2009 Alaska/Canad trip I hope to do.
BTW, I work in Buffalo Grove so honk if you see a silver FJ with Hella brush guard mounted lights. It MIGHT be me.

Hondo · 12-16-2007, 03:10 PM

I had 3'' skyjacker lift and a set of xtreme pro comp tires. The sevice is professional and warrantied. 630-879-0418

4rnr · 12-16-2007, 07:29 PM

Talk to Tom at TNT4x4

He is located at the Cliffs in the other half of the new building. He has built MANY toyotas and he is the ONLY "shop" that I would trust to touch my truck (that I know of anyway)

Gumby · 12-17-2007, 07:46 AM

Quote:

TRD SE previously said:

.Also, some of these dealerships technicians look like high school kids at shop class.aka-HACKS! No offense Toyota.

What do you think?

I think you just insulted me.

Good luck getting into my shop.

4rnr · 12-17-2007, 08:39 AM

Quote:

Gumby previously said:

I think you just insulted me.

Good luck getting into my shop.

You arent a "shop."
There are plenty of shadetree mechanics I would trust with my truck. They know a HELL of alot more than the typical chicagoland shop. (and that is a MASSIVE understatement)

But if Gumby is offering his services...I highly endorse him as well.

PhilC64 · 12-17-2007, 01:17 PM

Sounds like you don't trust any Cruiser mechanic by the name of Todd.

Gumby · 12-17-2007, 02:31 PM

Quote:

4rnr previously said:

You arent a "shop."
There are plenty of shadetree mechanics I would trust with my truck. They know a HELL of alot more than the typical chicagoland shop. (and that is a MASSIVE understatement)

But if Gumby is offering his services...I highly endorse him as well.

Guess I'll have to cancel the tech day on the 30th.

No shade under the tree.

4rnr · 12-17-2007, 03:46 PM

Quote:

Gumby previously said:

Guess I'll have to cancel the tech day on the 30th.

No shade under the tree.

Whats the name of your shop?

Gumby · 12-17-2007, 04:59 PM

Naperville Central High School Auto Shop.