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I'm still new here so let me know if these kind of posts should go somewhere else. I just saw this come up for sale on Craigslist - it's in Petaluma California. https://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/rvs/6175367542.html

I would like to have the two 6 volts batteries (and maybe even 4 later) in a metal box located just aft of the differential kind of like this https://www.vanspecialties.com/gallery_van/yota-4x4/ (see last few photos). Instead of a bracket that requires one to crawl around underneath like they did, I would prefer to access the batteries through a flush hatch in the floor. There's no way I could hang all that weight off the floor so it will require a metal box that's welded to the frame underneath. I was wondering if anyone has done something like that?

Does anyone have a suggestion for replacement hinges for the original bathroom door on a 1984 Toyota Sunrader?

Greeting! LOVE this forum and have been lurking for awhile. My name is Shane and my family and I live in the Black Hills in South Dakota. My wife and I have been weighing whether we wanted a turn key outfit or a project and after 3 years of looking at every Toyota Motorhome craigslist post we could find (rarely seeing a Sunrader), we decided on a PROJECT. This is a 1984 21' Sunrader. 84,000 on the 22R, 4 speed manual. It does have the 6 lug swap out, and it runs well. We drove it home for $2500. That's about the end of the 'pros'. Cons are the leaky roof openings (a/c and vent). One cab-over window is shot. The rest of the windows seem to be holding a good seal. There is some damaged fiberglass between the 2 cab-over windows and near the rear drivers side tire. The roof has a sag where the a/c unit sits. The po also removed the passenger side cabinetry. I have paperwork from less than 2 years ago that show a previous owner had a new alternator, battery isolater and battery installed. None the less, no power to the coach. (Although the marker/ running lights work! I was surprised!) Not sure if any of the appliances/ systems work. The water holding tank, water heater, water pump and grey water tank are all still there. The original furnace is still there, but to the best of the po's knowledge, non-functional. It has the original stove/ oven, but a leaky propane line that I need to repair before I can test. The fridge is electric and not original. The previous owner never used any of the systems. Just the bed. Have only had it for a week and all we've done is clean it up a bit inside and out. The next stop will be our Toyota mechanic's shop to make sure all the fluids are changed, check all the hoses and rubber and whatever else he recommends, and then we'll get started on digging into it! I've read a lot on this forum and I am really grateful for such a killer resource and all the knowledge and wisdom shared here, so THANKS!

Hi all, After spending a lot of time and effort rebuilding my old sunrader, it's time for me to let it go and put some money into a house that isn't on wheels. I made a post about it last fall showing the remodel and the work done on it. I'm just curious what everyone thinks a fair price would be to ask for it after the time and money that I put into it. Here's a link to the original post with pics Thanks!

I'm thinking of installing a new clutch kit in my 1985 Sunrader, 4 cyl 4-speed manual. I don't think it's ever had any tranny work done, so it's likely got whatever tranny they normally came with. Would it just take a standard 1985 toyota pickup kit or was a different tranny used due to the weight of the rig? Any recommendations as far as manufacturers? And, since the rig weighs in at around 6300# fully loaded, is a heavy duty kit recommended? Thanks for any advice from those better versed than me.

I just stumbled across this and wanted to pass it along. I know dreamers and wishers visit this site and may be ready to buy. This is on the high side money wise but he will get it because it is clean and beautiful. Mechanical? Who knows. Sunrader For Sale

I've been doing research to find the best route to go in relation to swapping out my current headlights for an LED alternative. For the most part, people have recounted horror stories. Does anyone have any suggestions/personal success stories regarding LED headlights? I have a 1984 18ft. Sunrader.

Any body know what model this sunrader is or know the history of these things? We just bought it, with plans to restore it and travel and were curius about them. The interwebs doesnt seem to have too much info on them. It appears similiar to the Sunrader Adventure but the roof doesnt pop up. Thanks for the help everyone!

Hi All, total newbie here so go easy on me... I'm just posting because I had a great experience with another member of this forum who invested a lot of time and effort restoring a very nice 1990 Sunrader (and showing me what these things are all about). Since I didn't buy it, I wanted to point out a nice one since they're tough to find... It's even got a fresh V6 with only 1,000 miles on it. I passed on it because it's just too nice for me to start ripping apart... I want to make some interior mods, and pulling all the (very nice) original equipment would be a shame. (if you have something you think might be a better fit, please shoot me a message). Anyway it's still available, and since many of you aren't local to IL I just wanted to let you know that it really is as nice as it looks in the ad: http://classifieds.toyotamotorhome.org/viewlisting.php?view=2719 "Tika" was a real pleasure to speak with. She walked me through every inch of the vehicle, every repair made, every proactive service completed. She really left no stone unturned and spent the better part of 4-5 hours educating me on Sunraders. Her passion shows... in conversation, and in the job she's done on this vehicle. Anyway, this isn't meant to be an ad... just sharing a great experience and a really nice vehicle (in case you are in the market). For me, the search goes on... hoping to find something soon so I can set it up the way I want it, and hit the road. Glad I found this forum - excited to get up to speed on things!

Hello! I bought my '84 Sunrader at the end of September, the previous owner had made lot's of "improvements". One of which was to take the inside frames off of the windows in the cabover bed, then he taped them on with roofing tape (the bane of my existence). Then he was confused about why it was leaking.... Anyway I have a very basic and possibly stupid question about the windows. I have one pulled out, am I correct in my assumption that the inside frame screws down to the outside frame creating a seal by tightening together on your sealant (butyl tape) ? Thank you in advance for your wisdom and help! I'll post pictures as I have them! Hannah

Hi everybody, This forum has been really great for finding info and answering several of my questions, so I figured I’d post my predicament and ask for your sage advice. I recently acquired a 1984 Sunrader 18’ with the 4-cylinder 22R engine and a 4-speed manual transmission. The odometer reads about 191,xxx miles, tho I have a receipt that says the speedometer (which includes the odometer) was replaced in 1998 or so. The exhaust was completely replaced by the previous owner from the catalytic converter on back, and the carburetor is freshly rebuilt. Previously it had a leak in one of the window seals which led to rot in the cabin that led the previous owner to “gut” it. Basically, all the systems seem to be functional (tho I haven’t successfully tested them all yet), but the interior has just a rough wood floor, some new wood ceiling, and a lot of exposed fiberglass. The only interior features that seem to be original are the over-cab bed, bathroom, closet, fridge and paneling that holds it, the kitchen sink, stove/oven and the paneling that holds them. Also, I still have the cushions for the dinette, tho some of them could use new upholstery. I’m beginning to think I’ve gotten in over my head. So far, it seems the fresh water tank has a leak (see photo) but maybe the winterization valve is open? The fridge works on 12v, but I haven’t tested it on propane or AC. I haven’t yet managed to fire up the furnace, water pump, or hot water heater, tho I believe they’re fine. I’ve gotten water from the sink, the toilet flushes, and the shower runs but leaks near the knobs. However, the bathroom/shower floor doesn’t seem to be draining, tho the panel says the grey water tank is empty. The rear dually axle, wheels and tires seem to be great, and the front wheels and tires seems fine as well. There are three batteries under the hood. In addition to the usual 2, there’s a Harbor Freight Thunderbolt “Solar” batter mounted near the passenger corner which is attached to a weak solar panel on the roof via a questionable Harbor Freight solar charge regulator. Also, every morning there seems to be dampness under the cushions in the over-cab bed. Finally, there is no spare wheel/tire or jack. Oh, and have I mentioned that I’d need to install walls and insulation? Meanwhile, my own skill set is lacking: I’m a computer geek, not a handyman, tho I’d love to learn how to fix/build all these things. So, my question is: should I proceed with the renovation, and learning all the skills involved? Or should I sell it to someone who has the requisite skills and buy another Sunrader that’s closer to plug&play? One option I've found nearby is a 21' Sunrader that's pretty much ready to go but it has the fooly 5-lug rear axle. Thanks!

So the shower/floor drain on my Sunrader seems not to be draining. Worse yet, when I flush the toilet some yellow water comes up thru the drain. ? Does this mean that my shower is somehow connected to my black water tank, or that my toilet is connected to the grey water tank? Also, the panel says that grey water is only 1/4 full and black is empty. Your insight and guidance are greatly appreciated. Heck, even a snarky reply would be nice. ?

on Tuesday I'll be looking at a 1983 18' Sunrader. The owner will be selling it in a few months. He said it has 82000 miles and everything works except the fridg. l've been looking for a newer 6 cylinder toy but this one has come across my path. seems like a bargain at $3500. Besides checking: all the systems, rust, motor, upgraded axle, leaks etc. What questions should I ask and what issues with this year/model. thanks for the help!

Well, the project begins. Probably should have started when it would be warm a little longer but all this last week we've been pulling stuff out. So far we've taken 360 lbs worth to the dump with easily twice that much weight in the garage in more trash, appliances, and four deep cycle batteries. Not entirely sure where we're going with this but we've decided we'd like to start with a clean slate. From the pictures, you can see I've had a little help. I've gotten some more done but don't have pictures yet. We've got a bit of snow that's slowed the process a bit. I pulled the shower/bathroom stall out in one piece through the back window opening. I'm going to end up cutting it up to use to fill old window/accessory holes we're not going to use anymore. The tear down should go relatively quickly. It's the build back that's going to take forever.

Hello all, I am looking for some help in tire size for an 85 4x4 Sunrader. 15" rims all around. Can 235 75 15 fit. 225 75 15 on it now. I am having a hard time finding good weight ratings on 225 and I am hoping to find something in a all terrain. This is the best tire I can find, thoughts? Hankook DynaPro ATm Tire 235/75R15XL

Does anyone know where I can get one of the curved windows that were in the front of the Sunrader RVs? My right side broke when it got hit by debris during a windstorm. Thanks!

Greetings everyone, I just purchased a 86 Sunrader (21') and the front suspension is completely flat. I purchased a new prothane bushing (full) kit and new Blistein shocks for both front and back. But i can't seem to find anything about the actual springs. Can you purchase them? are they a complete pain to replace? I have heard people of taking them to a shop to be rearched / put in helper springs but i guess i'd rather have new ones put in if possible. I'm not above bringing it in but if i can do it myself i'd much rather do that. Thanks in advance!

Hey! I am traying to start up my furnace in my 1983 Sunrader for the first time ( My first time its the original suburban furnace ) Ive checked all my propane lines for leaks and have two full propane tanks. What I have done to try to start the furnace is obviously open propane tank, put the thermostat up to a higher temperature and flipped the little off switch to on position. What happens is i get a hum from the furnace... thats it. I do not feel any blowing air, hot or cold coming through the vents. Is there a problem or am I not using it right? Does the furnace need to be manually lit? What am I doing wrong? Thanks!

This camper is within driving distance of my home town, I'm considering purchasing. Can you tell me anything I should know or ask about before I do? What I know from a brief conversation and seeing it (didn't drive it) in person today: It's imported from Japan & listed as a 1991 Toyota Hilux Sunrader 4WD Diesel Camper Motorhome. $22,500 Price seems steep, where can I negotiate? Does anyone have insight on the imported models? If they are very rare, the 4x4 diesel?? Any concerns or things I should ask about the rear axel? I'm new to this, seems like a great community thanks in advance for any advice. : ) It seems overall pretty well equipped, most of the amenities are original (old) and the inside, although livable, needs some TLC (shower not working, no toilet.) Turned the motor over, it started right up and purred like a good little diesel should. Details: 2.7L DIESEL ENGINE / 4 WHEEL DRIVE / RIGHT HAND STEERING / LOW MILES / REAR DUALLY / 5 SPEED TRANSMISSION / FIBERGLASS CAMPER / TV / BACKUP CAMERA OVERHEAD BED / AWNING / SOLAR PANEL / LADDER & ROOF RACK / SPARE TIRE STAINLESS SINK / MICROWAVE / REFRIGERATOR / ALL THIS AND MORE!!! GENERAL Body type Truck Drive PART 4WD Transmission 5 speed manual Displacement, cc 2779 Frame S-LN106-TRMSS ENGINE Displacement, cc 2779 Engine model 3L Max.power (Net), kw(PS)/rpm 91 ps (66.93 kw) / 4000 rpm Max.torque(Net), N*m(kg*m)/rpm 19.2 kg*m (188.29 N*m) / 2400 rpm Power density 17.03 Engine type Water cooling serial 4 cylinder OHC Fuel system Bosch type distribution type (jet pump) Fuel type Diesel Compression ratio 22.2 Bore, mm 96 Stroke, mm 96 Final gear ratio Fuel consumption at 10-15 modes, l/100km Fuel consumption at 60 km/h, l/100km CHASSIS / TRANSMISSION Power steering Tires size, front 215R15-6 Tires size rear 215r15-6 Braking system, front Disk Braking system, rear Drum (leading/trailing) Suspension system, front Semi- elliptic leaf spring Suspension system, rear Semi- elliptic leaf spring

The short of it is, I just bought a 1981 Sunrader with the dreaded 5 lug bolted together dually rear axle and a broken clutch cable. The owner said the RV started acting weird so he parked it and after he saw online all of the horror stories about his axle he just assumed the axle was the problem and left it parked. So I'm not totally sure if the axle's bad or what but I figured it'd be smart to go ahead and upgrade it. And the clutch cable seems to have gone bad sense it's been sitting. Now, the plot thickens: I live in Roanoke Virginia and the RV is currently in Ohio, up near Youngstown/about an hour from Pittsburgh. My options seem to be: 1. Get the RV towed back home (400miles) and work on it myself. 2. Get it towed to a local shop in OH and be at the mercy of a mechanic that may be untrustworthy/knows I'm from out of town(also, I'm not sure if I would need to take it to just a regular auto repair shop or would it have to be a place that specializes in RVs, like with special lifts and things). 3. Throw that beautiful hail mary, fix the clutch cable myself then see if that axle has at least 400 miles left in it and attempt to drive it back home. My wife and I got it for next to nothing and that's the only reason I figured I had wiggle room to fool with the axle. I'm sure these are questions that have been asked a million times already, but I'm a total scrub when it comes to Toyotas. If I find a replacement rear axle assembly, what year ranges should I be looking for? Do any other rear axles work on these trucks other than the coveted full-float 6 lug? Could I get a more readily available rear assembly from a dodge/ford/chevy and mill a driveshaft adapter? (Only an idea because my uncle is a machinist) I found a rear assembly on craigslist in VA from a 6 lug 1984 4x4 truck, and for the price I'm wondering would something like that be heavy duty enough to take the place of the old/dually axle? This is the link: http://danville.craigslist.org/pts/5369577806.html I have lots of questions and I'd hate to over load everybody right off the bat, but I am just excited to get this thing home. I've been on the hunt for an 18ft Sunrader for 3 years now and this is also our first ever RV haha so thank you for your patience A little dirty but not in bad shape: Here's a shot of the rear end: And here's the hub:

I have an 87 Toyota Sunrader 4-cyl equipped with the factory optional cruise control. It works just fine except for the fact I can't set it for over 55mph. Was this how the factory delivered the cruise control due to the national speed limit being 55 mph? Does anyone know how to increase the max speed I can set it to? Any information/links would be appreciated.

How did I get so lucky? Doing a happy dance. New to me seats to replace the seats from hell. These came from a 2000 Mercedes Kompressor. The person I got them from has already modified them to bolt right into my Datsun/Nissan 720 that powers my Sunrader. Fully electric, fully adjustable and they are heated. Not a rip or tear on them, no worn areas on the leather either. The pair came with a center console box that is also ready to screw right into my truck. All this for ...hold onto your jaw...$50.00. I did have to battle I-5 traffic for the 4 hour round trip drive to fetch them home but it was so worth it . He also gave me (free) a really good battery that I will substitute for my worn out house battery. He was cleaning house from stuff that was for a project that went in a different direction when he discovered the bench seat in the 720 truck he bought to fix up for his son was welded in and therefore these seats were not going to work out for his project. I will get back to work tomorrow and finish up installing the new floor covering and its insulation padding in the cab. Then I can put the seats in and try them out! Too bad there is not enough room behind the seats to fully recline them. But with all that ability to fine tune the adjustment my bad back will be so much better off than in any other car I have owned. Well maybe it won't beat out my S10, I could drive a 14 hour day in those seats without pain.

Hello, My Sister in law just bought a 1981 Sunrader that has tandem axles and duals. I dont seem to find another like it on the web, It has the 22RE non turbo in it. I am guessing it is quite rare. Is there anything I need to know to help her with maintenance of it regarding the axles or floating axle system? CODY

I have a 1986 Sunrader automatic transmission with the column shift. The previous owner cut out the overdrive indicator light, cutting the wires leaving the 5 wire loom without the connector. It feels like the transmission is dogging, it is very sluggish. It is almost dead off the line. The motor is strong, but you have to floor it and it will go all the way up to 30+ mph before shifting. It feels like first gear doesn't exist. I have been searching for a replacement light but apparently Toyota discontinued it. I have been calling all kinds of salvage yards but no one has what I need. Does anyone know where I can get one? Do I even need it? I hear that the part flashes codes for the mechanics, but I've not sure if that is true. Any info would be very much appreciated. I am kind of stranded at the moment so if you have a lead on a part you can even call me at 757-693-1385. Thank you.