The term prerunner has been transformed over the years from one denoting a purpose-built vehicle used by an off-road racing team as a scout vehicle prior to running a race to a type of truck that typically has a set of fiberglass fenders installed and a modified suspension setup. In all actuality, a dedicated and true prerunner, with all the bells and whistles, can run upwards of $150,000. While we are not saying that if your version of a prerunner isn't this much money then it's not a prerunner, we are merely pointing out that there are several degrees to which a truck can be a prerunner. Aware of the fact that not many off-roaders will go to the level of expense and fabrication that some racers do with their prerunners, we would, however, like to present a few items that may increase your truck's performance, aesthetics, and creature comforts.
Currie Enterprises Extreme Duty Housing
Prerunning is not easy on any part of a vehicle, especially the rear axle. If you're in the market for a custom-fabricated, bulletproof differential housing, then look no further. The Extreme Duty housing contains a 26-inch center, 3-1/4-inch by 0.250-inch-wall DOM tubes, and 9-inch ends with custom-fit, rectangular flange-to-flange backbraces. A custom fill cap and drain plug are standard on this unit.
King Racing Prerunner Shocks
Look at almost any prerunner and you will most likely see a set of King's 2.5-inch-diameter prerunner racing shocks with reservoirs. The reason King shocks are some of the most widely used for prerunning applications is based largely on their billet, 6061-T6 machined aluminum construction, fully threaded, seamless steel cylinders, and large, 7/8-inch-diameter shafts that are hard chrome-plated for strength.
The externally mounted reservoir attaches to the shock body via an Aeroquip high-temperature hose and contains a high-temperature fluid for maximum viscosity. Best of all, each shock is completely rebuildable and revalvable for whatever type of terrain you come into contact with.
Walker Evans Beadlocked Wheel
These solid, one-piece, cast-aluminum beadlock wheels are as strong as the reputation of the man they are named for. With no welding used during their construction, the possibility of leaks is minimized. Each wheel is rated at 3,800 pounds and features Grade-8 hardware. The bolts thread into long steel inserts that are mounted securely into the wheel. The valve stems are moved back farther into the wheel, eliminating the possibility of being damaged while out on the trail.
The available sizes are as follows: 15x8 and 17x8.5 inches. Backspacing is cut to order, and all standard bolt patterns are available.
Toyo Open Country M/T
The aggressive off-road styling of the mud-terrain tire contains deep lug treads to meet challenging off-highway conditions while continuing to maximize traction. This tire is computer-enhanced to minimize road noise and optimize braking, steering, and acceleration. The sidewall lugs and tread pattern allow for excellent traction when reducing air pressure in the mud, sand, or gravel.
The available sizes are as follows: 35x12.50R18, 38x15.50R18, 35x13.50R15, 38x15.50R20, 40x15.50R22, and 37x13.50R22.