The 4Runner is now equipped with an RCI Pike front bumper, amber auxiliary lighting, and a Warn Zeon 10-S winch, all installed by Bullhide 4×4 in Fort Collins, Colorado. The setup uses the RCI Pike front bumper, Diode Dynamics Stage Series 6 SAE amber light bars, a Cali Raised Offroad Toyota OEM-style LED light bar switch, and a Baja Designs wiring harness for the lights. The winch system consists of a Warn Zeon 10-S winch, Warn Epic 10 fairlead, Warn remote control socket assembly, and a Factor 55 ProLink shackle mount on the synthetic line.
After the initial installation, a noticeable squeaking and creaking noise was heard from the front of the vehicle, most evident under initial acceleration and over small bumps. The noise could be reproduced with the vehicle parked by pulling up and pushing down on the bumper. Inspection showed a wear mark on a bumper-mounted bracket where it was contacting the winch housing.
A plastic body panel removal tool was used to separate the bracket and the winch at the contact point, which immediately eliminated the squeak when the bumper was moved by hand. The bracket is held in place by three 10 millimeter bolts that are somewhat difficult to access, but all were checked and confirmed to be tight.
To create a more permanent buffer, the bracket was carefully pried back just enough using an 18 inch steel pipe to allow a thick piece of rubber to be inserted between the bracket and the winch. Zip ties were added to help keep the rubber isolator in place. A subsequent test drive confirmed that the squeaking and creaking noise was gone.
This solution is expected to work well over the long term, although there is a possibility that the rubber may wear if there is continued movement between the parts. If that occurs, a more durable material such as an ABS plastic sheet may be used as a replacement. For now, the noise issue appears resolved. The winch hook has been installed and basic winch operation has been tested without any issues.
It is noteworthy how much cabin noise was generated by such a small amount of contact between the bracket and the winch housing. In a louder vehicle it might have gone unnoticed, but in this relatively quiet 4Runner interior it was immediately apparent.
Parts list
- RCI Pike Front Bumper | 25+ 4Runner
- Diode Dynamics Stage Series 6″ SAE Amber Classic Light Bar (pair)
- Cali Raised Toyota OEM Square Style LED Light Bar Switch CR2387
- Baja Designs Squadron/S2/S1 On/Off 2-Light Max (150 Watts) Wiring Harness – Universal
- Warn ZEON 10 Winch – 88990
- Warn Epic Hawse Fairlead 1″ Black – 100655
- Warn Winch Remote Control Socket Assembly – 98348
- Factor 55 ProLink 00015-01 shackle mount
