Why Are Ram's Not as Popular of a Choice for Pre-Runner/Baja Builds?

[TXPudge1868]

I've been a fan of Pre-Runner and Long Travel builds ever since I got my first truck (2014 Tundra SR5) back in spring 2014 when I spent countless hours reading through the TundraTalk forums, and I had an epiphany/random thought while scrolling through my Instagram feed the other day... Why are Ram's not near as popular of a choice for Pre-Runner builds compared to Toyota, Chevy/GMC, and even Ford?

I'd say I'm at an intermediate level of knowledge when it comes to parts/components across the major manufacturers, but is there an underlying reason that I'm unaware of for why you just don't see as many Ram Long Travel builds? I slightly remember reading about Ram's control arms and the differences between 09-12 vs. 13+, but I can't think of any particular reason why these trucks are just less popular amongst this type of community.

Don't get me wrong, I do love the classic square body look that you see on these Chevy and GMC Pre-Runner builds, but I'll always be biased to how damn good a well-done 1500 or 2500 Pre-Runner build looks (i.e. CJCOffroad on Instagram). I'd love to see what y'all's thoughts and opinions are, and I was hoping to learn some new things since it's a pipedream of mine to eventually turn my daily into a nice Pre-Runner style build within the next 3-5 years.

 

[Burla]

Too heavy, poor performing diffs and transfer case, dumb front end in the 1500 basically a useless metal rectangle with tires hanging off it, too long, long wheel base, etc. Once guys figured out the ttb with either upgraded pivot bushings or a SAS, bronco's rule the roost for full size, maybe cheating because most 4wd, but not all. Of course raptor took over when bronco disc. Toyota number one because so light simple and capable back in the day, I haven't seen a lot of chevy's either to be honest. But for me my dirt days was late 80's/90's. Of course except for sand jeep kills it for trail. Interesting conversation, will get a few differing opinions here.

 

[diymirage]

In short, rams are full sized work trucks and 4 runners are generally more Dakota territory trucks

 

[mikeru]

I can't speak to Toyota or Ford, or even older Dodge/Ram trucks. But as far as square body GM trucks go, solid front axles instead of IFS and leaf springs instead of coils could be just a couple reasons.