View Full Version : A 2004 Tacoma grows up
Desertdude
10-02-2005, 08:36 PM
Well it has been a fun journey - learning - reading - wheeling - meeting - and spending cash :D
I started with a new 2004 Tacoma with 50 miles - it now sports 50K
view various photos HERE (http://homepage.mac.com/desertdude/PhotoAlbum104.html)
I have installed over several months -Demello tube bumpers/sliders - Warn 9000xp winch - Amsteel synth rope - Alum fair-lead - Donahoe coil-overs - Deaver spring pack - Bilstein 5150 shocks - 255/85 R16 BFG MT/KO's - American Racing 797 Steel 16x8" wheels - Safari Snorkel - Engel 45 fridge/Freezer - Dual Optima Yellow tops - Hell Roaring battery switcher/isolator - 12-volt aux. plugs - Husky Liner mats - Line-x bed-liner - Custom tire/jack mount - Tent Rack - Maggolina Roof top tent - Nato water cans - Expedition Exchange nato can mounts -Garmin 276C GPS - XM SkiFi - iPod - Cobra 19dx CB
Next up - Helton Water heater/Shower ( on order) - Downey Aux. gas tank - Re -gearing front and back - ARB Locker up front - remote fridge temp gauge - Assorted clamp mounts on the tent rack - a few more recovery items - Spare parts - Rack behind the driver seat for electronics - bed drawer system ( maybe) ;)
http://idisk.mac.com/desertdude-Public/IMG_0809.jpg
Jonathan Hanson
10-02-2005, 09:21 PM
People on this site are producing the most impressive expedition-ready Tacomas I've ever seen. This is surely one of them.
DD, I must agree with John. "I'm not worthy" Your Taco is a really well thought out and super clean. Scott and you have set the Bar High for the rest of us. I hope to get myself there in the future. Like Harleys you can never finish with your mods. Tu Compa, Suty
Scenic WonderRunner
10-03-2005, 12:23 AM
Dude!.......SWEET!!!!
Very SWEET RIG Dude! :Wow1:
Great job! :cool:
Now excuse me while I go wype the drool off my face!!!!....hehe
Nullifier
10-03-2005, 12:32 AM
Really nice rig. I was just talking about a rack like that one on your bed. I want mine to come back all the way to the tail gate and have a canvas cover. I would also love a tent like yours. My challenge is that boating is such a big part of my existance I can't go with out my canoe.
Once again that is some great outfitting.
Desertdude
10-03-2005, 12:42 AM
Thanks guys!
Maggiolina makes a new model ( which I did not want to wait for) that is slightly higher by 2" and has rack mounts on top for such things - it is called the Grand Tour - autohome.us is importing as we speak and the container should arrive in Nov sometime.
The Airland tent ( you see above) will be discontinued and replaced with a less expensive model the Airlander - and the upgraded Grand Tour
I am desperately trying to keep my CG as low as I can - with the spare tire- water cans- and soon to be Aux Gas tank I should be back in balance.
After a short camping trip last weekend - the Maggiolina is a real high class way to sleep outdoors - the mattress it comes with and the pillows are first class comfort - The bedding all stays inside the shell- along with a few clothes - I can now enjoy a great nights sleep anywhere anytime.
The BN Guy
10-03-2005, 01:36 AM
Those are quite slick! Too bad we already have a decent tent and too bad we don't get to even use it enough.
BTW DD, your rig sure has come a long way! :ylsmoke:
bluerunner
10-03-2005, 11:11 PM
DD- very nice and very clean!
Very good design. :elkgrin:
BajaTaco
10-04-2005, 01:26 AM
Wow - I like all the new stuff since the last time I saw it! Very well rounded! I love those Maggiolinas - very cool.
FYI - it is my understanding that you can use a drill motor to make cranking the tent up as easy as pie - might be a cool trick for you since you probably have a drill motor in that toolbox pretty often ;)
Desertdude
10-04-2005, 02:27 AM
Thanks Chris ;) I am on the road more than I am home. The Tacoma has been a great asset to me
here's a funny story - I was at CSC trail clean up at Fossil Springs we we all hanging out and talking - I decided to offer a show and tell on the tent - the second I pulled out the crank - 12 guys said in unison -"you can hook that up to a battery drill" and they are saying this to a guy who builds for a living and has a Dewalt in his hands more than a fork :)
Moral of the story - I decided some things are left to the romance of a hand crank :sunflower
BajaTaco
10-04-2005, 02:33 AM
Moral of the story - I decided some things are left to the romance of a hand crank :sunflower
:jump: I should have known :) LOL!
Desertdude
10-04-2005, 02:35 AM
it was a "tool time" moment for sure :victory:
Thanks for checking in :wavey:
VikingVince
10-04-2005, 04:49 AM
DD,
Damn...that truck is lookin really cool...and all those great mods...we sure know how to spend our money, don't we? :Wow1:
I really like seeing the Maggiolina...I think you're the only dude on this forum or 4wdtrips that has one. I've liked them for years...
Funny hand crank story!!!...some things are just better done by hand (hehe)........
Desertdude
10-08-2005, 11:00 PM
Thanks VV - see you at pole 6 SnT
the Maggiolina tent will be in its element on the beach
Desertdude
10-08-2005, 11:03 PM
I am ordering up a pair of new 10 Leaf Deavers from Demello-offroad along with new U bolts - I hope to get those installed before the SnT trip next month - Then I will be able to complete the aux fuel tank and load it up anything I need in the bed and still have some flex
VikingVince
10-10-2005, 01:52 AM
Cool...I think you'll like the 10 leaf Deavers...I have them and they eliminated the sagging problem when fully loaded (which was pretty bad)...and I love the the way the whole suspension feels (like a new truck, compared with stock)...I had a real quick-fix, jerry-rigged rear suspension for about a year (which no serious offroader would do, but it was cheap, couple inches of lift, and NO sagging)...I just reversed the bottom overload spring, so instead of curling down at the ends, it curled up...but eventually it would have broken the other leafs...sure worked for a quickie tho...(which I always consider) :D
c ya at SnT :sunflower
Desertdude
10-10-2005, 01:55 AM
I have the 8 leafs and they have been great right up until the tent.... ;)
a quick change before SnT and I will be on my way to a full load :)
Desertdude
10-27-2005, 04:15 AM
I had been playing phone tag with Jason Demello on ordering the Deaver 10 leaf pack springs - and to my surprise Desertgirl had bought a pair for me and had them delivered to my project site in CA ( ain't I lucky)
I just installed them along with a new set of 5150 Bilsteins ( the jury is still out on this product) It was a smooth install came in under 2 hours without air tools- I am now nice and lifted even with all the extra added mods - I could easily load up all my gear and still have plenty of height - What a nice ride these are :victory:
http://idisk.mac.com/desertdude-Public/IMG_0050.jpg
http://idisk.mac.com/desertdude-Public/IMG_0052.jpg
Desertdude
10-27-2005, 04:22 AM
I start the Helton Hot water System (http://www.helton.com.au/hot%20water%20system.htm) install tomorrow if I collect all the right peripheral parts and all goes well...
Scott Brady
10-27-2005, 05:17 AM
Excellent progress amigo! The springs will smooth out a bit with some miles on them. With 600 lbs in the back, mine ride like a Caddy :beer:
Can't wait to see the hot water heater update :bowdown:
bluerunner
10-27-2005, 05:27 AM
Same here DD, very curious to see how you will route the hoses! :eatchicke
Desertdude
10-28-2005, 02:33 AM
Big challenge hear on the road to find stuff - I am all ways a moving target so having internet buys delivered to the right location can be tough.
I found some pre bent 90 degree 1/2 heater hoses at the local Napa store- I think my location is passenger side near the air box - so 90's off the helton then 90's off the heater hoses at the rear of the engine. I am thinking I will then bring the water I/O hoses ( 3/8's) towards the battery side then out near the front bumper. slap on a couple QD connections and test it out. I am hoping to get the last 90 degree hose tomorrow am- only three showed up today at the local napa ( sigh)
There is a valve to be placed in the system to adjust the hot water as well
hope to dial this in ASAP
Desertdude
10-28-2005, 02:36 AM
BTW - I had an extra 600 lb load ( concrete mix) in the Tacoma today and hit some rough back country roads - not a wimper out of the deaver 10 pack springs - almost negligable drop in lift - amazing! :jumping:
Scott Brady
10-28-2005, 04:28 AM
Awesome about the Deavers and hot water system. Cant wait to see it in action!
BajaTaco
10-28-2005, 04:50 AM
Cool updates. :cool: :ylsmoke: :cool:
Desertdude
10-30-2005, 03:44 AM
Thanks!
---------------------------
Update:
Had a chance today to install the Helton Hot water shower system - The hot water unit features a dual heat exchanger made with a double wound single length (4.6m) of copper coil with no internal joins. ( 4.6 meters = 181.102362 inches) amazing!
I still have some testing and tweaks to perform - I will relocate the bracket slightly when I install the aux. lighting system and the warn control box under the hood. I plan to install a 12v receptacle on the front of the truck for easy access
I ran the engine for less than 5 minutes and I had hot water - the shower head is very nice with a slide button for raising, lowering and shutting off the water. The pump comes with a waterproof I/O switch.
It is small, yet very powerful and quiet. I could see this pump pushing water well over thirty feet from a stream if needed. I plan on using a collapsible bucket or a portable water tank for now to see how it works for the long haul.
I have a P.E.T tent which will double as a shower in front of the truck
Check out all the photos HERE (http://homepage.mac.com/desertdude/PhotoAlbum105.html)
http://idisk.mac.com/desertdude-Public/IMG_0028.jpg
http://idisk.mac.com/desertdude-Public/IMG_0029.jpg
Scenic WonderRunner
10-30-2005, 03:58 AM
Dude!!!!!!!!!
Your Hot Water Shower System is just SO SCHNEBLY!!!!!!!!!!
Excellent Job!!!!!
Thanks for sharing!
Desertdude
10-30-2005, 04:02 AM
Thanks! SWR - it's all about the vortex, the stars, and the hot water- :wavey:
:campfire:
BajaTaco
10-30-2005, 05:04 AM
NICE!!!
Great write-up and pics! Very easy to see what is going on. I love it!
:jumping: :bowdown:
bluerunner
10-30-2005, 10:57 PM
Yup what they said!
DD- very clean and detailed.
Thanks! :eatchicke
Desertdude
10-30-2005, 11:12 PM
Thanks! I added a 12v marine grade outlet up front today :)
a few updated photos HERE (http://homepage.mac.com/desertdude/PhotoAlbum105.html)
see the shower pump water :clapsmile
BajaTaco
10-31-2005, 12:26 AM
Awesome dude. I love it.
And I dig how clean your engine bay is. Looks like I'm not the only one who cleans it up occasionally :ylsmoke:
Desertdude
10-31-2005, 12:34 AM
Thanks Chris !
I am a freak about a clean machine- after wheeling I usually get inside the engine and underneath the best I can - this way I like working on it as well as seeing if something needs attention...
BajaTaco
10-31-2005, 12:40 AM
I this way I like working on it as well as seeing if something needs attention...
Exactly! me too. Looks great, and I am definitely looking forward to seeing it soon.
Desertdude
11-23-2005, 01:01 AM
A 21 gallon water tank and a surflo 2.8 gal per min pump showed up today. My plan is to mount the tank under my aluminum storage box. I may strap it to a piece of ply wood then bolt the ply to the truck bed. I will then plumb the tank to a faucet in the back for drinking water - and I might even plumb the tank to the shower on the front of the truck.
I ordered an Aux gas tank kit from Downey off-road - it comes in a week or so, that should give me 15 more gallons of gas :)
I am designing a waterproof slide out drawer system, in the bed for lockable storage - then a few lights for fun!
More to follow soon!
BajaTaco
11-23-2005, 02:03 AM
NICE!!
Scott and I were discussing water storage not too long ago, and I suggested keeping the potable water storage separate from the shower/wash water. Often you will find sources for shower/wash water that you aren't that crazy about drinking. It's nice to be able to take advantage of these water sources whenever they become available on a trip, without having to be concerned with contaminating your potable water supply. So, if you do pipe it to the front for the shower, I would install a check valve, and a 3-way valve so you have the option of using potable or a bucket source. And you won't have the shower plumbing backing into the potable water, but you could still use the potable water to supply the shower when you want to. Make sense?
Good move on the Downey tank!
And I can't wait to see the storage system. :jumping:
Desertdude
11-23-2005, 02:48 AM
Yes , Desertgirl agrees and insists on the "keep it seperated" approach.
She figures it would be better to include this colapsible bucket we have for showers and using everyday water for it. Loading mostly filtered into the storage tank ( or filtering on the faucet end)...
Yeah - she's a keeper :jumping:
BajaTaco
11-23-2005, 02:52 AM
Yeah - she's a keeper :jumping:
:jumping: :victory: :jumping:
Desertdude
11-23-2005, 03:00 AM
I still like this option and may find the time to make it so ;)
I would install a check valve, and a 3-way valve so you have the option of using potable or a bucket source. And you won't have the shower plumbing backing into the potable water, but you could still use the potable water to supply the shower when you want to. Make sense?
Thanks for the water tips OBAJAWAN :bowdown:
Photos to follow
Scott Brady
11-24-2005, 02:43 AM
Pasquale,
I was thinking of your storage options... and what do you think of this?
http://www.tuffyproducts.com/trunk/063.html
http://www.tuffyproducts.com/images/trunk/063_detail.jpg
Sealed steel lockable storage. Just might work and would be a quick solution.
Desertdude
11-24-2005, 05:12 PM
Thanks for thinking of me Scott :wavey:
I have scoped out Tuffy and Truck Vault for solutions - they have many fine solid products. I was almost ready to place an order - then changed my mind. As a woodworker, I decided to build them for a couple reasons.
* custom sizing
* use my skills save a little cash
* add the savings to the Aux fuel tank ( read pricey tank)
I bought two pair of THESE (http://www.leevalley.com/hardware/page.aspx?c=2&p=46578&cat=3,43614,43616&ap=1)
I hope to build the boxes and drawers Approx 4' X 4' - then have the outside waterproofed with bed liner or something similar - add locks and handles - and a tailgate lock.
I will be burning the midnight oil to get things ready for Baja :campfire:
Scott Brady
11-26-2005, 01:41 AM
I will be burning the midnight oil to get things ready for Baja :campfire:
Me too brother... :camping:
Dont hesitate to give me a call if you get tight on time. I would be happy to help in any way I can.
blupaddler
11-26-2005, 04:41 AM
WHAT??? You guys have oil? :rolleyes:
The BN Guy
11-27-2005, 05:47 AM
Quick! Get some and make some gasoline out of it! ;) And share!
Desertdude
12-22-2005, 01:21 AM
Land at home base last Sunday - Approx. 5 days to get ready for the Baja trip - we are now deep into day three ( who needs sleep right?) here's what's been on the mod menu -
Aux gas tank - (Downey kit)- well maybe a kit...
Poly water storage tank - 12v pump - Faucet
Extreme aire compressor - ( ditch that heavy C02 tank in the garage)
Custom built bed box with (2) 20"X48" drawers lockable and waterproofed
Additional 12v outlets at the rear of the truck bed
Video camera mount inside - and occasionally outside.
Voltmeter and 3 way switch to monitor battery power
Mini Portable solar array - when we are parked for a day
Behind the driver seat storage - ( might be something soft)
Load vehicle with gear and test drive in the mountains
Load 60 gig ipod with music and movies
--------------------------
Aux tank is mounted - and yet to be fully tapped into the OEM tank
Drawer box built - and herculined
Poly tank mount built and installed
Pump and faucet installed and tested
Alfred hitchcock movies loaded in the iPod
Here are some photos of the progress so far
http://homepage.mac.com/desertdude/PhotoAlbum117.html
Scott Brady
12-22-2005, 02:00 AM
:ylsmoke: FREAKING SWEEET
Man, that is turning out so great. :)
I have been loading up the IPOD too. Endless tunes. :suning:
Desertdude
12-24-2005, 12:36 AM
OK here we are in the midnight hour for the Baja Expedition...:Wow1:
Water tank install and pump system tested out OK - Would like to at some point add a filter at the faucet - filling with clean filtered water is to manual for me :)
Aux gas tank full and no leaks ( good thing) forgot the ground wire on the pump - will add that in the am tomorrow and test it out. The hoses are kind klugy in the fitting sizes but it wll might work at least for this trip.
Extreme Aire 12v compressor installed - I used a 100 amp circuit breaker and a 12v solinoid relay for switching on - I also adde the flow through chuck so the compressor has no back pressure when it starts up. Mounted that where the old 40lb CO2 tank was less space, lighter, and endless air.
Tested out the folding Brunton solar array Solaris 25 Watts- it puts out 1.5A @ 15.4V - it was loading my battery while I was blasting XM on the Tacomas audio system - Very compact and slick - just in case :)
I have a tailgate lock install left - Test out some new gear ( stoves) then drive the very loaded Tacoma around town and see how it runs...
More photos HERE (http://homepage.mac.com/desertdude/PhotoAlbum118.html)
All most finished :luxhello:
http://idisk.mac.com/desertdude-Public/Tacoma.solar.array.jpg
flyingwil
12-24-2005, 11:17 PM
OK here we are in the midnight hour for the Baja Expedition...:Wow1:
Water tank install and pump system tested out OK - Would like to at some point add a filter at the faucet - filling with clean filtered water is to manual for me :)
Aux gas tank full and no leaks ( good thing) forgot the ground wire on the pump - will add that in the am tomorrow and test it out. The hoses are kind klugy in the fitting sizes but it wll might work at least for this trip.
Extreme Aire 12v compressor installed - I used a 100 amp circuit breaker and a 12v solinoid relay for switching on - I also adde the flow through chuck so the compressor has no back pressure when it starts up. Mounted that where the old 40lb CO2 tank was less space, lighter, and endless air.
Tested out the folding Brunton solar array Solaris 25 Watts- it puts out 1.5A @ 15.4V - it was loading my battery while I was blasting XM on the Tacomas audio system - Very compact and slick - just in case :)
I have a tailgate lock install left - Test out some new gear ( stoves) then drive the very loaded Tacoma around town and see how it runs...
More photos HERE (http://homepage.mac.com/desertdude/PhotoAlbum118.html)
All most finished :luxhello:
http://idisk.mac.com/desertdude-Public/Tacoma.solar.array.jpg
Man has your Taco Grown Up! I am so jealous!
:Wow1: :Wow1: :Wow1:
Looks great man... Hope it all works out for the best for you guys!
Wil
Mlachica
01-23-2006, 02:09 AM
Where'd you get the tailgate lock?
Desertdude
01-23-2006, 02:39 AM
I bought two heavy hasps from Ace hardware- Using a dremel tool - I removed a slot of metal where the tail gate edge closes and fastened the hasp end to the side with rivets - I then riveted the loop end of the hasp to the tailgate - I use two Masterlock water proof rubbber coated locks to secure the tailgate. This way the locks remain on the iside of the truck bed and do not rattle on the painted surface - and also keep the locks out of sight.
Mlachica
01-24-2006, 01:44 AM
ahhh i see:bowdown: those can be used in a lot of places!
p1michaud
02-01-2006, 09:23 PM
As a woodworker, I decided to build them for a couple reasons.
* custom sizing
* use my skills save a little cash
* add the savings to the Aux fuel tank ( read pricey tank)
I bought two pair of THESE (http://www.leevalley.com/hardware/page.aspx?c=2&p=46578&cat=3,43614,43616&ap=1)
I hope to build the boxes and drawers Approx 4' X 4' - then have the outside waterproofed with bed liner or something similar - add locks and handles - and a tailgate lock.
Desertdude,
Do you have an idea of the approximate weight of your storage boxes? I'm considering this route for mine and I really like the sketch (http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/showpost.php?p=44210&postcount=3) that BajaTaco had for a general arrangement of the bed of the truck.
Cheers :beer:,
P
Desertdude
02-02-2006, 10:07 PM
I used approx.(1) 4X8X3/4 & (1) 4X8X1/2 sheets of shop maple ply - 2 pairs of 36" drawer slides - 2 gate handles - and (2) quarts of Hurculiner. I am going to take a wild guess and say about 80-90 lbs total wieght- The drawers have now been Baja washboard tested and came out fine. :D
Desertdude,
Do you have an idea of the approximate weight of your storage boxes? I'm considering this route for mine and I really like the sketch (http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/showpost.php?p=44210&postcount=3) that BajaTaco had for a general arrangement of the bed of the truck.
Cheers :beer:,
P
p1michaud
02-03-2006, 12:20 AM
I used approx.(1) 4X8X3/4 & (1) 4X8X1/2 sheets of shop maple ply - 2 pairs of 36" drawer slides - 2 gate handles - and (2) quarts of Hurculiner. I am going to take a wild guess and say about 80-90 lbs total wieght- The drawers have now been Baja washboard tested and came out fine. :D
Thanks,
Nice to hear that they help up fine, but by the looks of them in the pictures I had not dought. :elkgrin:
Cheers :beer:,
P
Mlachica
04-18-2006, 02:32 AM
Aux gas tank full and no leaks ( good thing) forgot the ground wire on the pump - will add that in the am tomorrow and test it out. The hoses are kind klugy in the fitting sizes but it wll might work at least for this trip.
This afternoon I finally began the install of my downey aux tank (which has been sitting for 6 months :hehe: ) I've been dreading this one for some reason...I need anothers perspective. I've got it all mounted and all the hoses are hangin'. I just need to mount the fuel pump/filler neck and plumb it to the main tank. And the plumbing is different than what the tank was designed for so I'll have to improvise.
Anyhow, I was hoping you could answer a few questions...How/where did you mount the fuel pump? What kind of pump are you using? Did you use a selector valve to prevent siphoning? I bought one but am stumped as to where to mount it.
Any pictures, suggestions would help. :rolleyes:
Thank you:exclaim:
Desertdude
04-18-2006, 02:50 AM
I used the pump that came with the kit -IIRC it was a carter fuel pump I mounted it on one of the cross members up high I then ran the line into the filler tube ( I had to cut into one of the lines) I then had to decipher how to run the evaporator lines into a tee o the OEM line - it was not too easy to do - I lowered the OEM tank a bit to see the top of the tank and figure all the lines and where they all go - I can take a few photos tomorrow and post back
Scott had sent me a couple photos of his install which help me decipher the hoses - and I have a FSM which really helps too
Mlachica
04-18-2006, 02:58 AM
I used the pump that came with the kit -IIRC it was a carter fuel pump I mounted it on one of the cross members up high I then ran the line into the filler tube ( I had to cut into one of the lines) I then had to decipher how to run the evaporator lines into a tee o the OEM line - it was not too easy to do - I lowered the OEM tank a bit to see the top of the tank and figure all the lines and where they all go - I can take a few photos tomorrow and post back
Scott had sent me a couple photos of his install which help me decipher the hoses - and I have a FSM which really helps too
Thank you sir, I think the photos will help a lot!
Mlachica
04-19-2006, 03:15 AM
I then had to decipher how to run the evaporator lines into a tee o the OEM line - it was not too easy to do - I lowered the OEM tank a bit to see the top of the tank and figure all the lines and where they all go - I can take a few photos tomorrow and post back
Scott had sent me a couple photos of his install which help me decipher the hoses - and I have a FSM which really helps too
I got it all plumbed, I just need to wire the switch and bolt down the filler neck.
Instead of using a "T" I ended up running a hose from the evap line directly on the main tank to the aux tank then running the line from the aux tank rollover valve to the evap canister (whatever it's called) above the main tank. So it's kind of like running the aux tank in series with the evap line which normally ran from the evap canister to the top of the main tank. I called the manufacturer of the tank and they say it should work. We'll find out tomorrow when I wire it up and use it. Man, I'm crossing my fingers!
As for mounting the pump, I just drilled through the bed. I was trying to avoid put holes in my bed and from having bolt heads protruding from the bed floor but it'll all be covered with a storage deck/drawer system anyways...
p1michaud
04-19-2006, 11:28 PM
Desertdude and Mlachica,
It may be too late now since you are both nearly done the install by the sounds of things, but could you guys start a separate thread or add your information here (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=433) with regards to your aux tank installations, wiring, information...
I'm just catching bits and pieces from both of you and am very interested. To date I have not read a very comprehensive thread on aux. fuel tanks for the Tacoma except for what Scott has on his site (http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/tacoma/fuel_tank.html). Just a suggestion for the rest of us!
Cheers :beer:,
P
Scott Brady
09-08-2006, 08:56 PM
For the fans of the DUDE'S truck, check out the Nov. issue of Off-Road. :friday:
Desertdude
09-09-2006, 03:45 PM
Thanks a bunch Scott! I look forward to the article
After driving the 80 series up in AK - taking hiatus from the Tacoma - I have now been back in the Tacoma for nearly a month working and camping - I must say I still enjoy all that the Tacoma has to offer and the mods I did - it is well set up for expedition style camping :smiley_drive:
I am enjoying the differences in speed and handling between the two vehicles. I have decided to keep both trucks for their respective purposes - I will finish the 04 Tacoma mod list as time permits
short list left:
regear to 4:88
front ARB diff lock/oem switch
skid plate
HD rear shackles
Replace Bilstein 5150 rear shocks ( not sure with what brand/type yet)
Additional 12v shurflo pump for the helton shower set up
grp 31 battery up front to match the grp 31 in the aux position
new and more ergonomic seats
install complete floor in the xtra cab for new fridge mount and computer/gear storage
inverter install with outlets in the rear
more 12v outlets
undercarriage lighting
rear camera and in-cab monitor
in-cab winch control
new redesign of the tent rack (in the works now)
centrifugal snorkel pre filter
new/different brand tires & rims ( maybe alloy to lighten up)
possibly a new front bumper redesign/build
:Wow1:
Impressive list................but you forgot the kitdhen sink!:hehe:
Desertdude
09-11-2006, 09:19 PM
thanks for the reminder - I always had one in my mind to hang off the side bumper protection :sombrero:
TACODOC
11-07-2006, 03:07 AM
Dude, your setup truly rocks!!!
Any pics of this "new redesign of the tent rack (in the works now)"???
:drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool:
Desertdude
11-07-2006, 03:15 AM
Thanks Dave... I was slightly distracted with my M101 build ( which is complete and tested) Photos to follow in the trailer section
the new Tacoma rack tubes were bent by Brittan ( including the near famous "Brittan bend") and I am steadily :violent-smiley-031: working in the late night hours to put it together while I am in Northern CA
Stay tuned... :peepwall:
TACODOC
11-07-2006, 03:17 AM
Roger.
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.1.11 Copyright © 2012 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.