Stumptaco Expedition Vehicle Build-Up [Archive]

StumpXJ

04-28-2007, 08:38 PM

Since everyone else has one, I figured why not start my own....

I just (today) got finished with my custom made rear bumper with swing out gate, so I will post it up first.

I went with the Demello styling as it seemd the easiest to do. I had originally planned to copy Chris's "Baja Taco" bumper (thanks for the info Chris!!), but decided that adding the swing out gate would be easier and possibly stronger without making a tube bumper. I also dont have easy access to a bender right now (We actually have 2 benders, one hydraulic and one manual, but both are in the States at my fathers fabrication shop.) This design let me do fairly close to what I wanted, so I went with it. Ill qoute Chris and say that it was defintely "organic" as I just kind of built as I went. I snagged a OEM Chevy Blazer swing out gate and latch assembly from the Junk Yard that we have here on the military base. I used it as platform, but modified it to suit my needs.

I still have to add, (2) shackle mounts that my father is CNC'ing for me and should be ready next week. And also an integrated reciever hitch. Living in Europe, I havent been able to find any steel tubing with the inside demensions of 2"X2", Ive found some stuff that is slightly bigger and slightly smaller though, but pops is sending me a chunk of that also.

I spent a total of $167.00, including the two new Jerry Cans, paint, material(steel, wire for welder, sanding discs, cut off wheels etc), the gate assembly from the junk yard (10 bucks, I pulled it) and about 3 evenings (one entire evening was spent bead blasting the gate, and sanding) and all day today to do it.

I wont bore you guys with to many actual building pictures, as I hope the final outcome speaks for itself. Im happy with it!

My very next modification will HAVE to be upgrading suspension. I have added a sleeper platform, fiberglass ARE shell, custom roof rack, this new "tank" of a bumper, and I also have a new 16 gallon water storage tank/hot shower system that is going where the spare used to be. My Stock leaf springs are SCREAMING as I type this. I think with the afore mentioned items, this truck is ready for a 10 pack deaver set-up and some 2.5 SAW's, anybody feel like donating?? :) I just have to figure out to get them shipped to my APO military address....

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0206.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0208.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0215.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0216.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0218.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0220.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0222.jpg
Tag mount, 1 stock oem taco tag light, and my rear camera

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0225.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0224.jpg

StumpXJ

04-28-2007, 08:39 PM

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0229.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0231.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0240.jpg

Let me know what you guys think? I will conitinue with my other mods on another post....

flyingwil

04-28-2007, 08:45 PM

Let me know what you guys think? I will conitinue with my other mods on another post....

Nice rear :shakin: :exclaim:

How did you get a Taco in Germany? I thought they were all Hilux's over there?

StumpXJ

04-28-2007, 08:57 PM

Ive already posted this once, but would like to keep everything in one thread, so here is most of the info copy and pasted from the original.

"When I got my Tacoma about 8 months ago, I couldnt decide what I wanted to do to it first... Rear Bumper, Front bumper/winch, sliders, roof rack... and like most, the list is a mile long.

I decided that the roof rack would be the best place to start, followed quickly by a rear bumper with an integrated spare tire swing out gate.

Here is my progress with the roof rack so far. I have $90 dollars in material (excluding lights), and I should have everything I need. Not bad considering the price of a manufactured unit is rediculous. I have spent the last two evenings (about 12 hours total) and I think its turned out well so far. I still have to do the following:

Make mounts for 2 rear lights and mount them.

Make lockable side mounts for my Shovel, Axe, and Hi-lift.

Make mounts to mount it on my camper shell with internal reinforcements for weight capacity.

Paint it.

And finally mount it and wire the lights.

The lights are cheap'os from ebay, atleast they have a H3 bulbs that are easily changeable, instead of a sealed beam. I paid a $90 bucks for 8 of them and figure I wont be out much if they are total crap. I love to replace all 8 of them with Light Force lights, but would have to rob the local bank to do so. Time will tell if they perform well enough. I also plan to mount the extra two lights on the front bumper when it eventually gets built."

The demensions are 7inches deep in the basket, from the top rail to the top of the bottom rail (about12 inches over all height at the top of the light hoop, no more parking garages for me!), 60 inches long overall (on the bottom, including the light shelf) 52 inches in length inside the basket, and 46 inches wide.

I used 1 inch square tubing, .090 thou. wall. The light protection hoop is 1/2 inch round bar, I made it a little high, incase I wanted to eventually go with larger lights.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0093.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0094.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0100.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0095-1.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0099-2.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0097-1.jpg

StumpXJ

04-28-2007, 09:01 PM

Hi Wil , I bought it from my neighbor here in Germany. He is also American and shipped it over from the States when he came here. He ended up with like 4 vehicles, so I sold my little old porsche, and snagged the yota from him. I havent looked back since! He is hating life when he drives by and sees me working on it.... :)

We are in the Kaiserslautern area of Germany with the US Military (civilian) and there are over 100,000 Americans here. Its the largest population of Americans outside of the US so these Tacomas are everywhere...

StumpXJ

04-28-2007, 09:10 PM

Just a quick but cool little mod. I needed a place to put some switches for my upcoming mods, so I decided to pull out the old OEM 3 disck changer as it doesnt work without the OEM radio. (I still have it if anyone has an OEM radio and wants it? FREE!) I made a plate out of some thin aluminum channel I found at the local German hardware store. The pics are pretty self explanatory.

As you will see at the bottom, I had to move it up on the dash as I installed a DVD player to go with my camera system. I made a housing that fits nicely on the dash out of wood and painted it. It actaully works better as I can use the switches without taking my eyes off the road, and without bending down.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0080.jpg
Gotta get rid of the non-working 3 disk OEM changer....

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0084.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0087.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0086.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0089.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0104-1.jpg

I had to end up moving the switch panel up on the dash as I installed a din sized DVD player in the old spot. I figured when im camping alone, I might as well watch a good movie... Thanks to the color monitor for my camera system, its easy!
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0198.jpg

StumpXJ

04-28-2007, 09:22 PM

Last entry for the night. Again, I dont have alot of actual building pictures, but mostly pics of it as its almost finished. Its VERY similar to what Baja Taco's bed is. The under frame work is almost identical. We bought a Serta 4inch "Memory Foam" mattress for it and it is UBER nice. I use 2 of the Sylvania "Dot-It" lights on the inside for lighting. I want to get another 7 inch color monitor and mount it on the ceiling of the shell so we/I can watch movies while camping if the weather sucks....lol Might as well stay home right? :lurk:

I WISH I HAD WINDOORS!!!! :drool:

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/camperbed2.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/camperbed1.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/camperbed3.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/camperbed4.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/camperbed6.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/camperbed8.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/camperbed7.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/camperbed5.jpg

StumpXJ

04-28-2007, 09:26 PM

I thought this was pretty cool when digging through my pictures... Its a good comparison of how it was when i got the truck and how it is in its current state. Unfortunately, it also shows just how much the rear is sagging now! I need Deavers bad....

Before...

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/megandgabebeforediets070.jpg

After....

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0240.jpg

I like it!

~James

Ridgewalker

04-28-2007, 10:04 PM

Your Taco is looking really good. Obviously your dad did a good job teaching you metal work.
May I make one suggestion though on your roof rack where it attaches to the cap. You need more than just one bolt at each connection if you are going to put much of a load on it. I would suggest at least 2 bolts through each leg, or better yet add 2 more legs to each side to help distribute the load. Also be sure to add large washers with rubber washers adjacent to the fiberglass surface. One problem with plastics (as fiberglass is) is they have a different thermal expansion than metal (rack, bolts, washers, etc.) To help prevent the metal parts from cracking the fiberglass, you should consider adding the rubber washers and help spread the load out with metal washers (fender washers are designed for this). Just a suggestion.
Looking good!:clapsmile

StumpXJ

04-28-2007, 10:28 PM

It is suprising to me at just how secure it is in its current state with the 1/2 inch bolts. The fiberglass on those corners is a full 3/8" thick, which supprised me as well. I was up there walking around on it just a couple days ago without any movement or problems. I weigh 304 pounds (as of this morning :eatchicke ), and I had my spare tire in my hands (65-75 lbs?) so it was close to 400 pounds with out any problem. I think with that being said it is plenty "strong" enough. I agree with you about the rubber washers, thats a great idea. I have large fender washers on the inside, but didnt want to put them on the outside (not sure why? I could have painted them as well....still may do this). The legs are "capped" on the back side so, the load on the outside portion is somewhat spread out, as apposed to just having the "edges" of the tubing resting on the fiberglass. I should have used some flat steel and made it in a "T" shape at the bottom of the leg, that would have allowed me to easily use two bolts per leg and would have distributed the force better.... you know what they say about hind sight :)

I had initially planned on building an internal cage for supporting the rack, but got lazy, especially after seeing how well it works without anything.

Thanks for the suggestions! I will have to scout around for some large rubber washers, I like that idea...

This is the old diagram I did, I was going to do this, but thinking I may leave it as is for now. The rack has been up there for a couple months now with a few wheeling trips and no signs of cracking gelcoat or spidering.
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/internalshellframe.jpg

DaktariEd

04-28-2007, 10:39 PM

Really, really nice build!
I am envious of your fabricating skills...great work!

:sombrero:

kcowyo

04-28-2007, 10:44 PM

Very nice! :clapsmile

erod

04-29-2007, 12:04 AM

VERY Impressive! Nice work, thanks for the pics!

jim65wagon

04-29-2007, 12:23 AM

Nice rear :shakin: :exclaim:

Nice rack too!:088:

p1michaud

04-29-2007, 11:38 AM

Wow,
That bumper came out real nice. Your truck is coming together and you have some great fabrication skills.

Out of curriosity, what size tires are you running?

Cheers :beer:,
P

StumpXJ

04-29-2007, 08:06 PM

Thanks for the compliments guys, I appreciate them.

The tires are Cooper STT's and are 31 X 10.50 15's With my stock tall gearing (like 3.50 something), 4 cylinder, and the newly added weight, I will be regearing shortly after the suspension upgrades, as currently it.....well, it sucks. :eek:

I just (today) got back from a 410 mile round trip to Stuttgart, Germany for a boat race, and managed to not visit a gas station at all. It sure is nice to be able to carry extra fuel with the Jerry Cans.

However, also on this trip I confirmed my worries about the suspension, the ride now is total crap as expected. The stock leafs are not arched anymore and I even felt the bump stops a few times on the Autobahn after hitting larger dips. Will begin my shopping for the deavers next week.

Does anyone know how much a Deaver 10 pack weighs? Per spring or together. I need to be able to have these shipped via US postal service, but there wieght limit is 70 pounds... I may be pushing it with the springs.

~James

BajaTaco

05-17-2007, 05:45 AM

James, so sorry I missed this one earlier. The truck is looking uber COOL!! Wow, that bumper and rack really came out nice, and out of pocket costs are quite admirable! Good job :bowdown:

Good luck with the springs, I don't recall what they weigh. You'll definitely be happy when you get the suspension dialed in.

StumpXJ

05-17-2007, 08:43 AM

Thanks Chris, yeah the suspension really sucks right now.... Im looking forward to getting it hooked up properly.

I tried to do a little offroading yesterday, and came up on a rather large log crossing, it was brutal with the state of my suspension to say the least.

ArchaeoTaco

05-17-2007, 05:16 PM

I'm late to this, too, but great job on your modifications! You've got serious skills! A rear bumper like that for under $200? Amazing...

DaveInDenver

05-17-2007, 05:25 PM

Does anyone know how much a Deaver 10 pack weighs? Per spring or together. I need to be able to have these shipped via US postal service, but there wieght limit is 70 pounds... I may be pushing it with the springs.

My guess is that individually a spring pack might come in under the 70 lbs limit, but a pair of springs is going to break the scale. So is it cheaper to figure out a way to ship one really heavy thing or two slightly less heavy things? But IIRC you would be using APO/FPO, so maybe it doesn't matter as long it's under the weight limit. In that case, shipped individually as two spring packs, it might work.

Truck is looking good.

Willman

05-18-2007, 12:44 AM

This is the old diagram I did, I was going to do this, but thinking I may leave it as is for now. The rack has been up there for a couple months now with a few wheeling trips and no signs of cracking gelcoat or spidering.
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/internalshellframe.jpg

Keep us posted on this!..I know of a few guys including myself that need to do the support cage to our shells as well!

Great rig buildup and would love to see some pictures of the cage shell support when done.

:chowtime:

Martinjmpr

05-18-2007, 04:27 PM

That's exactly what my Taco would look like if I had an endless supply of (a) money and (b) patience.

I also envy you your green paint! The closest I can get is my forest green shell.

BTW, I'm surprised you don't have US forces license plates? I thought the DoD civilians and contractors got those, too?

StumpXJ

11-25-2007, 11:51 AM

Been a while since ive posted in here, just thought I would post some pictures of our wheeling trip yesterday. A friend of mine and our wives went out to an offroad park around the Nuerburgring in Germany. It was a good day, and nothing broke. We had a chance to stop by the ring to check out some of the cars that were making hotlaps.

I finished up my front bumper, for the most part. Got my winch mounted, suspension lifted finally and a few other things. I am currently in the process of making my sliders, and then I will post up some pics of the latest progress.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e144/woodlogan/Eisenoffroad/DSC00734Medium.jpg

My buddy Logan's truck with a gnarly section of the Nuerburgring behind it.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e144/woodlogan/Eisenoffroad/DSC00699Medium.jpg

Lunch Time!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e144/woodlogan/Eisenoffroad/DSC00722Medium.jpg

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e144/woodlogan/Eisenoffroad/DSC00719Medium.jpg

High centered???

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e144/woodlogan/Eisenoffroad/DSC00707Medium.jpg

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e144/woodlogan/Eisenoffroad/DSC00710Medium.jpg

Couple videos, the first is of my buddy Logans truck, 05 taco. His wife is driving for the first half of the vid.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_t0JuVhU-wg

This is of my truck, doing a fairly tough section of deep holes, as usual this does not do it proper justice. I honestly went into this with the intentions of testing out my new winch. I fully did not expect to make it out at the end. There is a 4 foot vertical wall to get out of the hole...

This with an open front a rear diff.... no lockers here! Tacoms are awesome!

http://s139.photobucket.com/albums/q282/nw413/?action=view&current=Default-1.flv

This was also my wifes first trip doing any real offroading and she had a freakin blast. I let here drive quite a bit, and she did very well. She cant wait to go back...., how sweet is that??

~James

Jacket

11-25-2007, 04:38 PM

What? No jumping pictures of Logan???:shakin: (unless its in the video; I couldn't get it to load).

Still love that rear bumper of yours. Very nice design!

StumpXJ

11-25-2007, 05:05 PM

Yep, Logan jumped a few times in the video. He has it posted on TTORA also. The German guy that runs the place decided to take a ride with him in the truck when he jumped it.... funny stuff. That guy didnt know what he was getting into.

Logan's truck is pretty darn tough, I have seen him do stuff to it that should have had broken peices as the end result, but it just keeps going and going. His suspension is burly.

Thanks for the bumper compliment, it has proven to be a very good design ove the past year or so.

~James

Overland Hadley

11-25-2007, 05:12 PM

Hi! Nice looking truck. Funny thing is that last week I randomly came across your videos on youtube. Watched them a couple times and had a good laugh at the jumping. Opened your thread and thought man those trucks look familiar.

Good to see the pictures of the sleeping platform. I am currently working on mine, have a pile of wood in the shop, but the four drawers are finished.

Great photo of the truck next to the Nuerburgring.

StumpXJ

11-25-2007, 05:22 PM

Sleeping platform has been a great mod. We have used it a few times and its very comfy and easy to set-up camp. No more tents for me... unless its a rooftop...

Nuerburgring is awesome, I have to drive around it atleast once before we leave Germany. It was weird being at the track that i raced for years and years on Gran Turismo / PS2 :D

~James

Arivalsend

12-06-2007, 12:41 AM

Hey Stump looks like a great work in progress. I am currently working on a platform for a 99 Tacoma TRD ex cab. It has a standard topper and I am setting it up for overland travel down in South America. So far I can suspension in the works and a few small engine mods. Hoping a local fab guy will build me some bumpers to replace my toyota tupperware ones. But anyways I was curious about a couple things. What did you use to frame out your sleeping platform? Looks like some type of aluminum trim? Makes for very clean and well laid out bed access points. Also where did you source the pistons you used on your cubby doors? Thanks in advance my platform is still in the planning stages. I have checked out Baja Taco's and it really looks like a good setup. But those guys are the pros!:suning:

StumpXJ

12-06-2007, 01:59 PM

Hi Arivalsend! I used thin aluminum angle peices that I found at the local "Baumarkt" (like a home improvement center). I just took my time and cut them to fit the outer edges of the cargo areas. It also helps to hold down the carpet. Its worked great so far, the platform has been in the truck for over a year now I guess...

I got the Struts (or pistons as you call them) from the same baumarkt. They are used to hold open cabinet doors in houses, and it work great for my needs too. They are not actually charged with gas like most struts, they are spring loaded, and they get tight at the end of their travel to hold up the door. They are also adjustable on how much "tightness" they have, depending on how heavy the door is. Really cool little peices, and they are only like 10-12 euros.

Thanks, James

Arivalsend

12-07-2007, 09:32 PM

Thanks for the information James. I am really enjoying watching your build and will be sure to check into finding that aluminum trim/struts.

cheers

Lucas

StumpXJ

12-13-2007, 02:45 PM

Got a chance to use the bender last night and bend up some tubing for my sliders. I took a couple hours today and got everything cut, notched and welded up. Just have to get the legs finished, everything tacked to the truck, then tack up my side/quarter panel protectors. They are also in the picture. Obviously they will not be as tall as they currecntly are, just wanted to leave some extra material so I could position it how I wanted. Stay tuned, I will get them finished up soon.

I cant believe how much money people pay for these things, they are dead easy to make. Just need a little time, little elbow grease, little knowledge and a few tools. (ok, that sounds like a lot when I write it out, but they are pretty easy to do....)

~James :D

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100160.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100159.jpg

p1michaud

12-13-2007, 02:53 PM

Got a chance to use the bender last night and bend up some tubing for my sliders.

Will you be welding them or bolting them to your frame? My vote is for bolting them for reasons discussed here (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=65692&postcount=48).

You can see some pictures here (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=66955&postcount=7) of the sliders I made that bolt on.

Cheers :beer:,
P

DaveInDenver

12-13-2007, 03:06 PM

I cant believe how much money people pay for these things, they are dead easy to make. Just need a little time, little elbow grease, little knowledge and a few tools. (ok, that sounds like a lot when I write it out, but they are pretty easy to do....)
Yeah, probably easy to do if you have a shop with a welder, tubing bender, chop saw, steel and a work table. No biggie, eh?

StumpXJ

12-13-2007, 03:46 PM

Yeah, probably easy to do if you have a shop with a welder, tubing bender, chop saw, steel and a work table. No biggie, eh?

Exactly!

The only thing on that list that I have is a welder and steel. Over here in Germany anyway. Just have to get creative.

~James

PS, they will be welded on.

DaveInDenver

12-13-2007, 04:00 PM

The only thing on that list that I have is a welder and steel.
How are you doing the bends? They look nice.

A welder is something I've wanted for gotta be 10 years now. Just no budget or place to put it. I have a garage finally, but it's serviced by a single 15A circuit (our house was built in 1920 and the detached garage was wired for a light sometime in the 1940s, just been too swamped doing stuff on the house to worry about the outbuild) and as it is I have to turn the lights off when I run the compressor! Some day, some day...

StumpXJ

12-13-2007, 06:43 PM

I just go to the local Auto shop. They have a cheapo style bender that is supposed to be used for schedule 40 pipe, but the tubing I have is 1 5/8" diameter so it fits perfect in the 1 1/4" schedule 40 die. (Didnt really plan this, I just got lucky) Its a hand pump deal, but it works flawlessly. Just have to have some patience with it. It doesnt kink or dent the steel at all, I was pleasantly suprised at the results.

I have a little $300 wire welder that works on a 110 outlet. I have used it to build everything on my truck. It works great, again, just have to go a little slow with it. I use a side grinder with $2 cutoff wheels, and borrowed a friends 70 dollar notcher. If I were doing this for a living, I would certainly have to do some upgrading on tools, but for what I have done so far, its completely doable.

Atleast you have a compressor! I had to leave mine in the states as it was too heavy/big to ship over...lol. I searched for over a year before I found the bender, but now its a peice of cake. They charge me 2 bucks an hour to use it...lol. I think we are the only ones who use it, as we have to dig it out of the corner everytime we need it.

I know how you feel, dont worry!

~James

StumpXJ

12-17-2007, 07:19 PM

Well, I havent finished the sliders yet, but Santa did come by and drop this off.

Sweet! Wife says just 8 more days till I can put it on....:(

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100161.jpg

~James

Overland Hadley

12-18-2007, 01:49 AM

Nice!

That is a great box to get.

StumpXJ

12-26-2007, 08:08 PM

Well, I finally got a chance today to get a little work done. I got the snorkel mounted, and it was a pain in the a** to do it in the snow... My truck wont fit in the garage anymore :( I was determined to get it mounted today though :)

I also got a scan guage from Santa, so I had to make a new dash housing for it and my switches. I will get the housing mounted back on the dash tommorow, ran out of daylight today.

Oh yeah, its freekin cold here!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100174.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100173.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100172.jpg

My new dash housing, made out of 1/4" delrin plate I had laying around. Used my little manual Milling maching to make it nice and neat.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100183.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100182.jpg

My old dash housing, just for the switches. The new one should fit/look a little better. I took my time with the new one.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0198.jpg

Still havent finished my sliders...:( We are having a wrench-a-thon with a couple guys at my house in a little over a wek, so they will probably get finished then.

~James

Overland Hadley

12-26-2007, 08:16 PM

Looks good.

Any worries about the snorkel filling with snow? When we get a big storm here snow gets into everything. It is something I just thought of.

StumpXJ

12-26-2007, 08:31 PM

Not sure honestly... :eek: I hope not. I could turn the hat around if I need to, its just a matter of losening the hose clamp. It wont fill with snow/rain if its just sitting there due to the way its constructed, but if im driving in a snow storm, it might get a little in it. As long as it doesnt pack up in the opening and clog it, I think it would be fine.

~James

StumpXJ

12-26-2007, 08:41 PM

Also forgot to mention, I finally saved up a few bucks and got some real lights. I ordered 4 Hella 4000's, and also 4 HID conversion kits for them. I got the HID conversion kits in the other day, but the lights have not come yet. It will be nice to replace the Ebay el-cheapos on the roof rack with some real lights. I will eventually put two more HID converted 4000's on the front bumper also, just have to pace myself so as to not cause wallet shrinkage :D

I would have loved to have used Light Force 240's for all 6 lights, but I just could not justify the cost of those puppies. They are nice lights, but dang... they are proud of them! I think with the HID converted 4000's, I should be set for a while.

~James

StumpXJ

12-27-2007, 08:38 AM

Had a chance this morning to get the new housing mounted on the dash and everything wired. The scan guage is awesome thus far, took a short cruise around the block just to see it work, and I cant wait to start dialing it in...

Im pretty happy with the way it turned out!

Old Dash Housing:
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0198.jpg

New Dash Housing:
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100191.jpg

I almost forgot... got these with a couple items my wife got me. These are the 8psi boost version, the throttle response from these stickers is phenominal! :D

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100192.jpg

~James

p1michaud

12-27-2007, 12:27 PM

Well, I finally got a chance today to get a little work done. I got the snorkel mounted, and it was a pain in the a** to do it in the snow... My truck wont fit in the garage anymore :( I was determined to get it mounted today though :) ...

My new dash housing, made out of 1/4" delrin plate I had laying around. Used my little manual Milling maching to make it nice and neat.

Wow you rig is really coming together! I really like your dash housing for the switches very well though out!

Cheers,
P

p1michaud

12-27-2007, 12:28 PM

StumpXJ

12-27-2007, 02:45 PM

Thanks P1! Good to know about the snorkel, I hadnt really thought about it... We dont get a ton of snow here anyway...:(

PS, I saw you 'cheesin' it up in the latest edition of 4X4 Toyota Owners Mag. Good stuff!!

~James

kcowyo

12-27-2007, 03:48 PM

New Dash Housing:
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100191.jpg

Very nice! :clapsmile

Do you have to use premium fuel with those SE stickers?

StumpXJ

12-27-2007, 03:58 PM

Nah.... I have to run 116 octane race gas now, the detonation was intense after the initial install of the window stickers. Its totally worth it though. They also gave me 6 more inches of flex in the scary stuff... Why spend thousands on a solid axle swap when you can get these stickers for FREE?

:jumping:

Thanks!

~James

StumpXJ

01-10-2008, 02:52 PM

I was beginning to wonder if I had gotten screwed out of my money when I ordered these 5 weeks ago, but they finally showed up! (2) Hella 4000 Euro Driving lights, and (2) Hella 4000 Pencil Beams. I also got the HID conversion kits for them in the background... I just have to figure out where to mount the ballast boxes, as these are going to replace the Ebay Junk lights that are on my roof rack. Should have sufficient lighting soon, these things are HUGE! :D

Still havent gotten the sliders mounted, or my shower system installed. I am officially not starting any more projects until these are finished! More pictures during the weekend install.

PS, never mind the junk in the background, believe it or not, I work on and sell radio controlled boats for a living. :D

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100213.jpg

~James

StumpXJ

01-12-2008, 08:55 AM

Ok, well I burned the midnight oil on Friday night to get these things mounted and re-wire my entire rack/lighting system. I started on the project at about 3:30pm, and walked in the house with the project completed at 1:15am. Total cost for the lights were $430.00 shipped (ebay), and the HID kits (ebay) were $160.00 shipped, for a total of $590.00 dollars, and about 10 hours of labor, I now have a badass lighting system that I could not be happier with!

After my installation was mostly complete, I took the truck up to the top of the mountain just to see what they would do, and honestly I never thought they could be as bright as they are. They were not aimed yet, so the patterns were all over the place, but I swear it was like driving in broad daylight.

Jump forward to this morning, and I got the preliminary aiming done, using my garage door as a guide, and a good guess from last night. I will take the truck out tonight to see how the aiming actually faired, and will get some "lit up" shots then.

Thanks to the guys at TTORA for giving me the idea to convert them straightaway to HID, I HIGHLY recommend anyone who is not happy with their light output to convert your auxillary lighting as soon as you can. The difference is un-describable!

Here are the pics...

Here you can see the boxes that I had to make to hold/protect the HID ballast (or whatever you call them) boxes and wiring. These lights barely fit in my cage, but they look much better than the el cheapo ebay lights I had on there before. The boxes are just plast bins from the local hardware store, and each one is held on to the mounted base with 4 screws. The boxes are packed in foam, and are fairly water/element proof. (yes, I am standing my 300 pound *** on my roof rack, with no trouble!)

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100215.jpg

Preliminary aiming this morning. The 2 pencil beams are mounted in the center, with the 2 Euro driving beams mounted on the outside. I figured this would be the best arrangement...? (below the HID light beams you can see my yellow factory high beams.... how sad is that!)

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100216.jpg

Couple poser shots from this morning with the rock covers on. I also put on my new TTORA stickers..:)

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100218.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100219.jpg

Without the covers on. (yeah, its a lot of pics, but I am proud of them)

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100221.jpg

This is with the "euro" light lit up. They will be on while the normal headlights and or parking lights are on. I know this is legal in Germany, but not sure about the states. All of the big truckers have them on their rigs, and they look cool as hell coming down the road. I have the driving beams (outer lights) hooked up to come on with my trucks high beams, and the Pencil beams (inner lights) are on a switch mounted on my dash.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100222.jpg

StumpXJ

01-12-2008, 08:57 AM

This is with everything on, including the high beams from my truck. This is 11:00 am in the morning, broad daylight.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100223.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100225.jpg

TTORA rear stickers.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100226.jpg

Here is a before and after shot, I like it!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0233.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100218.jpg

StumpXJ

01-12-2008, 09:27 PM

Well, a few last pictures of the lights in action. This is on the same hill from earlier today. I still need to do some adjusting as the beams are still not quite where I want them, but they are much better than before. With beams this bright, 1mm of adjustment is like 50 feet at the end of the pattern. The only real way to do it is in the dark, which will happen tommorow night.

These are both taken from inside the cab of the truck. The tree line in the far distance is .47 miles from this spot in a direct line. As you can see, if I pointed the pencil beams up more, I am fairly certain I can direct UFO's to safely land in the fields around our house. :)

With my regular low beams on.
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100237.jpg

With all four lights on and the high beams from my truck. Pretty noticable difference I think.
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100230.jpg

From outside the truck:

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100235.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100231.jpg

Thanks, James

TACODOC

01-12-2008, 09:43 PM

Those lights are impressive! :rockon:

StumpXJ

01-12-2008, 09:59 PM

Thanks Dave! Just trying to keep up with you man... :)

Dont tell anyone, but I just got the green light from my wife to do a Diesel conversion on my Taco while we are in Europe!! The hunt for the perfect donor is on...

~James

p1michaud

01-13-2008, 10:48 PM

I like the new lights.
I may go with HID if the Lightforce ever quit on me...
Great stuff.

Rezarf <><

01-13-2008, 11:10 PM

great write up! Very impressive install and comparison! thanks for posting up, my wife got me a set of 4000's for Christmas as well. Can't wait to fire them up!

Rezarf <><

Overland Hadley

01-15-2008, 03:14 AM

Dont tell anyone, but I just got the green light from my wife to do a Diesel conversion on my Taco while we are in Europe!! The hunt for the perfect donor is on...

~James

Excellent.

Jacket

01-15-2008, 04:40 PM

Now that's some useful light!:26_7_2:

adventureduo

01-15-2008, 04:57 PM

The HID's came out nice. Always wondered how the 4000's/converted to HID looked. HID's are like night and day difference between regular halogen IMHO. We have the VisionX 6500's on our rig and HELLA's halogens and i never even use my HELLA's anymore. On the last trip i ran my HID's for probably 40 mins straight and then went back to regular lighting.. i almost crashed! Felt like my lights were off!

StumpXJ

01-15-2008, 06:24 PM

I know what you mean, if im running the HID's at night here on the roads, then turn them off, I swear its like there is no light at all from my regular headlamps. Amazing...

I couldnt be happier with them.

~James

sami

01-15-2008, 07:21 PM

i'm curious about your bumper.... i see a number of 'TTORA' guys running a very similar look. Is that a TTORA thing?

-Jason

StumpXJ

01-15-2008, 08:29 PM

Which one? the front or the rear? I built them both myself, the rear one is very similar to a Demello bumper, but the front just kind of happend.

Not a TTORA thing, for sure.

~James

Overland Hadley

01-26-2008, 10:27 PM

I saw on other threads that you were looking at RTT's.

Wanted to give you a link to MyWay Tents (http://www.mywayrooftents.co.uk/).

There is a very short ExPo thread about them Here (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10486).

Hope that helps in you search.

StumpXJ

01-28-2008, 10:25 AM

Nathanael, Thanks for the info, I am reading as much as I can about all of the brands/Varieties of tents. At this point, I am leaning towards a Autohome large overlander, or the medium overzone. I hope to know more once the company actually emails me back. I found out that I am only about 7 hours away from their factory, and want to drive down to pick it up (just needed an excuse for a tirp). I am just not sure if they will allow this, nor do I have a clue about their pricing. Its no where listed on the site that I can find, so I sent a request for a catalog.

The RTT, new rack, and getting evrything set-up will be my new big proect for this year. I have a plan, just got to get the wheels in motion. I would love to have it finished before our expedition to Morocco in Oct.

Again, thanks for the info, I enjoyed the reading, but the US dollar to the pound is killer, and I dont think I can justify the cost. The Euro is bad enough, but the pound is crazy.

~James

StumpXJ

01-28-2008, 10:37 AM

Got a few new goodies in the mail today. I will install them tommorow (Tuesday) and will have the "after" pics tommorow afternoon.

Got this after tracing down an exhaust leak to 3 cracks in my stock manifold. Apparently this is a common problem with the 2.7 liter stock manifold, as my research has shown. The LC Engineering header seemed to be the best option/reputation available, and the customer service was great! Good looking product, should be easy enough to install, once I get past the 10 year old rust and corrosion on the stock bolts. I got a new stud kit while I was at it. I am not expecting to get any performance out of it, but if it does, it would be all too welcome. I just want to get rid of the annoying ex. leak!

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/LCEheader.jpg

I ordered these Hella 550's to replace my current cheap-o ebay lights on the rear of my roof rack. I figure these would do a good job of lighting up the rear of my vehicle when in reverse, as well as a good utility light for camping if needed. The lights I have on there now have a more or less pencil type beam, which does nothing for what I need. Of course, I wont be using most of the hardware that came with it, because I already have existing wiring/switch/relay's/etc., but they will be good to throw in the tool box as spares.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Hella550s.jpg

I also order the 700FF's (with the HID converions) for the front of my bumper, but they havent showed up yet.

Thursday is my day that I will finally get around to installing my sliders, as well as my frame reinforcements from Demello. We are going wheeling this weekend, so I have to get this stuff on ASAP. More on that later.

Thanks, James

Overland Hadley

01-29-2008, 12:59 AM

I found out that I am only about 7 hours away from their factory, and want to drive down to pick it up (just needed an excuse for a tirp). I am just not sure if they will allow this, nor do I have a clue about their pricing.

~James

If you visit the factory, maybe you could post up some pics. (not sure if they would allow you to take pictures)

StumpXJ

01-29-2008, 03:23 PM

If they will allow me to pick it up, I will definitely bring the camera. I agree, it would be very cool to see. I still havent heard back from them, I do have a business contact who lives in Italy (he's Italian), so I may have to get him to give them a call. As a business owner who has an online presence, nothing irritates me more than a company who doesnt respond to emails!!! :confused:

~James

StumpXJ

01-29-2008, 03:32 PM

Got some work done on the Taco today, first up was the Hella 550 install, pretty straight forward and only took a few minutes as all of the wiring was pretty much already done from the existing lights.

Before:

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/IMG_0228.jpg

After:

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100249.jpg

Got the header on as well. I was EXTREMELY suprised at how easy this was. I only had to cut two of the bolts off with a grinder (at the Cat), but the 4 inch cutoff wheel made short work of them. The header came with new bolts, so no worries there. I replaced all of the studs in the block also, just for piece of mind. Hats off to the LC Engineering guys, their product work superbly. Everything lined up completely perfect, and was a direct replacement.....and.... NO MORE LEAKY EXHAUST :wings: :wings: I forgot just how quiet my truck is supposed to be! The stock header had cracked literally almost in half (atleast 70% of the diameter was cracked) and was in dire need of replacement. Forgot the camera during the install, so the "after pics will have to do. Very straight forward installation.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100247.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100246.jpg

~James

CYi5

01-29-2008, 03:43 PM

Sweet, I wish the V6 headers were as easy to install.

StumpXJ

02-02-2008, 07:18 PM

I, with the help of a friend Logan, finally got the sliders and Demello frame reinforcements done. The frame feels way more solid now, and I think it should be good to go for a while. My camera batteries crapped out before I could take any pictures of the frame reinforcements, but if youve seen one set, youve seen em all. (the camera may have been scared of the ugly welds I had on the frame stuff... the welder was acting up. Not pretty, but definately stronger than it was!)

Sliders were pretty straight forward, I opted to weld them on. They are very strong, and should do the job well. I also had hoops made for the side protection, but they turned out to be a little too long because the sliders are more forward than I anticipated. They would have hit the doors had I used them. Just have to add another bend in them, then I can weld them on. Next time I am up by the bender (an hour away), I will do this, but for now its ok.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100265.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100260.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100258.jpg

Next on the list is probably my shower/hot water system. I have had all of the parts for months now, just need to get it all mounted and plumbed. Also still need to install the HID 700FF's on the front bumper, but they are still enroute to me. :(

The next big upgrade/modification will be the addition of my RTT. I will have to build a new roof rack system. I already have it basically planned out in my head, but I have to get the tent first. I will be going with the Autohome Large Overland, if everything works itself out.

More on that later.

~James

CYi5

02-02-2008, 07:46 PM

Sweet, looking forward to a writeup on hot water install, think you'll do one?

StumpXJ

02-02-2008, 07:49 PM

Yep, Its already done, just got to install it. You can see the heat exchanger that I made on the picture of my headers. Its the long black tube by the firewall. Got the tank like 8 months ago, and the pump as well. I have all the hose, and fittings (shower head, valves ect.), just got to get off my butt and fab up a craddle for the tank under the truck, and go from there.

Thanks! ~James

StumpXJ

02-12-2008, 06:54 PM

painted the wheels, cleaned her up. I think the wheels look pretty good, time will tell if they hold up or not.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100286.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100284.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100283.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100280.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100278.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100277.jpg

~James

colotaco

02-12-2008, 10:12 PM

Wow,
What kind of paint did you use for your wheels? Was there any special prep work or than cleaning?

02TahoeMD

04-25-2008, 07:02 PM

What a great read! I love what you have done with the Taco, your fab skills are impressive indeed. I saw over on the Jeep forum that you are getting rid of this? How sad! :(

Any chance you could post a closeup photo of the rear quarter panel protection that extends from the bumper? Been thinking of doing something similar with my bumper.....

StumpXJ

04-26-2008, 06:34 PM

Thanks for diggin this up! Yeah, I can take pictures of whatever you need. I will snap some tomorrow, as its already dark here.

Believe me, a part of me is hoping Toyota passes my frame inspection! It really sucks not knowing, because I have a lot of things I want to do, either to this truck, or our Jeep.

~James

StumpXJ

05-09-2008, 12:09 PM

I picked this stuff up yesterday at a German distributor about 2 hours from my house. The "brand name" of the tent, awning and veranda is "Primetech Tents USA", but its the same tent that many of the other folks are selling under various names. I figured if I was going to buy all of this stuff, never having used a RTT before, I didnt want to spend 2 grand for top of the line, when I could spend a 1/3 of that and have the same concept. Atleast until we get back to the States anyhow, its almost impossible to ship stuff here without it costing more than the item itself.

So far, I am VERY surprised at the design and quality, of course we will see if that changes over 5-10 years. Its all aluminum, and stainless steel hardware, nylon locking nuts on everything, all the stiches look really good, and the fabric is much better than I hoped it would be. The mattress is super comfy, even for my 300 pound butt. I was a little worried about that especially with all of the threads about RTT's and mattresses lately. I was also surprised at how light it is, I was able to muscle it on top of the rack by myself. I would say it weighs probably 70-75 pounds?

The lower veranda will provide plenty of room for a changing room and toilet area, as well as a place for the dogs to sleep. I can set the whole thing up in about 15 minutes now (the pics was my 3rd time setting it all up), including the awning and veranda. I set it up in my backyard, just to see if it was all going to work together and I think it looks rally cool! I had to cut a large portion off of two sides of my roof rack to get the tent to fit, but I have plans to build another rack, as soon as I find out if Toyota is buying this truck back or not. If they do, I will design the new rack for my XJ that I will be building, if I keep the truck, I will make a similar rack to what it is now, only longer and I will have to move my hi-lift and shovel mounts. I lost my shovel mount, and also my rear lights putting this thing on, but I am planning on using the tent this weekend, so I wanted it on.

The awning is really trick! I wasnt sure if I wanted to spend the money on this, as I have been using a tarp pretty succesfully until now. This thing is REALLY easy to set-up, and has a nice compact design. I went for the larger/longer model, and I am glad I did. It can actually be a free standing awning the way it is designed, but I prefer to use the ropes as an added measure of stability in the wind. It also has a nice cover that is made of the same PVC material that the tent cover is made of.

The warehouse I pick this up from yesterday was HUGE. There was two Defender 110's and one D90, and also a Nissan Patrol there with me, also picking up equipment. The warehouse had roof top tents, awnings, winches, and tons of other stuff stacked to the ceiling! Had to be hundreds of everything there. They only allow pick-up for one hour on Thursdays only, so it was a busy hour. Anyway, hope you like it.

~James

PS, I also removed my old sleeping platform from the bed of my truck, I forgot just how much room I had back there! Also, my topper is not as water proof as I thought, most of the wood was water soaked, and weighed twice as much as it did when I installed it! I gained atleast an inch, probably more in rear height when I took it all out.

PPS, I spent $730.00 for everything you see, and also about $65.00 in gas to pick it up.

(sorry for the pic quality, the sun is BEAMING, and there is tons of stuff in the air, spring has finally arrived in Germany!)

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/DSCN0222.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/DSCN0219.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/DSCN0218.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/DSCN0217.jpg

Streakerfreak

05-09-2008, 02:30 PM

That is fantastic and for that price you can't go wrong! Jenn and I REALLY want an RTT, but for $1,000 plus that most are we just can't swing that. Nice find!

So when are you heading back to the US?

StumpXJ

05-09-2008, 03:13 PM

Hey Phil, we just got our 2 year extension approved here, so our return date now is Oct 2, 2010. We will have been here for 5 years when that comes around. Tentative plan now is to move back to somewhere in th northwest, hopefully Portland, Oregon. ( I am from S. Carolina, and have no desire to move back to the South.) It all depends on my wifes job though.

Yeah, It took me a while to convince myself to get the RTT. The last camping/wheeling trip was MUDDY, WET, and COLD (and fun! Wierd how that works!). The back of the truck just wasnt cutting it anymore for me or my wife. I think that was the straw that broke the camels back.

Thanks, James

taco chaser

05-09-2008, 03:27 PM

Nice set up, your purchase will all make sense after a few trips, I love having a RTT. The only down fall to having it attached to the vehicle is once camp is set up your stuck there, no night wheeling or ventureing off unless you want to break camp. Thats were a trailer come's in handy.:sombrero:

taco chaser

05-09-2008, 03:37 PM

That is fantastic and for that price you can't go wrong! Jenn and I REALLY want an RTT, but for $1,000 plus that most are we just can't swing that. Nice find!

So when are you heading back to the US? Check out the econo line of tents from Ezi-Awn, they are only three season so no snow camping, but they are still really nice and cheaper. I roll a Ezi-Awn 1200 econo and its a great tent, but I'm easy, I'm just glad to not have to sleep in the dirt or in some crappy pain in the *** ground tent. Here is the only photo of mine that I have in photobucket.

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg251/tacochaser/queervalleysept07021.jpg

StumpXJ

05-09-2008, 07:46 PM

taco chaser

05-09-2008, 08:25 PM

Good point about not being able to wheel with camp set-up. I was thinking this over when I was tearing down camp today. It took a good 30 minutes to do it right. I will definitely be doing a trailer once I get back to the states. Just makes too much sense not to!

Very much looking forward to using this stuff! Its got to be better than our previous arrangement.

By the way, I know that no one has ever told you this, but your truck is freekin sick :bowdown:

Thanks, James If you ever find yourselves traveling through Northern California let me know, it would be cool to wheel some trails.:sombrero: Oh yeah, thanks James, I like your rig too, it's come together very nice. As for the tent on the roof thing, I have an idea I'm going to try out real soon, I'll let you know how it works, possible solution with out the need for a trailer as a mounting place.

maxama10

05-10-2008, 04:09 AM

Thats RTT looks awesome, I haven't seen any like that before!

and it looks really pretty there :drool:

StumpXJ

05-10-2008, 10:01 AM

Streakerfreak

05-10-2008, 03:00 PM

Hey Phil, we just got our 2 year extension approved here, so our return date now is Oct 2, 2010. We will have been here for 5 years when that comes around. Tentative plan now is to move back to somewhere in th northwest, hopefully Portland, Oregon. ( I am from S. Carolina, and have no desire to move back to the South.) It all depends on my wifes job though.

I hear you on the south. I definitely had my fill of it when we lived in Florida for a few months. The Portland area would be cool. I think we would have been happier in northern Oregon, I will always be a New Englander.

Thanks Taco Chaser, I have just started to check them out. After some time thinking I think we will wait and buy a AT Trailer first and then get a RTT for that.

colotaco

05-13-2008, 03:30 AM

DH2002

05-13-2008, 10:28 AM

Very nice build i wish I had a welder so much and I am digging the light switch panel

StumpXJ

05-13-2008, 11:50 AM

Colotaco, here is the same tent and changing room at a place in the states.

http://www.roof-top-tent.com/products.asp

Not sure if they carry the awning also, and also not sure of their pricing. I did a bit of haggling with these guys over here, so they made me a package deal. Normally this would have cost me 730 euros (about 1100 dollars), but I talked them into giving me a 1:1 exchange rate. Like I said, they had hundreds of these things, and probably just wanted to move them. They were pretty certain to make sur eyou didnt see what other guys picking them up paid, but I talked to one of the guys in the Defender 110 who drove down from the UK on is way to Spain and paid 400 pounds (about 800 dollars) for the same set-up.

DH2002, thanks! Welders are cheap compared to armor, go buy one and learn how to use it. :D

~James

taco chaser

05-13-2008, 03:09 PM

Thanks Maxama!

Taco Chaser, if we move to the northwest, I will definitely be planning some norcal trips. You have my attention with the rooftop solution possibility. I was about to go buy steel for a new rack.... anything you want to tell me that might change that decision? :D

~James James, the idea I have is to use the thule quick disconnect towers so the tent is removable with the help of another person and creating an easy to store base system with another set of the quick disconnect foot plates. So you can take the tent off the roof and click it onto a fold out base thats about 6 to 10" high so your still off the ground but you can leave camp set up to go motor'n around. The only problem is the need for some ones help to remove it, but in a base camp situation there is usually some one willing to help. So not the greatest idea , but an idea. So if you were planning on building a rack, it could use a set of the towers and you could incorporate legs that slide out or a base system that clicks on if you can make the rack light enough. I haven't had the chance to try or test this out, so I'm not to sure on how practical this would be.

Your set up is sweet all put together, ready to live out of, screw paying rent! get a roof top tent!

StumpXJ

05-16-2008, 02:57 PM

Well, 8 weeks after starting this frame rust stuff with Toyota, I finally got some info. Because I am over here in Germany with the military, it was not a typical case, for obvious reasons.

After this and that, my case manager today finally told me to put the truck up on the rack, take pictures of the damage, and send them to her in an email. She said it was the easiest way, instead of trying to tell the German Toyota dealerships (they dont have tacos over here)how to do the inspection, blah blah blah. She basically told me what I needed to find to have my truck bought back.

Holes.

No holes, no money.

It doesnt matter that I have 4inch chunks of rusted steel flaking off, apparently that is the same as "surface rust" (which of course is bull, and she knew it), but she was way cool about it, and basically told me to find a rusted hole in the frame and I would be set.

I checked the frame a couple weeks ago, and the metal dented very easily in front of the spring holders.

Today, I put the truck up on the rack, and hit the frame with a ballpean hammer like the Toyota PDF says to do, and the second hit it went through the frame. I was honestly surprised how easily it went through, as the frame does not look bad from the outside compared to other I have seen.

I sent my case manager all of the photos and info, just waiting to hear back from them now. I will REALLY hate losing my taco, but I dont want it if its going to be dangerous or fall apart (literally) in a years time. The money they are paying is too good to pass up.

Time will tell :(

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/DSCN0238.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/DSCN0234.jpg

I also threw in these pics with the email to the lady at Toyota just to let her know how much I loved my truck. I also kind of like showing it off every once in a while. :D

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100283.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/SS100280.jpg

~James

maxama10

05-16-2008, 04:22 PM

ouch...:eek:

At least now you have a chance to start fresh

-Max

Edit: kind of makes me nervous though, with all the troubles you guys are having with your frames. Bending behind the cab and rust and whatnot I hope the 05+ frames are beefier and treated better.

I didn't read enough of the other threads to find out, why are they rusting so badly?

taco chaser

05-16-2008, 04:24 PM

Is this a recall issue? Where did you live before Germany and did you have your tacoma then? Your frame needs to be repaired before you go wheeling again, take a wire wheel or a sanding disk and clean the frame to see if the rot is on top, bottom, and back of the frame also. What I'm wondering is if the frame can even be repaired by plateing. Is it only happening on the rear of the truck?

p1michaud

05-16-2008, 04:47 PM

Today, I put the truck up on the rack, and hit the frame with a ballpean hammer like the Toyota PDF says to do, and the second hit it went through the frame. I was honestly surprised how easily it went through, as the frame does not look bad from the outside compared to other I have seen.

I can understand how you feel. Just went through the inspection but the truck passed, thank godness. I'm not ready to part with it just yet, after all the work I want to enjoy it some. The good thing is that Toyota is paying good money for these trucks at the moment.
Cheers,
P

StumpXJ

05-16-2008, 05:53 PM

Max, they had some issues with treating/sealing the frames from the factory on the 95.5 - 2000 tacos. I have heard of a few rust issues on newer 05 up trucks, but not to the point of holes yet. Just surface rust. The problem with the older gen tacos is they were rusting from the inside out. The outside of my frame looks good (other than slight surface rust, and obviously a lot of mud), but many of the trucks you can put your finger right through the frame rail even though it looks ok.

Taco Chaser (sorry, I dont think Ive ever seen your real name!), I assumed (wrongly) that everyone would know what I was talking about. Its not an official recall from toyota, but its "voluntary". They are saying its a 15 year "extended warranty". They have bought back TONS of tacos in the past two months, and now they are getting overloaded with the amount of trucks who have very bad issues with rust. Here is a link on TTORA discussing the issues.

http://www.ttora.com/forum/showthread.php?t=95993

The frame has been strengthened on the outside with the Demello frame plates, but this is obviously a little further towards the front of the truck. If Toyota buys the truck back (and they most likely will), I have probably had my last wheeling days with this taco. If for some reason they dont buy it back, I will rebuild the entire truck from the cab back. It will become a serious project. My frame is probably one of the best looking frames that actually has a hole, most of them are completely shot. And they tend to start where mine is rotting, and go from there. Here are a few shots of some seriously rotted frames.

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/7080/1000098gy6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/8494/1000094do5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/8148/1000062yt7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

...... I just got off the phone with Toyota. They called and said it looks like the Taco is headed to the crusher! :(

Now they are trying to figure out what zip code to use with Kelly Blue Book to make me an offer on the truck.

Its a sad day indeed. I will start pulling parts off of her soon. Damn, its like losing a best friend or something...

The offer for my truck SHOULD be $13,860 (1.5 times KBB retail/ex condition) That will make it a little easier. Thats 6 thousand dollars more than I paid for it 2 years ago, and I get to keep all of the aftermarket stuff!

~James

P, you better take care of her! it hurts bad, and mine is still in the driveway!

taco chaser

05-16-2008, 07:15 PM

That's horrible man, sorry to here about it, that is some nasty rot. When you get your new truck, after you install everything maybe undercoat or bed line the frame. Have you looked into a new or used frame cost and considered swapping everything?

Matt

SWDesertTaco

05-16-2008, 08:08 PM

Hey,
I've really enjoyed reading your build up thread and now the crushing news... (really no pun intended).

Its fortunate that you're getting such a good deal on the buy back, but still hard to lose something like that. I know I wouldn't want to trade mine out for any kind of cash.
Keep us posted on what develops..when you have a new ride coming..
I guess we'll witness your fab skills at work again :)

-C

bobmuley

05-16-2008, 11:05 PM

Stumptaco, sorry to hear the bad news regarding your frame.

I haven't been here long but enjoy reading your buildup. Hopefully I'll get the pleasure of reading another by you on a new platform...besides, I get the feeling that you like the modifying as much or more as the driving.

Cackalak Han

05-16-2008, 11:57 PM

That sucks. It's really sad that all of these nice trucks are going to the crusher. I hope this is all limited to 95-00 trucks, like Toyota said.

What are you going to get when you get the check? You should get a Hilux!!

BTW, I would use a zip code from Utah, Colorado or the surrounding areas. Seems to have the highest resale value.

maxama10

05-17-2008, 01:59 AM

Are they going to crush the entire truck, motor tranny cab and all?

StumpXJ

05-26-2008, 09:57 AM

Well, this weekend was most likely the last wheeling tirp for my taco before Toyota comes and sends it to its early grave. It, as usual, performed flawlessly, unlike the Jeeps I was with. I decided that since I was going over to the Jeep side of the wheeling world, I should make friends with the local Jeep club and go with them. They were a really cool groups of folks, and we had a blast. They gained a new respect for Toyota's wheeling ability, and I think I will be right at home with this group once the XJ gets over here.

Here are a bunch-o-pics:

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0300.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0299.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0298.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0297.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0296.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0295.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0294.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0293.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0292.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0291.jpg

StumpXJ

05-26-2008, 10:00 AM

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0290.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0289.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0288.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0287.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0286.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0285.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0284.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0320.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0319.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0318.jpg

StumpXJ

05-26-2008, 10:02 AM

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0317.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0316.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0315.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0314.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0313.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0312.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0311.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0310.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0309.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0308.jpg

StumpXJ

05-26-2008, 10:02 AM

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0307.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0306.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0305.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0304.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0303.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0302.jpg

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Camp-4-Fun%20Wheeling%20pics/DSCN0301.jpg

StumpXJ

05-26-2008, 10:24 AM

Jeep Carnage:
TJ #1, ripped open tranny oil pan after a pretty amazing rock run. Did great through a wicked line, then on the exit the tranny pan popped open.. Took it off, and mig welded it shut, drove it home.

TJ #2, broken U-joint, had a spare fixed it. Same TJ, broken brake line, had a spare, fixed it. Same TJ, shifter linkage fell off, fixed it.

TJ #3, broken front Diff, removed drive shaft and continued the day in 2WD.

Grand Cherokee Limited, completley destroyed passenger side sheet metal in the rocks, had no business being there without armor and completely stock. Same Cherokee, security system malfunctioned, and would not stay running. Had to call a tow truck to tow him all the way home.

Toyota Carnage:
None. :clapsmile Went everywhere the Jeeps did, and someplaces the Jeeps couldnt go. Even those that were fully locked.... Long wheelbase makes for a nice hill climbing vehicle :)

Im not bragging or anything.... just sayin'. :luxhello: I hope my XJ is almost as tough as my Taco has been, except for that whole frame thing.

While this was probably the last wheeling trip for the taco, I am taking a pretty big trip next week to Sweden. It should be about a 2,400 mile round trip and will include a 4 night camping stay. I will finally get to use the RTT, and everything else. Should be fun!

~James

taco chaser

05-26-2008, 03:38 PM

Cool photos. That town along the river looks real nice, what town was it?

So why the XJ over a toyota? I realize you had a bad Tacoma experience but XJ's have there own batch of issue's besides being a Jeep.:p

StumpXJ

05-26-2008, 07:14 PM

Matt, thanks! That town is called Bernkasel Kues, it is on the Mosel river. It is indeed a beautiful little place.

The reason I am picking the XJ is because I already own it. We have it in the States, and its obviously paid for (its a 1996, and we are the original owners), so I am shipping it over here to be my new wheeling machine. I will have about 8K to spend on it for modding (even got clearance from the wife!), so it should be pretty capable when finished. I also have done all of the maintenance on the Jeep since day one so I am pretty familiar with its quirks and problems.

The toyota thing didnt really put a bad taste in my mouth, in fact I am very pleased with how they have handled the issue and would buy another taco in a heartbeat. The problem is, being over here with the military, the pickings for a good used truck are VERY slim, and I dont want to spend the money on a new one. I could get a decent Euro spec vehicle (Hilux, or a Defender, etc.), but dont want to spend that much time and effort on something I cant bring back to the states easily. I have been on the fence about what to do, but the XJ is the most reasonable/responsible thing to do.

~James

maxama10

05-26-2008, 07:59 PM

Cool! We used to have a Wrangler, one time took it out with another guy who had one. He didn't listen to me and was an idiot.

There was a large boulder in the middle of our trail. He didn't see it and just hit it with his tire. It stopped him and he turned on his lockers and tried to gun it over whatever it was in his way while I yelled at him.

Needless to say he bashed in his tranny pan pretty good, fortunately not like the guy above!

I vote for a hilux. :D

But the XJ should be pretty sweet, what are the plans for the mods?

StumpXJ

05-26-2008, 08:28 PM

what are the plans for the mods?

Well, I am starting off with a Rubicon Express 5.5" Longarm lift kit, 35 inch Copper STT's, Chromo axle shafts, 4.88 gears and an ARB in the rear. I will armor the whole thing, front winch bumper with a 10,000 pound winch, and a swingout tire gate bumper for the rear, with another rear mounted winch, probably the 8000 pounder I already have. A roof rack to accomodate my lights and roof top tent, sliders, etc. All of my gadjets from the yota will go in the Jeep also, cameras, fridge, Scan guage, (and of course a snorkel because trhey are cool....) etc. I may eventually do an internal cage also, just depends on which way I go with it. The 8k dollars I have to play with wont last long with the above list, but since I will do 95% of the fab work myself, it should be doable.

~James

maxama10

05-26-2008, 08:54 PM

Will you and tacogrande be fabbing up the bumpers?

Sounds pretty sweet!

:chef:

fbksurferjoe

05-26-2008, 09:19 PM

Ah man i just read up on your thread and cant believe what i saw. I am sorry to hear about your taco i cant even imagine losing mine. Hopefully the jeep works out as well for you.

taco chaser

05-26-2008, 11:04 PM

StumpXJ

05-28-2008, 03:32 PM

Heading out in the morning at 5am for the start of a 2,200 mile round trip journey to Sweden. Got the truck slam packed with stuff, with very littl room to spare. The "stuff" includes a reserve 140 liters of fuel with 7 Jerry cans, and the 65 liters in the trucks tank. I dont want to have to buy fuel on the european economy, as we can get it at about half price (still $4.10 per gallon!) on the military base, so I am taking as much with me as I can.

Here are a few loaded pics.

Not sagging too bad right now, but I will probably put 20-30 pounds in the airbags before I leav in the morning. Right now they are at only 5 Psi. I am not sure how much weight is on the rear of my truck, but its a lot.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Truck%20pics/DSCN0321.jpg

This is the reason I am going to Sweden (the orange R/C boat), to race radio controlled boats. This is actually what I do for a living over here, modify engines, and make various custom parts for these boats. I am currently the world record holder in two classes for straightaway speeds, and the world champion for 2008 in the "Sport Modified" class. Ok ok... so its not exactly earth shattering, but not many people can say they are "world champion" at something!

Here is a video of an engine I built for a record run for a guy, http://youtube.com/watch?v=riUSMBR6V78 Just to give you an idea. :)

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Truck%20pics/DSCN0322.jpg

Jerry cans?
http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Truck%20pics/DSCN0323.jpg

This will be my first outing with the new RTT/changing room and awning. Looking forward to not having to load everything back up everyday to go to the hotel! I will be spending 4 nights there.

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n257/topfuel443/Truck%20pics/DSCN0217.jpg

~James