Plannerman
Wandering Explorer
Here’s an idea for discussion of veteran Tacoma owners and consideration by new or aspiring Tacoma owners, presented with the priorities of functionality and getting home, inspired by a similar thread on FJCs. There are many ways to skin the proverbial cat, or in this case, outfit a Tacoma for overlanding. I am sure that many will have different opinions and perspectives (a lift should be first, a bumper and winch should be first, what about your refrigerator?, etc.). After five years of Tacoma ownership, I have the following reflections. This is my two cents based on personal trial and error, friends’ experiences, and research. This list is how I would proceed if I were to start with a new truck tomorrow. These numbers come in just short of $2000, but I am sure tax and shipping will eat up that margin. If not, then you’ve got more funds for fuel.
Sliders – $410
The Tacoma is relatively long (by that, I mean it is longer than a JKU or 4Runner), so get sliders. And buy sliders first. Sliders have been the single best investment, besides gas for trips, in my truck and have saved my bacon several times. These range in price, configuration, and attachment set up (bolt on vs. weld). I prefer bolt on because I don’t like the idea of permanently attaching what is essentially disposal armor to my truck. Like skid plates, sliders are meant to be abused and should be easily removed for replacement or repair. Despite what some will say, bolt on and weld on are both strong enough. You wouldn’t weld on your skid plates or bumper, would you? There are many styles out there, as well. I really like Demello’s standard sliders. $410.
Skids – $725
As noted above, the truck is relatively long. It does, however, have decent ground clearance. But, even with a lift, you run a risk of damaging something when in rough terrain. Skids are very good insurance for getting home safely. Again, several brands. I am leaning towards the Bud Built skids and, if I can afford it, will go with aluminum to save weight. The steel set is $725. I should also note that I really like All Pro Offroad’s offerings and will likely add a few pieces of their armor, like the e-Locker skid, at some point.
Rear suspension – $600
I still do not understand why a company that does such a good job designing and manufacturing such stout vehicles cannot make leaf springs that are worth a damn. I have only ever owned vehicles with leaf sprung rear suspensions and I have never seen rear springs wear out so quickly. And for the record, I heavily use my vehicles. That’s why I buy trucks. The stock three leaf spring pack on my 2010 were abysmal and could not even handle a load of hay bales. The TSB spring pack helped, but are already wearing out (read, reforming into Ws) after less than 70,000 miles. Plan on replacing these springs. While you’re at it, you could consider upgrading the suspension all the way around. However, I never found the front lacking and wouldn’t say it is a critical early need. If you want something with a little better articulation, ride, and lift, (but not increase weight carrying capacity) you could upgrade with something like Icon’s add-a-leaf for $225. If you want more lift and more carrying capacity, consider All Pro’s ExPo leaf springs for $400. I will likely replace my leaf springs with the heavy duty Old Man Emu Dakar springs for moderate lift (2+”) and additional load carrying capacity at a cost of $350 - $400. Assuming you’ll go with additional lift, consider replacing your rear shocks, as well, for another $150 - $200.
Recovery Gear – $240
At some point, everyone will get stuck. Be like a Boy Scout and plan for it. While a winch is nice, I would not consider a winch critical. There are other options that cost less money, but require much, much more muscle. At the very least, purchase (and learn to use) a Hi-Lift jack. Also purchase a recovery kit with a tree strap, some shackles, and a recovery strap. Make sure to include the appropriate gear to transform your Hi-Lift into a come-along. Then throw in a hitch mounted shackle, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher and you’ll be somewhere near $240.
Sliders – $410
The Tacoma is relatively long (by that, I mean it is longer than a JKU or 4Runner), so get sliders. And buy sliders first. Sliders have been the single best investment, besides gas for trips, in my truck and have saved my bacon several times. These range in price, configuration, and attachment set up (bolt on vs. weld). I prefer bolt on because I don’t like the idea of permanently attaching what is essentially disposal armor to my truck. Like skid plates, sliders are meant to be abused and should be easily removed for replacement or repair. Despite what some will say, bolt on and weld on are both strong enough. You wouldn’t weld on your skid plates or bumper, would you? There are many styles out there, as well. I really like Demello’s standard sliders. $410.
Skids – $725
As noted above, the truck is relatively long. It does, however, have decent ground clearance. But, even with a lift, you run a risk of damaging something when in rough terrain. Skids are very good insurance for getting home safely. Again, several brands. I am leaning towards the Bud Built skids and, if I can afford it, will go with aluminum to save weight. The steel set is $725. I should also note that I really like All Pro Offroad’s offerings and will likely add a few pieces of their armor, like the e-Locker skid, at some point.
Rear suspension – $600
I still do not understand why a company that does such a good job designing and manufacturing such stout vehicles cannot make leaf springs that are worth a damn. I have only ever owned vehicles with leaf sprung rear suspensions and I have never seen rear springs wear out so quickly. And for the record, I heavily use my vehicles. That’s why I buy trucks. The stock three leaf spring pack on my 2010 were abysmal and could not even handle a load of hay bales. The TSB spring pack helped, but are already wearing out (read, reforming into Ws) after less than 70,000 miles. Plan on replacing these springs. While you’re at it, you could consider upgrading the suspension all the way around. However, I never found the front lacking and wouldn’t say it is a critical early need. If you want something with a little better articulation, ride, and lift, (but not increase weight carrying capacity) you could upgrade with something like Icon’s add-a-leaf for $225. If you want more lift and more carrying capacity, consider All Pro’s ExPo leaf springs for $400. I will likely replace my leaf springs with the heavy duty Old Man Emu Dakar springs for moderate lift (2+”) and additional load carrying capacity at a cost of $350 - $400. Assuming you’ll go with additional lift, consider replacing your rear shocks, as well, for another $150 - $200.
Recovery Gear – $240
At some point, everyone will get stuck. Be like a Boy Scout and plan for it. While a winch is nice, I would not consider a winch critical. There are other options that cost less money, but require much, much more muscle. At the very least, purchase (and learn to use) a Hi-Lift jack. Also purchase a recovery kit with a tree strap, some shackles, and a recovery strap. Make sure to include the appropriate gear to transform your Hi-Lift into a come-along. Then throw in a hitch mounted shackle, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher and you’ll be somewhere near $240.
