New expedition rig need some help

[texasmedic]

I have a 2013 Ram 1500 4x4 that I am looking to turn into a nice expedition rig I will be using it all over the USA. In the works right now is a bumper kinda based on a prerunner but with a 12k winch and a rack over the bed with a basket and lights on top and mounts for tools fuel and water on the sides.I kinda have a rough Idea of what I want to do with the rack but am always open to new ideas.

Now for some areas I need more help with I currently have a 2" level and 34" toyo A/TIIs and 3:55 gears I also have a bullydog programer and vararam intake with 87mm PTB. Do you think that will work or should I go with a full 4 or 6in lift and some mud terrain tires Is there anything else I can do to get better performance off road? I know it will never be a rock crawler but I don't really need it to be. I just want to be able to travel to remote parts of the country that most people will never be able to see. I do however want to be able to get places a stock truck wont go.

 

[Shocker]

I think your setup is fine. What you need to do is get out there and see how it works, then make corrections/improvements as needed.

The tires are good IMHO. You can always swap them out if you find them inadequate. You might consider gears with the 34" tires.

Post some pics!

 

[texasmedic]

Thanks for the reply I should start on the bumper this weekend and will try to get some pictures. any suggestions on things to add to the bumper? so far lights winch and tow hooks are all I can think of. also if anyone can point me to some good designs to copy that would be great as of right now I am looking at a ram runner look but open to other ideas

 

[HRT Offroad]

If it were me; I would address the front suspension with some 0-3" Coil-overs and new upper a-arms. In the Rear I would add some different coils and shocks. This will allow your suspension to work much better, and offer you a better ride, performance and articulation.

As far as bumpers go, I like traditional style pre-runner style bumper for approach angles etc. The down side is that they don't offer as much in the way of strength and side protection compared to plate style bumpers. My truck has a pre-runner bumper on it now, and it serves me well, but the next one will have provisions for a winch in it...just like you are talking. Looking forward to the results of your build

 

[texasmedic]

Are there any brands you would recommend?

 

[HRT Offroad]

Are there any brands you would recommend?

ICON make a full system. Radflo also makes coilovers and rear shocks and you could combine those with Total Chaos upper arms...