Few Questions

[Z O O R O P A]

Thanks in advance for any information pertaining to the following;

1) Best set up for net access while using laptop and a long way from home? Any "geek" related info and all products I should acquire to be able to send and receive information relative

2) Can a Tacoma DOuble Cab handle a Hannibal Roof tent on top of the pick up bed if there is a cab already on. Point being potential sleeping quarters for 4 people.

3) 2005-2006 Tacomas engine as reliable as pre '05?

4) Worth me dropping a 6spd into a long bed since they do not offer manuals in long beds?

For example, if I added a roof rack to put the Hannibal on and some accessories, how might I mount this system or has anyone any pics. I am trying to decide between the FJcruiser or a Double Cab - or maybe, dare I say it, both =)

 

[Z O O R O P A]

or use something like this so I can still use the pick up to move/transport but also to use for friends etc when out on adventures/expeditions or when it is pouring rain and I dont want to set up the roof tent

 

[Scott Brady]

1. Stick with the automatic. A swap adds complexity and opportunity for failure. Tacoma auto's are known to go well over 200k miles.
2. Use an external frame to support the tent like Chuck did I really like the looks of the canvas tops, but the security of fiberglass is king IMO.
3. It would be VERY cool to see an 05 Tacoma Double Cab, long bed built into an expedition platform!
:victory:

 

[Z O O R O P A]

Scott, should I use ARB tents,roof racks,over sized gas tanks, and they have 2 options available for use with canopies or "cabs" on the website or do you have other recommendations?

THANKS~!

 

[flyingwil]

my answers

Thanks in advance for any information pertaining to the following;

1) Best set up for net access while using laptop and a long way from home? Any "geek" related info and all products I should acquire to be able to send and receive information relative

That depends on where you are... There are "hot spots" for wireless LAN, and cell modems (Cards and Bluetooth linking Cell phones). So if you can get cell sevice, your good. I think you can also link into Sat phones for a price.

2) Can a Tacoma DOuble Cab handle a Hannibal Roof tent on top of the pick up bed if there is a cab already on. Point being potential sleeping quarters for 4 people.

Yes, but watch the CG, there is a good Rooftop tent thread under the camping folder you might want to check out http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=303

3) 2005-2006 Tacomas engine as reliable as pre '05?

Time will tell... I have not heard of any problems as of yet... and it is a Toyota!

4) Worth me dropping a 6spd into a long bed since they do not offer manuals in long beds?

For example, if I added a roof rack to put the Hannibal on and some accessories, how might I mount this system or has anyone any pics. I am trying to decide between the FJcruiser or a Double Cab - or maybe, dare I say it, both =)

You are better off with the Automatic for reliability purposes, you could swap it, but really isn't worth it in my opinion. The longer wheelbase with the DC Long bed and the weight of the vehicle will make you want the auto back... Like having a dually with manual and towing... you want that auto back after you put on many miles.


Hope that helps!
Wil

 

[asteffes]

Look at the Sprint PCS PC-card format cards for your data access. You can get on the net anywhere you can get Sprint service.

As far as 4.0L reliability, it's too new to know how far they'll go. I haven't read of any immediate problems with them, though.

 

[Z O O R O P A]

Thank you all! With your help I found all the answers to my needs. WIll post follow ups, this place is fantastic and thanks for taking the time to post these replys