Gitout Expedition Build - 2013 Toyota Tacoma DC TRD

[montypower]

This is the new project: 2013 Toyota Tacoma DC TRD, 4x4, Auto! I picked it up with only 7 miles on the odometer.

The goal is to have modifications completed and be on the trails by the end of January (about 45 days). The primary objective is: reliability, comfort and expedition capability. This isn't going to be an "extreme" truck... The 92 Isuzu proved that extreme suspension articulation isn't required for trail driving here in the Northwest (rock crawling is a different story). That being the case this truck will get the complete heavy duty OME Suspension. It provides solid on road handling, reasonable articulation and durability that's unmatched. The front will have a steel bumper with Warn Xeon winch and wireless controls. The underside will be armored with skid plates and the body panels protected with rock sliders. The rear is getting some custom tube work to protect the quarter panel and rear bumper; yep I'm keeping the factory bumper and tow hitch. The Thule hitch rack and will be used to carry my mountain bike.



There will be a bed rack that will sport a roof tent, high lift jack, shovel, table, gas, water... And... there will be a ARB fridge! That's what I'm most excited about. No more ice and water logged food. The remaining space in the bed will be for camping gear and travel supplies. My goal is to be able to take 1 week long trips to the outback with reasonable comfort.

The truck already has the tow package with 130 amp alternator and it will be storing the juice in two Odyssey batteries.



Originally, I wanted to keep the factory wheels but they won't clear after installing the spindle gussets. So I'm replacing them with some 16" TRD wheels which have slightly less backspacing. 32" mud tires will wrap the wheels and provide slightly more ground clearance and improved traction. Yes, I've debated 33s but decided against them as power, braking and gas mileage (ie travel range) are more important to me.



This is going to be a fun project. I'd love to hear your thoughts and feedback!

 

[PaintRock]

That is a nice looking rig already. It's only going to look better with the mods you have planned. My next rig will probably be a Tacoma. Looking forward to the build thread.

 

[Finlay]

I do like those silver tacos. Looking forward to seeing what you do.

 

[Airmonger]

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57548

For sale, cheap and it's in the northwest!

 

[cam-shaft]

Subscribed. It will be a good one.

Cam-shaft.

 

[wingysataday]

Whatever you do with the suspension, do it right the first time. Don't jack around with spacers in the front and blocks in the back, they are just for show. Do the cheap mods listed on "nuebs" signature.(http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/28533-installed-d-rings-bed-pics.html). Don't cut your fenders if the tires rub. Just let em rub. When you start cutting up the fenders it just makes it easier for the tire to snag the mud flap and fender. I ended up replacing the stuff I cut with stock taco parts and it rubs a bit but who cares. Get some lights up front! Relocate the trailer wiring plug, it will get ripped off in no time. I really hesitated to get sliders and regret it. I have a little damage to the body underneath from not getting them first. There is a newer company in Las Vegas who is doing some really neat things for the taco http://famousfabrication.com. Check him out.

 

[wingysataday]

PS don't buy a cold air intake, they just sound cool and that's it. PLus if you get rid of your stock stuff you can;t put on a snorkel. Cold air intakes don't really do what they say. Most people see very minimal gains if not a loss. CAI are only good on high performance motors especially turbo rigs. Merrry Christmas!

 

[clcoyle]

:lurk: Can't wait to see your progress....here's mine without the RTT over the bed.

View attachment 134458

 

[montypower]

Thanks guys! The hard part is waiting on parts to arrive... Most everything is ordered. I'll be doing a second phase of modification for: dual batteries, roof tent, fridge...

 

[montypower]

First parts arrived today... Wet Okole Seat Covers & Weather Tech Floor Mats!

 

[washington taco]

Nice build! Subed

 

[Edwardcs]

Taco

Look forward to seeing your progress.

 

[Plannerman]

Spindle gussets? Why do you think you'll need those?


Sent via fat thumb

 

[montypower]

Spindle gussets? Why do you think you'll need those? Sent via fat thumb

Factory spindle is weak. Gusset = Inexpensive. Towing & replacement spindle = spendy. It may never be an issue but I'd rather be too strong than weak.

 

[montypower]

Started "Project Plastic Wrap" last week. I'm wrapping the entire truck with 3m clear bra. Purchased a 50ft roll of 60" film. My brother is giving me a hand which has been awesome. This is my first time working with clear bra and there's a bit of a learning curve. I think it looks decent so far; half of it is completed! The concept is to protect the paint from tree pinstriping and keep the truck looking new longer. I don't want to be worried about driving the truck on densely forested trails.