RSB's Radiant Red Tacoma build
- Thread starter RSB
- Start date
Wes Craiglow
Member
RSB
Adventurer
For awhile now, I've been contemplating an alternative solution to removing the canopy off the truck. Usually, this requires 4 people. Fed-up w/essentially losing the 'pick-up' functionality my truck once had, I decided to do something about it. Special thanks to 'HMR' and his design detailed here. In 10 min, I can have the canopy removed or installed by myself. Here's how it turned-out...
The straps are the most difficult part to prep, as they must each be fed between the rails and bottom of the canopy, every time.
Overall, I'm very pleased with the results.
I have the pick-up back again when I need it. All it needs now is some padding!
The straps are the most difficult part to prep, as they must each be fed between the rails and bottom of the canopy, every time.
Overall, I'm very pleased with the results.
I have the pick-up back again when I need it. All it needs now is some padding!
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RSB
Adventurer
When I first bought the canopy, I actually painted the outside half of the bed rails in an exterior enamel paint to color-match the black Line-X that showed through underneath. I took the advice of a Line-X shop out in SoCal and went w/their recommendation of trying paint. After removing the canopy, I was unhappy with how the paint was holding-up. So, I headed down to my local Line-X and fixed the problem. Rails are now completely coated with color-matched Line-X Xtra. I also re-routed the air compressor lines beneath the BedRug for a cleaner look. The air tank has been disconnected and removed from the bed, still pending completion of the rear cross member.
When not in use, the compressor will be protected w/an elastic waterproof cover to protect it from being exposed to the elements.
When not in use, the compressor will be protected w/an elastic waterproof cover to protect it from being exposed to the elements.
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D
Deleted member 9101
Guest
Man, I love your truck... you have me on the verge of selling my Tundra and getting a red taco...lol
RSB
Adventurer
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RSB
Adventurer
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RSB
Adventurer
I'm kind of upset my Deavers have essentially leveled-out already—especially when I haven't really done anything in the bed yet. This is one area I realized I hadn't planned-out very well. I still expect a few hundred more pounds once the removable rear platform, fridge, auxiliary fuel tank, water, camping gear, RTT, awning, spares/parts & emergency gear are all on-board.
I've learned too much spring could give a stiffer ride. I've been told too much shackle could put too much strain on the springs and offer less up-travel—but more down-travel. The benefit to shackles, however, is a level ride, fully loaded.
I was concerned about the uptravel limitation, but I'd rather sacrifice a little uptravel for a smoother ride. Ultimately, I chose a set of 2.5" All-Pro shackles. I'll be avoiding airbags due to reliability and maintenance issues. Later, I'll upgrade to a 10 or 11 pack.
Still ready for the rear cross member...
I've learned too much spring could give a stiffer ride. I've been told too much shackle could put too much strain on the springs and offer less up-travel—but more down-travel. The benefit to shackles, however, is a level ride, fully loaded.
I was concerned about the uptravel limitation, but I'd rather sacrifice a little uptravel for a smoother ride. Ultimately, I chose a set of 2.5" All-Pro shackles. I'll be avoiding airbags due to reliability and maintenance issues. Later, I'll upgrade to a 10 or 11 pack.
Still ready for the rear cross member...
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Box Rocket
Well-known member
Very cool. I just ordered a set of those same AllPro shackles for my OME lifted 2003 DC. Nice to see how it's brought the rear end up on yours.
RSB
Adventurer
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