I look at overland vehicles as the mule of off-road vehicles and for this build I want it tough, compact and still being a daily driver. So I picked the trusty 3rd generation Toyota Tacoma.
Now I’m jumping into this build thread with a bit of progress under my wheels and a solid foundation for what’s to come.
I have address suspension for the time being choosing Icon Suspension opting for the stage 4 package with tubular upper control arms. Once the weight of living quarters are selected on the rear of the vehicle I will be going with OME Dakar leaf pack to carry the load.
When the rubber meets the road Toyo Open Country AT (285/70/R17) answered the call. I mated the Toyo meats to Method Vex rims in matte black and the look awesome and are durable as well.
The bottom side of the rig is completely armored with RCI aluminum skid from tip to tail. I chose aluminum since I’m not planning on being overly aggressive with the vehicle but still wanting a bit on insurance for when I do dice it up on some rocky trail.
While I was at it I also picked up RCI rock sliders for panel protection and I think the RCI sliders will handle the rigors of the trails and will be a good step for reaching item on the roof rack.
With plans for a Baja Design Lights, winch and other electrical needs I jump into the Off-Grid Engineering Dual Battery Kit stuffing two Deka Intimidator Battery, 9A35/85 AGM together on the front drivers side of the vehicle. The kit comes with the Blue Sea 7622 ML-ACR 500 amp, dual voltage sensing relay with interior remote switch. Handing the distribution from the Aux battery is the SPOD 4x4 Universal 8-Circuit SE with Touch Screen.
Also under the bonnet is the ARB Twin Air Compressor with Slee Off-Road mounting bracket for airing up tires and potential air lockers in the future. I still haven’t decide what the commitment level is yet but regearing will be necessary so I’m leaning towards air lockers since diffs will already be out for the regearing operation.
I have other toys that I will be pulling around with a trailer. With the lighter weight of a Tacoma a trailer with e-brakes is pretty important. To handle those duties of controlling the e-brakes is the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller. The dial controller mounts cleanly on the dash with main unit mounted remotely out the way.
This is currently where the build up stands but C4 Fabrication front and rear bumpers are on the way and making some decision on how to go with roof top tent or some other topper camper set-up.
If your interested in some of the daily updates you can check out my IG feed.
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