View Full Version : Yura's Tacoma
Hey folks!
Don't post much (anywhere) lately, but thought I'd start a build thread on something this forum doesn't see too often.
Traded-in my '06 ML350 for this 2016 Tacoma just over a week ago. First new car, first truck.
Specifically, this is a 4WD, Magnetic Grey Metallic, double-cab, long-bed Tacoma TRD Sport with "upgrade package". Here in Canada that package adds blind spot monitoring system, power moonroof, and wireless Qi phone charging (which my iPhone doesn't support, heh).
The only photo I have of it so far:
https://i.imgur.com/9NWzrQN.jpg
There will be plenty of better ones to follow!
After less than 24hrs of ownership I removed the rear seats, and started working on a dog-platform which I finished yesterday. Mounts to six original seat bolts. Hinges everywhere to allow access to storage compartments both under and behind the rear seats, as well as to let front panel to tilt so that the front seats can be moved forward/back.
https://i.imgur.com/DHI91tI.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/3oBgG8z.jpg
Mounted my Valentine V1 with some spare RAM-Mount parts I had laying around. Also mounted my G1WH dash camera into the stock GoPro mount (had to cut some GoPro-compatible slots in the camera's original mount).
https://i.imgur.com/wKbJCeM.jpg
Have hardwired everything since taking the photo.
danewilson77
02-29-2016, 03:58 PM
Love it. I have a 2014 Tacoma.
Sent from an S6 Edge
Love it. I have a 2014 Tacoma.
Sent from an S6 Edge
Didn't know that, Dane. You've got the best of both worlds!
danewilson77
02-29-2016, 04:10 PM
Didn't know that, Dane. You've got the best of both worlds!
Alpine white!
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160301/7a32f19818d027a3583bb61ed51fd3ab.jpg
Sent from an S6 Edge
Here's a random question that some of you might know the answer to:
As part of my hard-wiring-goodies process I found some switched 12V wires that randomly change output 5V. I tested one wire at least four timed to ensure it gave 12V when the truck was running, and 0 with the truck off. Hooked everything up to it, and bam, now it gives 5V. Disconnected my add-ons and it still gave 5V, then randomly switched to 12V. Same thing with another wire under the hood (sensor of some sort). Anyone know what the deal is with this or how to check for a switched 12V that won't fluctuate? I generally dislike tapping OEM wires as it is, much less tapping ones that won't work!
Dane - the size of your garage has got me drooling! Joys of condo living.
Is your OR stock?
I'm on the edge of the next gen. I have a 2013 TRD off road double cab.
Sent from my iPhone 6S using Tapatalk
If you want any feedback, let me know!
If you want any feedback, let me know!
My big concern is towing. I drag a 3000 lb. boat and read that the new 3.5L 6 speed auto experiences a lot of gear changes and never gets into 6th when towing. I'm in the back hills and having the 4.0L 5 speed auto still seams likens better option.
This is my second Toy, I had a 88 second gen from 1988 threw 1996 and that truck was great on maintenance and performance. It was like an Eveready battery and just kept going and going. Interested on your opinion on the 2016 gen 3 Tacoma.
Sent from my iPhone 6S using Tapatalk
I've read people complaining about the automatic constantly switching gears on hills. One guy even traded-in his brand-new 2016 auto for a manual and said that was much better. Doesn't make sense to me as you can always push the auto into "sport" mode and choose the gear manually. I live in a pretty flat area so I've yet to experience anything of the sort. Butter smooth for me. I also read that the software learns your driving styles and adapts to it over time, so I'd imagine things will get even better.
BMWCurves
02-29-2016, 06:13 PM
Very cool! I like the modifications you've made so far. Why did you give up the MB?
I've never owned a truck, my family's never owned a truck, but I've always liked them for their utility and relative durability, depending on make and model.
Why did you give up the MB?
All V6 Mercedes' from 2006 to 2008 are ticking time bombs - Google the infamous "balance shaft" issue. In the US, a class-action lawsuit recently ruled that MB has the cover all (or most) of the repair. In Canada we're not so lucky, and it's an $8000 bill at the dealer, or $3000 at the cheapest, shadiest Indy I could find. I did have Lubrico's private warranty remaining, but no guarantee that they would cover this repair, and even then, they have a max-payout of $2000. That, and upcoming maintenance (brakes were just about done - $1000 job; needed brake/tranny/diff fluids - another $500; front shocks were on their way out - $2000) made me long for a newer vehicle with better reliability and cheaper maintenance costs.
Plus, I do a ton of light off-roading, exploring and camping, and the versatility of a truck really appealed to me. I just ordered a canopy on the weekend (ETA 3-4 weeks) and plan to sleep in the bed when camping.
danewilson77
02-29-2016, 06:37 PM
Dane - the size of your garage has got me drooling! Joys of condo living.
Is your OR stock?
What is an OR?
Sent from an S6 Edge
What is an OR?
Sent from an S6 Edge
TRD Off-Road. I've been spending too much time on Tacoma World ;)
danewilson77
02-29-2016, 07:18 PM
It's an OR. I'm on there occasionally.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160301/27bb4599615db1f41e9f3b024f65668a.jpg
Sent from an S6 Edge
A few shots of mine!
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160301/b583c591d8388286d3e163e0837aac9d.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160301/bc9a237984bf728e3a24c39b6c1af60e.jpg
Sent from my iPhone 6S using Tapatalk
Nice! Looks like an amazing pace. Makes me long for summer!
BMWCurves
02-29-2016, 07:48 PM
All V6 Mercedes' from 2006 to 2008 are ticking time bombs - Google the infamous "balance shaft" issue. In the US, a class-action lawsuit recently ruled that MB has the cover all (or most) of the repair. In Canada we're not so lucky, and it's an $8000 bill at the dealer, or $3000 at the cheapest, shadiest Indy I could find. I did have Lubrico's private warranty remaining, but no guarantee that they would cover this repair, and even then, they have a max-payout of $2000. That, and upcoming maintenance (brakes were just about done - $1000 job; needed brake/tranny/diff fluids - another $500; front shocks were on their way out - $2000) made me long for a newer vehicle with better reliability and cheaper maintenance costs.
Plus, I do a ton of light off-roading, exploring and camping, and the versatility of a truck really appealed to me. I just ordered a canopy on the weekend (ETA 3-4 weeks) and plan to sleep in the bed when camping.
A buddy's brother I went to high school with really popularized the whole #vanlife thing (this guy: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/07/style/escape-to-bro-topia.html). He's settled down a bit now, but for several years he just cruised around the US living out of his van and being a surf bum (DOWN BY THE RIVER (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nhgfjrKi0o)). The vans and pickups his friends made were really impressive mobile living situations.
Not that you plan to go to that extreme, but I'm sure you'll have a great time with it.
I'd love to do something like that, but I've got a million "because life, man" excuses as to why I can't. One day I'll get fed up, call quits, and head for the horizon... :)
I do plan on building a sleeping platform in the bed, with pull-out storage drawers underneath. I want to keep all camping/cooking/recovery stuff there on a semi-permanent basis, so that the only things I'd need to pack for a weekend outdoors would be a bag of clothing and some food. May even get one of those fancy ARB Fridges and setup a (dual?) deep cycle battery in the bed to power it. I've seen builds where people do absolutely insane things with their truck beds - like showers, complete with heating, water pumps, privacy curtains, etc. I'll start on this idea once the canopy is installed and I waterproof the bed to a point I'll be happy with. The trick will be to make the storage drawers high enough to store everything I want (need to make a list of this, measure dimensions, plan and then plan some more), but low enough to still allow me room to a) move around on top of it without hitting my head on the canopy, and b) carry large~ish cargo when the need arises.
theothersawyer
02-29-2016, 09:03 PM
My brother-in-law just bought a 2016 Desert Sand Tacoma, and then they released the TRD-Pro, so naturally he put in an order for a Cement Gray one! Lol!!
BMWCurves
02-29-2016, 09:31 PM
Oh yeah, people get really creative with their builds. Some really impressive stuff and I love the way many people custom tailor to their specific needs and interests. A couple of cool ones pulled from Reddit:
1. http://imgur.com/a/sR3r9
2. http://imgur.com/a/EJbZ6
My brother-in-law just bought a 2016 Desert Sand Tacoma, and then they released the TRD-Pro, so naturally he put in an order for a Cement Gray one! Lol!!
I think the earliest deliveries of the 2017 trucks will start in September or so. He's a strong man to wait that long for something he obviously wants yesterday.
Oh yeah, people get really creative with their builds. Some really impressive stuff and I love the way many people custom tailor to their specific needs and interests. A couple of cool ones pulled from Reddit:
1. http://imgur.com/a/sR3r9
2. http://imgur.com/a/EJbZ6
Seen both of those! :D
Check out the builds at http://expeditionportal.com/forum/ - even crazier.
I ordered some light add-ons today:
- hitch lock
- hitch "bump step (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HG2UEBA?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00)"
- maglite mounting brackets
- center console organizer
Got tint appointment scheduled for the 12th. Canopy might be arriving the week after. It's no fun playing the waiting game!
I ordered some light add-ons today:
- hitch lock
- hitch "bump step (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HG2UEBA?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00)"
- maglite mounting brackets
- center console organizer
Got tint appointment scheduled for the 12th. Canopy might be arriving the week after. It's no fun playing the waiting game!
Careful on the hitch lock. Master Lock is the only one that fits my 2013.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0009V1WS4/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1456817598&sr=8-3&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=masterlock+trailer+hitch+lock&dpPl=1&dpID=41ROPCj8c3L&ref=plSrch
Sent from my iPhone 6S using Tapatalk
Careful on the hitch lock. Master Lock is the only one that fits my 2013.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0009V1WS4/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1456817598&sr=8-3&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=masterlock+trailer+hitch+lock&dpPl=1&dpID=41ROPCj8c3L&ref=plSrch
Sent from my iPhone 6S using Tapatalk
Shoot. I thought they were all standard 5/8 size. I ordered this one and it already shipped: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T9N6DPK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00. Hope it works!
theothersawyer
03-01-2016, 09:16 AM
I think the earliest deliveries of the 2017 trucks will start in September or so. He's a strong man to wait that long for something he obviously wants yesterday.
Yeah, he has a slight problem when it comes to buying cars! He says he may cancel the order, but he has plenty of time to think it over!
Vehicle commitment issues? I've been diagnosed with that myself :rockon
Shoot. I thought they were all standard 5/8 size. I ordered this one and it already shipped: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T9N6DPK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00. Hope it works!
My bad! 5/8" is correct but master lock with the bent end is the only one long enough.
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theothersawyer
03-01-2016, 12:19 PM
Vehicle commitment issues? I've been diagnosed with that myself :rockon
Yeah, you could say that!
ryankokesh
03-01-2016, 01:03 PM
Dang... great looking trucks.
I've been trying to convince myself for the past year that a 4Runner would make a good commuter for my daily 100 mile round trip. (Spoiler: it won't.) This thread isn't helping.
4runners are awesome. The consensus on TacomaWorld and other toyota forums is that the 4runner is better built than the Tacoma (4runners are assembled in Japan, whereas the Tacoma is either US or Mexico), more capable off-road (shorter wheelbase), and has much more creature comforts on the interior. I strongly considered them, but the extra cost (~$10k more) and less room for cargo pushed me to a Tacoma. Still, there are lots of amazingly modified 4runners out there that cause uncontrollable drool!
squashman702
03-01-2016, 06:48 PM
My buddy just sold his 2008 TRD Offroad double cab 6MT. I ended up borrowing it for a couple weeks last fall and put at least 1k miles on it, so I had a lot of time behind the wheel. Felt like driving an appliance compared to everything else I've driven that had three pedals- my 1994 Grand Cherokee with a 5 speed felt like a racecar and 10x more precise in comparison. He had some trouble with frame rust, and had the leaf springs replaced under warranty after one broke during daily driving. Throwout bearing squeaked the whole time he owned it, which I guess is a common problem. He wasn't overly impressed and sold it after around 15 months of owning it.
All that being said, I still want an earlier Taco or a 1998-2000 4Runner (e-locker!).
Careful on the hitch lock. Master Lock is the only one that fits my 2013.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0009V1WS4/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1456817598&sr=8-3&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=masterlock+trailer+hitch+lock&dpPl=1&dpID=41ROPCj8c3L&ref=plSrch
Sent from my iPhone 6S using Tapatalk
Got the Curt hitch lock. Too short, doesn't lock when inserted into the receiver. Ugh.
Got the Curt hitch lock. Too short, doesn't lock when inserted into the receiver. Ugh.
Don't feel bad, I learned the hard way too. [emoji41]
Sent from my iPhone 6S using Tapatalk
I bought a different hitch lock from a local Lordco, and installed the hitch bumper/step thing.
Ended up wiring the front camera via add-a-circuit fuse-tap. This is a backup camera that I've re-purposed for a front-camera, and I didn't realize this before, but it actually shows the image flipped horizontally; that makes sense when the camera is looking backwards, but it's a bit of a pain when the camera is facing forwards. Oh well, not the end of the world - still does what I need it to do.
The display did not fit into the sunglass holder in its original case. I disassembled it, cut a piece of thin MDF as a backing plate, and hot glued the circuit board, antenna and display to it for a much-smaller final form factor. Now it fits and the sunglass holder opens and closes without a hitch, ensuring the display is out of my face when I don't need it.
https://i.imgur.com/lHuAfVt.jpg
Also mounted my maglite on the seat for easy access:
https://i.imgur.com/VznGwlz.jpg
And spent the day taking this girl from one park to another:
https://i.imgur.com/jmTCeM6.jpg
BMWCurves
03-05-2016, 11:56 PM
Cool stuff. Why did you put the camera facing forward, do you use it to record as a dash cam?
ELCID86
03-06-2016, 05:01 AM
Your girl looks content!
---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - anonymous
Cool stuff. Why did you put the camera facing forward, do you use it to record as a dash cam?
The truck already has a backup camera. I have a separate dash camera, too. I use this ex-backup camera to gauge the distance in front of the truck when parking in undergrounds, parallel parking, etc. Basically trying to avoid hitting anything!
Canopy arrived early! Leer 100XR w/ Thule rails, sliding & folding front window, sliding windoors, carpet, two interior lights, and keyless entry.
https://i.imgur.com/KLG0L2O.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/qP3xIZL.jpg
Loving it, although it does leak in quite a few spots, so I'll have to hunt down and waterproof those over the coming weeks/months.
fw_fw
03-09-2016, 05:21 PM
That is a LONG looking truck....
Leaks?? I imagine that cover wasn't cheap, I'd be on them to fix leaks.....
Yeah, I think I'll need to hassle the Cap-It dealer. Considering I paid $4400 CAD out the door, I expected better.
BMWCurves
03-09-2016, 06:40 PM
That is a LONG looking truck....
Leaks?? I imagine that cover wasn't cheap, I'd be on them to fix leaks.....
+1
Had a closer look... "leaks" does not even begin to cover it. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ntR3i
Email to dealer sent. Asked for a replacement Canopy; will see how they handle this.
fw_fw
03-09-2016, 06:52 PM
Had a closer look... "leaks" does not even begin to cover it. Photos: https://imgur.com/a/ntR3i
Email to dealer sent. Asked for a replacement Canopy; will see how they handle this.
That is pi$$ poor, especially for such a high-end cap from a high end manufacturer like LEER........geez!!!
That is pi$$ poor, especially for such a high-end cap from a high end manufacturer like LEER........geez!!!
That's just the thing. There's a local manufacturer that offers comparable caps at about half the price. I paid the big bucks because I wanted a top product backed by a large manufacturer and without such defects. Hoping this plays out smoothly...
Spoke with the dealer - sounds like they want to make this right. Bringing in the canopy to them tomorrow.
Came back from the dealer. Almost all of the exterior "scratches" turned out to be left-over wax and various forms of glue/crap residue, so that's not really an issue any more. A few of the scratches are legit, but not big enough for me to cause a hassle over. The scratches on the windoors don't matter either - it's flat black on metal and I can easily touch that up.
The dealer applied another round of silicone around the perimeter of the bed, so hopefully that helps with the leaks. Will also keep an eye on the windoors and rear window - any more leaks there and the windoors will be getting replaced, and rear window taken apart and re-sealed.
I'm cautiously happy with the result - will see. Would have been nice to not have to deal with this from the get-go, but such is life.
fw_fw
03-11-2016, 04:45 PM
Came back from the dealer. Almost all of the exterior "scratches" turned out to be left-over wax and various forms of glue/crap residue, so that's not really an issue any more. A few of the scratches are legit, but not big enough for me to cause a hassle over. The scratches on the windoors don't matter either - it's flat black on metal and I can easily touch that up.
The dealer applied another round of silicone around the perimeter of the bed, so hopefully that helps with the leaks. Will also keep an eye on the windoors and rear window - any more leaks there and the windoors will be getting replaced, and rear window taken apart and re-sealed.
I'm cautiously happy with the result - will see. Would have been nice to not have to deal with this from the get-go, but such is life.
Silicone around the perimeter of the bed?? These covers don't come with a gasket designed for that application?? Wow......
I've never had a cover like that on a pickup, heck I haven't had a pickup in almost 20 years, but it still seems sub-par to me.
Silicone around the perimeter of the bed?? These covers don't come with a gasket designed for that application?? Wow......
I've never had a cover like that on a pickup, heck I haven't had a pickup in almost 20 years, but it still seems sub-par to me.
The installer did mention some sort of gasket. I haven't seen it myself, so I don't know the details. My understanding is that the silicone is in addition to the gasket. I do have a sneaky feeling I'll have to eventually lift the canopy myself and see just what the heck they've done there. Going to be tough to do without a lift to hold the canopy up, but might get away with using a few pieces of lumber to hold it a bit off the truck bed.
Had a closer peek at the new "waterproofing job"...
https://i.imgur.com/lbf2E4M.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/F02xDwV.jpg
Lovely work, is it not?
danewilson77
03-12-2016, 07:37 PM
Jeezus....
Sent from an S6 Edge
Going to give the dealer one more chance to clean this up. I've asked him to find a different installer (he owns other CapIt locations, too) - will see what results out of that request on Monday.
In happier news, got my Weathertech floor liners today (just the fronts) and what a difference they make. Fantastic fit, and they cover SO much more than the OEM "all weather" mats. Also got a phone mount setup, and received a pair of Philips H9 ("Standard") bulbs that I'll retrofit into the H11 low-beam projectors. The light output on the Tacoma (halogen projectors + H11B bulbs) simply sucks. I do miss the bi-xenons from my ML. The H9 should give about twice the output, although at a slightly higher wattage (65W vs 55W H11). From my research this is a very common swap on other cars, and there's no real risks of anything going wrong. Will post photos of the results.
Oh, also got my windows tinted today with 3M window tint. 50% on the front two + moonroof (which had OEM tint of about 35%), and 5% on the rear three (which were also OEM tinted at 35%). This results in about 0.0175% of visible light filtering through the rear three windows, so it's... uhhh... dark! Probably as close to "limo tint" as one can get. This definitely affected the rear-view visibility quite a bit (way more than I expected), especially since the canopy adds an extra tinted glass at the rear, but it's not too bad for my purposes. Hoping for some sunny weather in the near future so I can take some proper photos.
Swapped in Philips "Standard" H9 bulbs for low beams (originally H11). Before & after:
https://i.imgur.com/eOTcPiI.jpg
While u-turning in the parking lot, I got this amazing fuel economy:
https://i.imgur.com/3Y4acac.jpg
... that's 2.4MPG. Beat that!
And a few random photos because why not:
https://i.imgur.com/FEM8nHP.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/q6B9wLC.jpg
ryankokesh
03-14-2016, 09:21 AM
Wow, the new bulbs seem to be a pretty big upgrade. Especially considering they're Phillips' "standard" bulb. Is there a noticeable difference driving with them?
Wow, the new bulbs seem to be a pretty big upgrade. Especially considering they're Phillips' "standard" bulb. Is there a noticeable difference driving with them?
I haven't driven at night yet, so can't really say. I do expect a visible difference, and for $10 (for the pair!), I'm sure it'll be "worth it." I would love to find a brighter H9, but Philips doesn't seem to make their X-treme vision in H9 :(.
Also, the photos above don't really do justice to the headlights. The entire headlight is NOT filled with light as the photos make it look (ie. the HID in halogen housing look) - only the projector is lit up.
Drove at night a bit yesterday. In the city with the accompanying light pollution, but there was still a visible difference in the light output. This is how these trucks should have come stock.
Down the line I'll likely consider doing a proper projector retrofit. A high-quality projector with high-quality, high-output bulbs will make a big difference.
Hit up my favourite local lake over the weekend for some day-chillin'
https://i.imgur.com/wSKSoT6.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/4LHIfnC.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/f3lO725.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/bQtZA3F.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/xiSZ7Z8.jpg
BMWCurves
03-21-2016, 10:38 PM
Those last two photos are straight out of an ad campaign. Great stuff.
P.S. your dog is regal as fuck.
Thank you, I'll pass on the compliments!
danewilson77
03-22-2016, 01:45 PM
Yeah...dog is a photogenic phenom.
Sent from an S6 Edge
Went exploring some backroads today. Weather was gorgeous, and I left my camera at home :(.
Some flexing:
https://i.imgur.com/4K1Popl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/wqvmGll.jpg
And some dirty posing cause the light was nice:
https://i.imgur.com/c4Bu67f.jpg
theothersawyer
04-02-2016, 07:44 PM
That's awesome! Been trying to go off roading with my brother-in-law, but I'm always busy when he goes!! :(
Speaking of, here is his Taco!
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m231/GaAsSlugger22/31E2941A-3C3B-480B-9E60-F9C3F4667FCF_zpshxsh1clp.jpg (http://s105.photobucket.com/user/GaAsSlugger22/media/31E2941A-3C3B-480B-9E60-F9C3F4667FCF_zpshxsh1clp.jpg.html)
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m231/GaAsSlugger22/4AC1E97A-BC7F-4130-AFD1-5387F32D5D1B_zpsrmbqzqrk.jpg (http://s105.photobucket.com/user/GaAsSlugger22/media/4AC1E97A-BC7F-4130-AFD1-5387F32D5D1B_zpsrmbqzqrk.jpg.html)
danewilson77
04-03-2016, 03:57 AM
Bauce
Sent from an S6 Edge
Nice! I've got those same tires (BFG KO2) coming in later this week. Really looking forward to trying them out - the ratings are higher than the stock Destination LE2 in every category.
In the meantime, I've installed a front bed rail, re-sealed the "header piece" at the front of the bed, re-sealed the corners around it, re-sealed one of the windoors (at a trial before doing the second one), re-installed the canopy, and installed a tailgate seal. Fingers crossed for 100% waterproofness from the front/sides now. Still expecting a few drops at the top of the tailgate, but that'll only happen in carwashes and won't be an issue in the rear world.
ryankokesh
04-05-2016, 06:45 AM
Nice! I've got those same tires (BFG KO2) coming in later this week. Really looking forward to trying them out - the ratings are higher than the stock Destination LE2 in every category.
The K02s are insanely good. Best of the best. You're gonna love them.
For anyone reading this in the future (whoa...I'm in the future...) AT2s from General are a great budget-friendly alternative. Those K02s ain't cheap, as I'm sure Yura will attest to.
NoVAphotog
04-05-2016, 08:44 AM
Went exploring some backroads today. Weather was gorgeous, and I left my camera at home :(.
Some flexing:
https://i.imgur.com/4K1Popl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/wqvmGll.jpg
And some dirty posing cause the light was nice:
https://i.imgur.com/c4Bu67f.jpg
Jealous of you guys out there! I've been getting my '00 4Runner fixed up and treated myself to a little mud this past weekend as well.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160405/58976213ff9b43c2273c26b9d9b25332.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160405/774adbedfc9045b202f1d68173b6b685.jpg
Was awesome. Learning how to manage the 4wheel drive and shift gears was really fun even though my friend and I were just messing around on service roads.
https://vimeo.com/161650447
ryankokesh
04-05-2016, 08:49 AM
Damn, seems everyone has a runner or taco. :jealous
NoVAphotog
04-05-2016, 09:10 AM
Damn, seems everyone has a runner or taco. :jealous
Took me a long time to find that thing (5-speed 4x4 3rd gens are getting harder and harder to come by). Worth it though.
Also, I wish Tirerack sold Toyos! I've been loving the Open Country 2s, did great out there and on the road they are pretty damn good for the price point. Had to go through...Treaddepot...ugh. Lol
ryankokesh
04-05-2016, 09:16 AM
Took me a long time to find that thing (5-speed 4x4 3rd gens are getting harder and harder to come by). Worth it though.
Tell me about it... spent months looking for one. Gave up and bought a Jeep :facepalm
Also, I wish Tirerack sold Toyos! I've been loving the Open Country 2s, did great out there and on the road they are pretty damn good for the price point. Had to go through...Treaddepot...ugh. Lol
Join the club, buddy. Actually, there are Toyos, just not Open Countrys. And actually there does appear to be 2 sizes for the Open Country. I'm honestly not sure what that's about... :dunno
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Toyo&tireModel=Open+Country+AT+II&sidewall=Blackwall&partnum=87SR7OCAT2&tab=Sizes
But I've been thrilled with the AT2s. K02s are awesome as well, as long as you have an extra kidney to sell. Luckily there's plenty of good options :)
BADCLOWN
04-05-2016, 01:42 PM
Your brothers taco is AWESOME
I got the KO2s in a pretty reasonable size, so the price wasn't too bad. About $1200CAD out the door through a local Costco, and I expect to get about $450CAD for my OEM tires on Craigslist. I remember paying about $1600CAD for a set of Michelin Super Sports for my 335i, so these are almost inexpensive by comparison.
Nice T4R, NoVAphotog! That's the last truly good looking T4R IMO. Very capable, too.
theothersawyer
04-05-2016, 05:37 PM
Your brothers taco is AWESOME
He has had some sweet cars! The Taco is pretty baller! His FJ before this was equally as awesome! (Same wheels)
He went off roading this weekend!
http://i105.photobucket.com/albums/m231/GaAsSlugger22/08AC07DA-C6D5-4590-A8FE-BA96D50C5B03_zpsauadot6u.jpg (http://s105.photobucket.com/user/GaAsSlugger22/media/08AC07DA-C6D5-4590-A8FE-BA96D50C5B03_zpsauadot6u.jpg.html)
Okay, no more thread jacking! Sorry!!
I'm envious of that King suspension setup! Some of the best on the market.
Do you know what brand those sliders are, and whether your bro likes them? I'm going to get a set of sliders sometime in the summer.
FL116
04-06-2016, 09:22 AM
I'm envious of that King suspension setup! Some of the best on the market.
Do you know what brand those sliders are, and whether your bro likes them? I'm going to get a set of sliders sometime in the summer.
All of these photos make me want a taco..... or two, or three hahaha seriously sweet trucks!
theothersawyer
04-06-2016, 11:13 AM
I'm envious of that King suspension setup! Some of the best on the market.
Do you know what brand those sliders are, and whether your bro likes them? I'm going to get a set of sliders sometime in the summer.
Yeah, he splurged for the nice suspension (he always does!)
As far as the sliders go, he just put them on and that photo above was his first time taking it out with them! He says he likes them! He has these!
https://www.allprooffroad.com/tech-info-mainmenu-63/model/16-tacoma-mainmenu-113/615
ryankokesh
04-06-2016, 11:23 AM
You all suck. I'm going home.
Tires arrived. Getting them installed on Friday eve!
Yeah, he splurged for the nice suspension (he always does!)
As far as the sliders go, he just put them on and that photo above was his first time taking it out with them! He says he likes them! He has these!
https://www.allprooffroad.com/tech-info-mainmenu-63/model/16-tacoma-mainmenu-113/615
Ah, All-Pro. Yup, know them.
You all suck. I'm going home.
We'll still be here when you're home ;)
ryankokesh
04-06-2016, 02:23 PM
Tires arrived. Getting them installed on Friday eve!
Yay!
Wait, so Thursday?
Yay!
Wait, so Thursday?
Am I missing a joke? lol
Friday = Friday (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfVsfOSbJY0).
BMWCurves
04-06-2016, 04:40 PM
Am I missing a joke? lol
Friday = Friday (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfVsfOSbJY0).
You say Friday eve, I assume short for "evening" but I think Ryan read it as Friday eve, like New Year's Eve i.e. the day before.
ryankokesh
04-06-2016, 05:01 PM
You say Friday eve, I assume short for "evening" but I think Ryan read it as Friday eve, like New Year's Eve i.e. the day before.
He's got it ^
Sometimes I make stoopid jokes.
The KO2s are on!
https://i.imgur.com/0vbci3x.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/xzK7qke.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/A0d9umZ.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/jbjUavz.jpg
The larger size (265/70 vs 265/65 stock) adds a 1" difference in size, with 1/2" axle lift. The truck feels entirely brand-new. Getting in now requires some some climbing effort (and I'm 6'), and it feels like it was given a huge lift - very strange/unexpected. The ride is fantastic. Soooo comfortable. Feels like new suspension. According to the paperwork Costco gave me, they only put 29PSI in the tires, so that may be part of the comfort reason. I'll be checking and bumping that up shortly.
Crappy iPhone pic, but the light was nice:
https://i.imgur.com/yGAXQXa.jpg
Also replaced interior map & dome lights w/ white LEDs - much nicer!
ryankokesh
04-12-2016, 08:27 AM
Love it!
theothersawyer
04-12-2016, 08:34 AM
Looks awesome!
Started building the drawers/sleeping platform. Got most of the frame done today.
https://i.imgur.com/K8BXSHm.jpg
Need to find a source for some long and sturdy drawer slides in about ~50" length, and a few recessed items (tie-down hooks, latches, etc.).
BMWCurves
04-17-2016, 08:07 AM
Very cool, can't wait to see what this looks like when you finish. Document it, I really like to look through build photos.
theothersawyer
04-17-2016, 12:00 PM
I'm excited to see it as well!
Took off a bunch of the stuff I've got temporarily stored on top just to take photos for you guys :)
This is the front section:
https://i.imgur.com/FAsf8NB.jpg
The large rectangular hole is meant for storage. I may eventually use it to secure a second car battery and other electronics. The top/bed platform will swing up (towards the front of the bed) to allow access to this section. The two smaller (square~ish) sections on the sides have u-bolts mounted for use as a tie-down spot (the truck has tie-down spots in the same area).
The two "side" walls of the main section are joined via a half-lap joint with the panel running across the bed. I made one of the two joints a tad wider (1-2mm) than I should have, so I decided to add some pocket holes/screws to secure things better. Each joint has a total of 6 pocket screws (only three are visible in the photo - the other three in that joint are on the bottom part of the perpendicular piece).
The board at the very front was an afterthought addition to allow the top platform piece to swing open from that side, allowing for easier access.
I've started mounting some corner brackets that will give extra support for the top platform pieces.
Another angle:
https://i.imgur.com/UOs7WLv.jpg
One of the four u-bolts:
https://i.imgur.com/xr7N04I.jpg
Once I find the appropriate-sized hardware to go between the bolt and the truck's tie-down (Home Depot is out of the large eye-eye turnbuckles that I want), I will push the u-bolt as far in as it'll go, locktite the nuts, and cut off the excess thread with a hacksaw (to prevent it from hitting the tailgate). I'm considering recessing the nuts & backing plate, but think keeping more plywood thickness may be a better idea. Another idea is to double-up the plywood to which the u-bolt is attached, and recess the hardware from the outside.
This is the full view, complete with excess/unused materials and tools:
https://i.imgur.com/tWVNNoK.jpg
The first two panels that will go on top are on my balcony. I have used Thompson Watersealant on one side of each panel and am waiting for that to cure (24hrs) before doing the other sides. I'll then cover these two in outdoor carpet (same stuff that I used for my dog platform) and mount them. Carpet's thickness throws off all dimensions, so I plan to make, wrap & mount one section at a time.
Have I mentioned that I don't have a workshop or garage, and did all this work quite literally on the side of the road, next to a railroad, in the industrial part of my city? A dozen pieces of stacked plywood, half a Home Depot's-worth of tools, dust flying everywhere, me in a facemask with powertools in hand.... I had some very interesting looks from people driving by. Even a bylaw dude drove by, but didn't stop :D.
https://i.imgur.com/mETVk5c.jpg
Started looking around for actual drawer slides and am very disappointed at the prices I'm seeing. Seems impossible to get 60" slides for anything under ~$220USD... and that would be just one set - I need two!
Coincidentally I have some unused plastic storage boxes that would be a great fit in the room I left for the drawers. Not quite as tall, but otherwise they'd work nicely. I think I may give that setup a shot in the short term and see how it works.
I love Vancouver. Just can't get enough of this shit (NSFW audio):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouxB4T8AswM
theothersawyer
04-20-2016, 07:10 AM
Wow! Why in the world did they think it was okay for them to go? People are dumb! I've been wanting to buy a dash cam!
Wow! Why in the world did they think it was okay for them to go? People are dumb! I've been wanting to buy a dash cam!
Because Vancouver is full of narcissistic, holier-than-thou assholes without a shred of decency or common sense. Many people would be perfectly okay with you losing a couple limbs if that meant they could get their latte five seconds faster. And there is zero practical driver education, zero police enforcement of anything actually dangerous, and the only requirement to getting a license is being able to breathe.
Don't put off getting a dash cam. Some of the best money (cam + card = $75) you'll ever spend. I used to think "I'll get one next month, next month, next month," then a semi truck pitt-maneuvered me at 60mph... on a bridge. You'd think that after nearly killing me, he'd take responsibility for his actions, but this is Vancouver we're talking about, so he blamed me for his lane change. I've ran front + rear dash cams ever since. Don't wait until it happens to you.
---
On a happier note, I've carpeted the two plywood panels in that last photo, and will install (or at least test-fit) them on the frame this weekend. I need to rout a couple openings on the narrower panel for some cupboard-style hinges, reinforce the frame (essentially double it) where the u-bolts are, cut + mount the middle divider, mount a strip at the very front, drill pocket-screw holes along the middle divider and the two sides, and then seal (waterproof) the whole thing. Then it'll be mostly ready for assembly, with only a few top-panels outstanding.
Pulled out of the parking lot yesterday to go do some more work on the platform, but accidentally left my tailgate and canopy open. Realized this less than block away, pulled over and saw that I had lost ~$450 of brand new power tools. Circled around, but someone had already picked them up. Literally less than two minutes later. Circled around three times, walked the route, no dice. No one knows anything, no signs anywhere. Great. Will be filing a claim with VISA (they cover lost items purchased less than 90 days ago), but they're already trying to pre-deny this under some "due diligence" loophole.
Being without a circular saw puts this project on hold, so I'll have to order another one tomorrow.
Today I mounted the "european" cabinet hinges and realized my front cubby's "roof" couldn't open all the way as it hit the side rails, so I made the necessary cut-outs, re-covered in carpet, and added handles on both sides (so it can be lifted/opened through the windoors).
https://i.imgur.com/1z2kgi7.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/uD0w8Go.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/KPr5Sts.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/ZNbtO9I.jpg
As far as the drawers/boxes go, I've settled on making one wide drawer using skateboard bearings (ordered) and a 1" square steel tube. Cheapest route, and a single drawer will maximize available space. With this approach I won't be able to have a middle support for the top platform, but I sat on that large (unmounted) piece of the platform today and it barely flexed under my entire 190lb weight. Laying down, with weight spread across multiple platforms will likely see zero flex.
fredo
04-24-2016, 07:17 PM
Sorry to hear about the lost tools, hope Visa agrees to pay. Please post info about your $75 camera when you have chance. TIA.
Sorry to hear about the lost tools, hope Visa agrees to pay. Please post info about your $75 camera when you have chance. TIA.
Camera is a G1WH. They're all over eBay for about $50 (last time I checked). I use a class 10, 32GB memory card - $25. To hardwire it into the vehicle you'll also need a 12V -> 5V step-down converter, which are also all over ebay for about $4-5.
Not the best quality (don't expect to read license plates unless you're stopped behind the vehicle you're interested in), but it'll more than do the job to show what happened, who did what - that's all I really want. Also note that this one does not have a GPS sensor and thus does not show speed on the video - this was an intentional choice. I would not get a dash cam that added speed to the video. An insurance company can be quick to lay half the blame for an accident on you if you admit to doing fitty-five in a fitty-fo.
Did some camping over the weekend:
https://i.imgur.com/badfilo.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/GRcOmG2.jpg
Now to unpack, wash the truck and give it its first wax.
ryankokesh
05-02-2016, 08:35 AM
Noice!!
Beautiful spot you found there. Did you sleep in the back or bring a tent?
A tent for now. You can actually see it behind my truck in the first photo.
The lake was awesome, but at 12am some clowns on ATVs showed up from some neighbouring lake/site and spent the next 5 hours ripping up/down trails literally 20-30 metres away from our site. Trying to talk some common sense into them didn't help. Didn't get much sleep that night and decided to not wait for round two, so my buddy and I took off the following evening.
I think I spent about an hour with the pressure washer yesterday. Amazing how much mud/dirt/grass built up on the undercarriage.
BMWCurves
05-02-2016, 08:56 AM
That spot and setup looks great. Sorry about the ATVers, that sounds miserable.
After the wash and quick-wax yesterday:
https://i.imgur.com/2hjKYQa.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/qRvSQiX.jpg
Too bad I didn't have anything to dress the tires. Would have made it so much better!
theothersawyer
05-02-2016, 11:39 AM
It looks right at home at that campsite! Looking good!
My ProClip USA cellphone mount holder finally arrived. I've used their products in my last two cars (three if you count the Tacoma) and am a huge fan. Expensive, but so worth it.
https://i.imgur.com/60ZTVeR.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/ijz4vRt.jpg
Replacement tools have also arrived, so I'll be getting back to working on the drawer after I come back from next week's work trip to New Orleans.
Making some slow, but steady progress on the platform...
Added a small strip at the very front to square-off the box and add a little bit more rigidity. This fits beneath the "grooves" of the bed's floor, so it doesn't take away from the (future) drawer's size.
Also cut the remaining three top-panel pieces. The two smaller ones match the shape/curvature of the truck's various curves and bends.
https://i.imgur.com/6hCffTv.jpg
Took the entire thing up to my patio and covered it in spar urethane to protect it from... everything.
https://i.imgur.com/ELlb1hH.jpg
Cut the drawer's front, got the pull-latch I wanted, cut/routered the necessary openings and mounted it overtop of carpet. Also completely carpeted this piece.
https://i.imgur.com/JjET2tP.jpg
Back view.
https://i.imgur.com/EnL5ts9.jpg
Also moved the front tie-down u-bolts from the outer "flap" panels to the main lengthwise panels. This will be sturdier, and I've got (long-term) plans to add some 120v/12v/USB outlets in these flap panels, so I want that space clear and open. With the box squared-off I also realized these flaps are a bit too narrow, so I'll most likely re-make them once everything else is done.
https://i.imgur.com/Qu5O1B0.jpg
The bearings have arrived, and I've bought the 1" square, steel tubing, along with all hardware necessary to make the drawer slides. Hoping to make the drawer itself this weekend, and then finish everything off.
Bearings... bearings everywhere. Tight grouping towards the front for extra support when the drawer is extended, wider spacing everywhere else.
Massive overkill? Why not...
https://i.imgur.com/HtEBcMI.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/akjGOUq.jpg
BMWCurves
05-21-2016, 07:32 PM
Very cool. Looking forward to seeing how far down the rabbit hole you go with this. Once you get that itch...
Today I made the drawer, sealed it with Thomson's WaterSeal, and carpeted most of it. Also finished mounting all bearings on the frame.
I think/hope tomorrow this project will be done and mounted in the truck. Fingers crossed!
Remaining tasks:
- finish carpeting inside of drawer
- mount steel tubing on sides of drawer
- attach drawer front to drawer
- carpet the remaining "large" top-platform piece
- carpet the remaining two corner top-platform pieces
- mount euro-hingers on the two corner top-platform pieces + attach to frame
- re-make + seal + carpet two flaps on the frame (either side of drawer front)
- vacuum & wash truck bed
- mount & attach frame
- mount top panels to frame's "corner" brackets
- insert drawer, take photos :D
... on second thought, having made this list... this might stretch out into Monday.
95% done.
Turned around for 5 minutes to take a break, and someone decided to test out the drawer:
https://i.imgur.com/JUsPbxB.jpg
Mounted frame in the truck. Think that's enough bearings? :D
https://i.imgur.com/M3HIClj.jpg
Attachment to the front D-rings:
https://i.imgur.com/hjxGfby.jpg
Attachment to the rear D-rings:
https://i.imgur.com/5xvDj98.jpg
Partially slid out. Got to add safety hook to prevent accidentally sliding the drawer all the way out:
https://i.imgur.com/s5ZunYP.jpg
Closed:
https://i.imgur.com/0JSRVEj.jpg
View through driver's side windoor:
https://i.imgur.com/uvAqBa7.jpg
I've got the top plates for the pocket holes cut, just need to wrap them in carpet and mount the euro hinges (tomorrow).
The fitment is incredibly tight - I don't even need the latch I put in place. A simple chest handle would have been just fine in this case. I'll leave it as is for the time being. I also should have made the drawer's front sit a bit higher as it does catch on the tailgate when being slid out, but it's really not too bad, and the part of the tailgate that gets rubbed is plastic and easily removable/replaceable, so I'll leave this as is, too.
Overall very happy with how it turned out!
BMWCurves
05-23-2016, 06:46 AM
Looking good
TigerTater
05-23-2016, 11:02 AM
Super cool man. Nice craftsmanship
Thanks, guys.
Officially all done!
I put 1/2" blocks of wood to act as spacers in the very front to prevent the drawer from dragging on the tailgate - much better now. Also carpeted + mounted the pocket hole platform bits.
Everything open:
https://i.imgur.com/AqEwuBM.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/fuE2fBC.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/4Ve5AW8.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/pmTTBDK.jpg
BMWCurves
05-23-2016, 08:28 PM
Looks awesome! Really nicely done.
Do you have a mattress/camping pad you're planning to use with it?
Plans for items to store in there regularly?
Thanks!
I normally bring two mattresses when I go camping: a fairly large Thermarest that I give the dog, and a slightly smaller, yet much more compact and better insulating mattress for myself. Since the dog will now be sleeping in the rear seats area, I think I'll use the Thermarest for myself, and keep it in the drawer. Another option would be to find a fairly thin, double-sized mattress that I can keep rolled up (with a sleeping bag rolled up right in it) and just roll out whenever I want it. Unfortunately most of the thinner mattresses are memory-foam toppers, and I can't use memory-foam for something that'll spend most of its life rolled up. I'll have to look around, I guess.
I've already got the following stored on a permanent basis (spread between the cab's storage and the new bed storage options):
- 12ft tow rope with metal hooks on both ends; used this to tow out a few buddies using my previous ML350
- 30ft tow rope (proper one - no metal on either end)
- D-ring recovery shackle and hitch adapter (truck has OEM front recovery point)
- tow hitch/ball insert
- compressor (cheap, crappy, old - wish list includes a new one)
- OEM jack / tools (wish list includes a hi-lift jack)
- tons of fuses; multi-tool; waterproof matches
- first aid kit
- wet wipes (indispensable!)
- paper towels
- small fire extinguisher
- power inverter
- full-size axe
- small, folding shovel
- extra leash & collar for the dog
I'll be mounting the axe on the bed's rail (either at the head or one of the sides) in the coming days/week. Need to do a Home Depot run to pick up some hardware.
The storage drawer conveniently fits four of these plastic totes (https://www.homedepot.ca/en/home/p.rubbermaid-388l-clear-clever-store-tote.1000676342.html), with room to spare below and all around (and I already have plenty of these totes at home/unused). I plan on using one of these to permanently hold a "kitchen," another for camping essentials, and probably one more for additional random camping stuff. Maybe a dedicated bag with emergency canned goods, fire starters, batteries, water, etc.
I need to get a small grill to use in the kitchen tote (my BBQ is too big, and I don't want to carry it around anyways), as well as some cast-iron skillets and some dedicated camping cutlery, knives, etc. I also want to get a few new camping chairs that'll be in the drawer permanently, too. Another thought I had is that I have a 4ft x 2ft folding table that I bring camping. When folded it's about an inch, maybe two inches thick, and I think this table + tote on top should clear the drawer's vertical room, so that would be great to have permanently, too.
The whole idea is to have as little un/packing to do (when leave to/coming back from camping) as possible. The less time I spend un/packing, the more time & energy I can spend on drinking beers on a remote river bank/lake.
One more mini-project I need to do is set up bug-nets for my cab's rear windows (so the dog gets fresh air at night), as well as for the space between the cab's rear window and my canopy's front window. I've got ideas for both, just need to find the time to make those happen.
BMWCurves
05-24-2016, 06:27 AM
Thanks for the info! I have no plans to buy a truck and set it up for camping, but if I did, this would be my first stop. It sounds very well organized.
Mounted the axe:
https://i.imgur.com/5QKbv9R.jpg
Created a bug screen for one of the rear doors by "framing" the screen material with duct tape. Quick, easy, works like a charm:
https://i.imgur.com/hfUHXvY.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/r33cRXf.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/bjZvDux.jpg
Got the truck detailed.
All pinstripes are 100% gone - even the ones you could feel with your nail. Not even a trace remaining of them. Deep shine all over. Truck did not look this good when it was brand new on the dealer's floor.
Now I'm tempted to bubble wrap it and never drive it again.
Crappy iPhone pics on a cloudy~ish day:
https://i.imgur.com/zb5S2T2.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/LDZETAW.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/JfdfqWh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/dFp7g36.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/uLzQ6fd.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/6gO9lou.jpg
Ended up selling the drawer platform as I want to go in a different direction - bed slide (getting installed tomorrow).
I ordered sliders about 1.5 months ago and today they finally went on the truck:
https://i.imgur.com/ePvXrya.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/NNJLB0n.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/e2p0gbL.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/cgNyfDG.jpg
In other news, ICON Stage 4 suspension kit is on the way and should be getting installed in early August. Wasn't going to upgrade suspension for a while (even though an upgrade is definitely needed!), but there was a 20% off deal and I couldn't pass it up.
Also ordered an ARB 63QT fridge (again on a bit of a sale - free travel case & remote temperature sensor) and Renology 100W solar panel (will be mounted on the roof). The solar panel will be hooked up to a deep cycle battery in a marine battery case, and the fridge will run off a 12V from that case. The battery I have in mind should run the fridge for 3.5 days without any additional power, and with the solar panel, more or less indefinitely.
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