Jake’s Taco build and other B.S.

Ok so truck is dried out and back together. Everything seems to be working fine with the exception of the front facing camera. I can’t find any information on the camera wiring system so I think I might bring it to Toyota and let them figure it out next week. Also was working fine before I pulled the seats/etc out so I’ll be sure to retrace my steps and make sure I didn’t leave anything disconnected, which I’m quite sure I didn’t. Worth a shot though.

 

Well after some messing around I was able to get all electronics working properly again. Not so lucky with the front end. Had to replace the CV shaft, pinion seal and axle seal. Installed the ECGS bushing as well. Took forever because I had knee surgery a couple weeks ago and I’m moving slow af. Front end is feeling tight again, time for bumpers and armor.

 

Still trying to decide on bumpers and armor so I’ve knocked out a few small projects in the meantime.

started worth mounting a CB radio along with a caliraised antenna mount. Smooth install and will be heading up to Denver next week to get the antenna tuned. Here is a pic of trying to find the best place to mount it. It’s not ideal but there really is no good spot for a radio this size. May switch to a smaller box later.

 

Also installed some Total Chaos Fab bed stiffeners. Since I’m running my CB antenna on a tail light bracket I had to shim between the stiffener and the bedside but it worked fine. These stiffeners are bomber. Here’s a couple pics.

 

Grabbed a few things from @MESO. Real quality stuff! I’m digging these lights and can’t wait for the dome light to come back in stock!

 

Took a ride out to cripple creek this weekend and got the truck muddy as hell. Took one snap half way through spraying it down.

 

Haven’t done much with the Taco in the last couple weeks except for tinting the mirror markers and the front emblem. I got enough tint to mess around with the headlights but I suck at putting it on. Already ruined a few pieces but here is a couple pics of messing around in the development.

 

Picked up a welder last weekend and started wiring up 240v in the garage. Hoping to get quarantined soon so I can start working on sliders.

 

Also front bumper coming soon-ish? Had to take advantage of that corona virus fire sale! Anyone bought or used a come up winch? I feel like it would fit with a bit more space than a warm but I’m not completely sure.

 

Bro, great call on the spacers! I installed the HS 1/4” spacers the other day and backed the pre-load off 3 complete turns. Much improved performance as far as the harsh drop/clunk noise.

 

Sweet build man! Really, quality work!

 

Thanks man! I appreciate it and hopefully lots more to come!

 

Time for an update. Finally found a place where I could buy a large Argon/CO2 tank for the welder. Also sourced a 4x8 sheet of 3/16 metal for building skids.

 

Pulled the crappy factory skids off along with the two stamped brackets that run from the crossmember up to the rad support. Took a lot of time just measuring and planning but I was able to start getting a good idea going.

 

I made a template for the bends I wanted to make and started cutting the new skid plate out. I’m whiskey bending because I don’t have a press break but it’s coming along nicely.

 

Hoping to get it all mocked up and bolted to the truck tomorrow. Then I can finish weld it and start on the trans and t-case skids. MTF.

 

Finished up all my cuts and bends today. Put
A few tacks on the edges of the bends to keep everything in shape and then went ahead and put the skid plate up under the truck. Mixed feelings on it so far. I have it bolted on but I may need to try and push it back further for a little more clearance. Right now I have about 3/16” gap between the front diff and the new skid so I think the angles are right but I feel like it should come back a little farther. I’ll attach a bunch of pics. Any input is welcom.

 

Got it mostly bolted up but of course after all that fab work I chowder up the drilling of one of the holes. I suck. But at least it’s bolted up and hanging on the truck. Certainly MTF

 

Now that's something I can relate to... lol

Good work so far

Just oval out both sides so "its supposed to be that way"

 

Thanks! I’m gonna have to get out there and test it out/do a little more measuring but, I think it should work much better than that thin stock one.