Texas Taco lover with base model 2014

I am new, too. Started from the bottom, now we are here. Bought a sort of low-rider styled Tacoma.
She came to us with some very unfortunate 20 inch rims that were lug-centric, not hub-centric. So above 40 mph, the steering wheel started to shimmy. About 60 mph, it was shaking too much for me to bear. I had to back off the throttle.

That was when I discovered this wonderful site and I read for many days about steering wheel shake, and other Taco suggestions.

Bought Toyota wheels, lug-centric, and got joy.
No more crazy shakes. There is a barely noticeable butt vibration around 70 mph now. But all is well.

Started thinking about going on a road trip. I wonder if I would put valuable stuff in the back, under the cloth tonneau cover... Tacoma World classified ads to the rescue!

Met a new friend on here who wanted to get rid of his slick A.R.E. CX Classic. Wow, his truck looks superbly and tastefully modified! So I jumped at the chance to become one of the two-tone clan.

We're cooking now! I can drive on the highway and keep my junk secure. To follow my adventures, check for my thread in the second-generation Tacoma forum, where I talk about installing Sumo Springs.

Anyway, love being here, thanks for your input, y'all. Have a great weekend. Cheers.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome to TacomaWorld

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome to TW!

 

I started digging around under the hood, in the area where the bumper and grille are connected to the headlights. I see evidence of destruction and repair in the area. Lots of parts are held together with zip-ties. I started by replacing those plastic press-in connectors that were missing. Looks like a lot of welding has been done on the frame. <sigh>

I will post pics, pretty soon, perhaps.

 

Scraps have been used to fabricate new mounts here. The original plastic is broken.

Is this a typical way to attach Bull bars? These were on the truck when we got it, but I am dubious. Looks like a damage multiplier if you bumped something.

Lots of welding has happened to the front end. Wondering if I should clean up this rust and paint this area.

 

I installed the blue 500 lbs Sumo Springs. Pics here: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/sumo-springs-on-5-lug-base-model-taco.723031/

 

I connected and tested the hitch and trailer lights on our tiny teardrop, as shown here: https://www.tacomaworld.com/posts/25791123/

 

Another member here, JGallo asked me if I have any build plans. That is an excellent idea. I should make a plan instead of just letting whimsy decide the path.

Summary of modifications so far:

Intermittent wipers.
Sumo Springs.
Wheels, Tires.
Camper shell, carpet kit.
Hitch tightener
LED License plate lights
Rear view mirror with built-in colored led map lights
Cup Holder insert - bought from a member here: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...-yeti-hydroflask-travel-mugs-and-more.630617/

Upcoming modifications:

I bought a brake light tap wiring harness for the camper brake light. https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/plug-and-play-brake-light-taps.707529/

 

Welcome!

 

hey there welcome to tw!

 

Welcome!

 

Getting somewhere with this Taco truck now ...

We loaded up the paddle board and kayak for an adventure.

 

Toss the bull bar in the scrap heap.

Yes, clean up the rust and protect.

Spring for some underrail bed lighting from @mattgecko

You say those are Toyota wheels. From what model? Not familiar with them.........

(Also a 5 lugger here, always looking for ideas)

 

Those 17" steel wheels were laying around at my mechanic's shop. He says he thinks they are probably from a RAV4 or maybe a Highlander.

I have been happy with the Michelin P-rated tires. This is my first time driving with Michelin tires. My previous experience with those was building houses - Earthships.