TB135k Build Thread

Ive been a member on here for a while, somehow I got locked out of my other account (TACOMABOSS). I used to have a 1996 Tacoma, build thread is floating around here somewhere but there isn't much to see there. I sold that truck for a dodge, big mistake. Sold the dodge for a 3rd gen 4Runner which has been awesome but Ive been missing having a truck so I bought a 2018 Tacoma TRD Offroad 6 Speed Manual. Currently installing some goodies, info is down below. The plan is to modify it to do some overland exploring/ camping while incorporating dirt bikes. Ive been doing some research on the Tradesman camper shells. Looks like that might be a good route

Installed:
Fox 2.5 extended travel coilovers
Total Chaos UCAs
Dakar Leafs +330 lbs
Fox 2.0 Performance Series 2-3" of lift
OME Ubolts
OME Bushings ESCS047
Dobinson graseable leaf spring bolts
285/75/16 BFG KO2s
16x8 Method Standard 4.5 B/S

Ordered:
Wheelers extended brake lines (back ordered)
Faux TRD Pro grill


Future:
Sliders with kickout and filler plates
Front and rear bumpers (not sure what material yet, possibly aluminum)
Some sort of camping setup that works well for my needs: easily removable i.e. not
perminatly in or on bed, and something that would be a good fit for camping with dirt bikes.

Pictures are coming, although there isn't much to see right now.

 

Reserved

 

Sounds like it will be a great build. Can’t wait to see it.

 

Word. Glad you're not going RTT

 

Do you have any recommendations? I was thinking about a soft camper shell because I can easily fold it down and still have the bed space

 

You have a short bed because of the 6speed manual right? It's really whatever you're comfortable with at the end of the day. Personally there's much more affordable options than a 3500 RTT. Soft campers aren't a bad idea nor is a regular tent. I've slept in the bed of my truck without issue so for me I don't always need a tent.

Just try a few things out and see what works best for you. There's plenty of guys with different setups on here. Just gotta find one that appeals to you!

 

What's wrong with having an rtt? Sure is alot easier than trying to find level ground for a ground tent.

 

Finding a place for a tent or any other arrangement sure is a lot easier than finding level ground for your entire vehicle and RTT.

 

I have to disagree with that. If there's no level ground all I have to do is use blocks, rocks or dig down some for 4 tires vs trying to level a whole spot for a ground tent. I've been camping multiple times where we make camp and it's pretty uneven and I have alot easier time than the people who have ground tents. I'm not saying rtt is the best just saying if your using your truck outside of a camp ground it's alot easier.

 

You sound triggered man. Good for you for buying an expensive top heavy camper for your truck that changes the entire ergonomics of the vehicle. Digging and using rocks or blocks sounds like a bigger pain in the butt than throwing down a pop up tent. But hey to each their own. Me personally, all I need is a wool blanket. And a some dry ground. Sure is the economical way to do it.

 

Lol not at all. It added a little bit of weight but definitely worth it. And you can find good deals on them .
I prefer to sleep mostly level so throwing down a ground tent isn't always an option. And idk about you but I don't always camp when it's perfect weather. I'm not trying to be sleeping outside when a rainstorm starts during the night.

 

I literally don't care what you sleep on. My opinion is RTTs are an expensive waste of money and I like the OP doesn't intend on wasting money on one. You like them, great. Telling me you disagree and giving me reasons why you like yours contributes absolutely nothing to the topic of this thread nor does it sway my opinion on RTTs. You're acting like one of those vegans who overhears someone else mention the word and having to mention you are one and giving all the reasons why being a vegan, or in this case, owning an RTT is great, when in reality no one asked and no one cares. Good for you.

 

Nobody even mentioned rtts so your the one that brought them up and I dont think he ever said he wasn't going to go that route.

 

Update: front suspension done. Coilovers and UCAs mounted up.
Waiting on leaf spring bushings, greasable leaf spring bolts, extended brake lines, and U bolts.

 

Started the cab mount chop process today. Definitely an uneasy feeling cutting into a brand new truck, but I’ll need it since I’m planning on running 285s. Hopefully get the plates welded in tomorrow. Then I can order my tires and have them put on the methods
Also still waiting on a few parts so I can do the rear suspension.

 

Update:
Finally finished the suspension. Ended up cranking up the fox coilovers because they settled quite a bit. I was at 21” from center hub to bottom of fender flare after they settled. So I cranked them up 11 turns which gave me 3/4” more threads showing. Now my center hub to bottom of fender flare is 23.
For the rear I installed the Dakar leafs +330 lbs. and I used the Dobinson greaseable shackel bolts (well worth it) here’s some pictures of the final product. I’m hoping the leaf springs settle a little bit.

 

I really like the look of these wheels on your truck. Looks great

 

Thank you!