Off Road Chops

I'm fairly new to TW, owning a Taco and off roading. I find lots of value in these forums and especially those that describe and rate the AZ trails. One of the many questions I have relates to understanding the relationship between and the capabilities of a stock TRD Off-road Taco and the trail rating.Many of the trails have been rated on a 1 to 5 scale but I'm not sure at what rating number one requires a modified truck. I'm familiar with some of the trails in Sedona for example that are rated 3 - 3.5. Take the Broken Arrow or Soldiers Pass. I hike those trails and watch the jeep tours drive them. I try to imagine my stock Taco doing these but think some of the features beyond my trucks current design capability. Am I selling the stock truck short? Is there a rule of thumb like stock should stay below a 3. What mods are recommended as the must haves? Just some lift??? If so how much?
Thanks in advance for your thoughtful feedback

 

Sounds like you're being overly cautious.
Take it out and see what it will do, I bet it will surprise you.

 

Well, what you can do in your stock Tacoma kind of depends on your willingness to accept damage. If you're just starting out I'd start on the lowest rated trails and work your way up. I sold a totally built Jeep to get my Tacoma so I have a little bit of a jaundiced view of the trucks capabilities on the harder stuff. The approach, break over, and departure angles are all pretty poor compared to a Jeep. If I was going to wheel my truck I'd be putting armor on all 3 of those places. BUT, that said, my off-road will go a lot of places without any problem. I'm not familiar with Arizona trails but my jeep has been on every trail in moab. I wouldn't hesitate to take my truck on anything rated 4 or less: http://www.rr4w.com/ratings.cfm

Beyond the capabilities of your truck it is really best for a beginner to go out with more experienced folks. I went on a number of Jeep safaris and the opportunity to learn was huge. And, when you go out alone, (be honest we all do it) pack a survival kit. Like you I wheel in the desert so my kit includes water, food, tools, and water. (yes lots of water) I alway make sure someone knows where I'm going and when I'll be back.

Have, fun!

 

I'd say a stock 4x4 Tacoma will do up to a 3.0 as long as you take your time and use common sense, although there is always a minor chance of a dent or scratch, especially around the bumpers, underside, and rocker panels. At 3.5 it becomes really helpful to have a little more lift, little bigger tires, and some armor. 4.0 is pretty technical and requires decent mods and skill to do successfully.

 

You can do Soldiers Pass stock. You might have trouble on the steps going to the sinkhole however...Broken Arrow has more trickier spots, and it's longer. Take it slow and use a spotter.

 

Dave, I have to say a good spotter who knows the area is a great asset when you're getting to know your vehicle

A stock truck should probably stick to 3.0 or less with a familiar driver. Without armor, mistakes become very expensive and, worse yet, can leave you stranded in the wilderness overnight.