Yoshi Taco Build (stock-ish overland/exploring focused)

Hello!

Been lurking for a while, figured I might as well start a build thread... if anything just to keep track of what I've done, pics of adventures, and future plans for the Taco named Yoshi.

Why Yoshi.... because he's green!

Don't be expecting anything too spectacular... I am looking to keep things simple. This is my DD and weekend adventurer. My final goal is to have a fairly capable rig for overloading and camping/fishing/hunting trips.

Here is the Taco shortly after purchase (Timberland Mica 2010 DCLB SR5, 4x4, Auto, 4.0L 145,000km):


Right now it sits pretty bone stock... I've got BFG KO2s on it at the moment, thats about it.

Shortly after purchasing the truck, I started really getting into the overland/self reliance/camping scene with 4WD action on youtube being a big inspiration for me (even though it is Australian based).

After contemplating between a RTT or Camper shell for months... I couldn't pass up an offer @tacoma16 had on a Leer topper for sale.


Can't stress how nice this guy is. Great to talk to, and easy going. Was a pleasure to meet you, and hoping to see you again in the future.


First thing on my list of things to do was install some bedside braces. From my research, I didn't want any flex occurring. This cap is also a heavy beast. Ordered some bedside stiffners made by @At The Helm. Had them in for a few months now, seems to be doing the job just fine. Wired up the 3rd brake light while I gad the tail lights out.

@tacoma16 had a pretty awesome setup already wired in (switch panel, inverter, solar charge controller and blue-sea fuse box). He did some CLEAN work, fantastic quality. However, the setup wasn't quite right for what I had planned, but I had a great platform to work with. So I did some moving around and re-wiring, as well as added some lights in.


I wanted the switch panel/charge station accessible from inside the cap, as I will be building a sleep platform, and sleeping inside the cap. I also wanted some lighting in the tool box side, as well as a good light inside the cap.



I've got solar wired in (mounted on the roof rack). So far, I am digging the setup.



Future Plans:
- better tie-down sistem for battery.
- Wire up as dual battery system, so I can charge "house battery" via alternator as well as solar.
- Sleep platform build (toying with different ideas/designs)
- Rack mounted camping lights
- AAL or Dakar leaf back. Got some sagging happening.
- Cap removal, refresh and repaint (maybe colour match). Lots of silicone to cleanup and many scuffs/scratches.
- Small lift (likely OME) with 33" skinny tires.
- Skids and sliders
- Bumper (front and rear) or a receiver mounted winch.

 

For my sleep system inside the truck, this is the idea I have been toying around with the most:

I really like the idea of the versatility it offers for having headspace with the sleep mat lowered, or the storage underneath when in the raised position.

PS. Found on google image search... if this is your build please let me know so I can tag you, and possible ask a few questions. Haha