2017 Tacoma SR work/expo build

2017 Tacoma SR access cab 4x4 5 speed build

Purchased 12/15/17 One Toyota of Oakland

This is my build thread for my 2017 SR tacoma. My plan is to build my truck for expedition/camping and also as an everyday work truck. The idea is that these two activities can work together to allow for a versatile build.

Cosmetics
1. TRD Pro grill from e-bay

Armor
1. RCI sliders 5 degree angle
2. Pelfreybilt rear bumper

Wheels and Tires
1. 16"x7" Steel spares, painted flat black
2. BFG KO2 235/85/R16

Performance/Mechanical
1. LCE Header
2. AFE intake

Interior
1. OCD center counsel organizer
2. Cover kind neoprene seat covers.

Camper
1. 3/4" plywood build out with bins and storage compartments
2. Softtopper canopy

 

Subbed.

How'd I beat @ChadsPride in here?

Great looking build out for the rear. Have always been a fan of the platform builds. This is slick. Definitely like the Cutouts and little storage areas, great work!

 

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What do you do for lights? Any ideas?

 

Sick build! I have a 16 sr5. Question- when you installed the pro grill did you need to get a garnish that blocks off the sensor or is that only for 18 models

 

niiiiiice

 

Where did you source your spare wheels? Great build-out in the bed

 

I'm a big fan of the Milwaukee tools M12 cordless lights. I have their Lantern, and it is awesome! Works so well! You can even charge through USB on it.
https://milwaukeetool.com/Products/Lighting/Handheld-Lights/2362

 

There is no sensor on mine, So it was pretty much plug and play. Definitely helps to have a second person help with removing the clips, but it's not too bad at all.

 

Thanks! I got most of the spares off Craigslist, and one from e-bay. Average price was $90, some came with tires too.

 

Very nice platform build! I like the softopper too. Waiting for more from you.

 

Here are some more photos of my camper without the softopper installed. It's difficult to get photos of everything with that thing on. I'm currently working on a gas strut for the doors on the back storage compartments. I ordered a few different styles from https://www.mcmaster.com/ they have such great descriptions and information for understanding proper applications. The one that I have installed on the middle widest door is a 15.25 extended length gas strut 40lbs. For the small door closest to the cab I'll go with a 20 or 30lb strut. Also I'm planning on doing some sort of better lock system to keep the doors closed. Right now I have magnets pressed in with epoxy, these land onto small pieces of angle iron in the corners of the compartments. This is done the same way for the 3 piece sliding center section. I will also be researching a better top liner. The foam tiles are comfortable but they tend to peal up easily, and the dovetail sections get caught on things.

 

Did a few more updates on the camper platform. I switched out the foam floor tiles for a larger diamond plate foam floor mat. I used three mats in total to cover the sleeping platform. I also used super 90 spray adhesive over the super 77. Hopefully this hold up a little better. I got the second strut installed. I ended up using a 40lb gas strut for the larger door, and a 30lb for the smaller door. I also installed a latch system, the latch feels pretty secure. Everything is from Mcmaster Carr. I will put links below.

Gas Struts
https://www.mcmaster.com/#4138t55/=1dmsi6x
Plastic Latch
https://www.mcmaster.com/#1659a5/=1dmsih0

 

Do the sliders work well as steps? Does the foot feel crooked or uncomfortable when using it to step in and out?