Paul’s Inferno Build/Ownership Log/Photo Dump Thread

While I had the dash apart for the USB relocation, I also added in the Anytime Backup Camera F&R kit. I ordered the switch kit and then got the RAAYOO camera from Amazon. Wiring was pretty straightforward and I added the navigation override as well (cut wire on pin 17 and run a switch in series).

The switch that comes with the ABC kit fits in the small Toyota switch openings but I did not have any open spots left. I had never found a use for the cubby on the driver’s side of the steering wheel so I decided to make a switch panel for that location that would fit three small switches. It’s a tight fit for three switches, but I was able to draw up and 3D print a panel that would fit them. I put the ABC switch in one spot, my push-button switch for the navigation override in the other, and have a blank in the third spot.

The camera is currently ziptied in the front grille. Not really happy with the current location so I’ll be messing with that and finding a better mounting location.

 

Over the summer I got the windows tinted. I was looking mainly for added heat rejection so I went with 3M Crystalline film. I had the CR40 (40%) installed on the front two windows and CR70 (70%) installed on the windshield and rear/back window. Most of the month of July was 90+ degrees outside so I was able to “test” the performance right away. The film works really well. While the truck will still get hot on really bad days/when sitting in direct sunlight for hours, it is noticeably less hot compared to before the tint. I also notice that the A/C seems to cool down the cab a lot quicker than before as well. Overall very impressed with the film.

*I haven't taken any good pictures showing the tint, so this is a placeholder until I get some.

 

I had some scrap wood from work and always liked the idea of a dog platform in the back to give them a little bit more room. Threw this “extension” together one weekend and it works pretty well for now. There is still some room underneath for small things if needed and it gives the dogs quite a bit more room. I cut the height a little short of where the seats are so that I can add some foam/padding and level it out. The other nice thing about this is that it will be easy to pull out if I need to use the back seats.

 

I added the Static Climbing chalk bags today. Found this thread on here where people had used them as cup holders for their Nalgenes and larger bottles. Previously I been using my passenger seat/floorboard for these bottles which is less than ideal.

Taylor at Static Climbing was awesome to work with. I had mine “modified” with nylon lining, mirrored (since I got two), smaller pen loops, and the straps changed so that it would just be a single one under the trim piece and there wouldn’t be a big gap. Because of how the straps were set up, I did not have to add a bolt/pencil/ziptie like others had been doing.

These fit really good and do not get in the way of my legs at all while driving. Looking forward to having a secure place for me to put those larger water bottles.

 

I installed sumo springs this weekend. With the cap and what I will typically load up with for camping I was getting a little bit of sag in the rear and had hit bump stops a few times my last time on the trails. I am hoping these will help until I figure out what I want to do with the suspension.

I’ve got one picture below showing the height difference between the factory bump stop and the sumo springs. Install was really easy – loosen the u-bolts (no need to remove) and pull the factory bump stops out. Next I slid the bracket for the sumo springs under the u-bolts and torqued the bolts back down. After that just lift the truck slightly from the frame and thread the sumo springs on. They provide some Loctite to put on the threads of the bracket so the springs don’t loosen over time.

With only the cap on, the frame just rests on the sumo springs. I got the

$282 SSR-612-40 | SumoSprings Rear for Toyota Tacoma, blue

SSR-612-40 which are the 4” tall ones that are listed for the 3rd gens. My around-town ride is a little stiffer but not harsh at all. If I didn’t know that they were installed I think it could pass as stock although it does provide better body control with less lean in corners than before. I like them so far, need to get it really loaded up and see how they do.

 

In November we were able to get out and camp again. I was able to try out the sleeping platform I had made in the bed – laying diagonally works and Ike was also a fan.

This was also my first time off road with the sumo springs in place and I am really happy with the addition. They handle the weight in the back much better and there is a lot less movement over bumps.

 

I’ve been working on a better mounting solution for the front camera and finally got something that I’m happy with.

Tried something a little different by modeling and 3D printing a 3-piece mount for the camera in the “O” of Toyota. The front cover is superglued in place and then the back piece screws in from behind the O to clamp the assembly in place.

The fourth image shows the view with this mount - I can just see the edges of the front bumper which I think is going to be perfect in knowing where exactly the front of the truck is.

 

I like this. I have been thinking about putting a front camera on mine. But was looking for some think like this.
So how does the set up work?

 

Nice build. Where are you in Northern VA?

 

Thanks - is that a question on the ABC kit or the camera mount? Both have been working great for me.

Thanks. Currently in Sterling, so looks like right down the road from you in Ashburn.