New member.

Howdy. I go by Clouse and have a 2018 TRD Offroad. I'm the second owner (40,000 miles) and do my best to maintain what I can when needed. I come here first for answers.
I don't trail ride or rock crawl; the Offroading happens around my property and during the winter. I'm so a private drive (no state help) so conditions are often not road worthy. No trouble with the 4x4. I don't go into 4 Lo often, so I'm glad it's a Tacoma when I need it. I use BFGoodrich KO2s (265 70 16). Most driving is paved, but I'll take the traction when I leave the road.
I'm a professional diver by trade. It's a great career, but not the most conducive for being with family as all work is contracted. I've been a Stay at Home Dad since Covid. Three kids, two under 3 and one in school. At this point I'd need $35 an hour just to send the two to daycare for me to work. So it's childcare for me for a bit. I really don't mind though, it's nice being there for them.
As a diver I got to be familiar with a lot of different facets of construction. "Jack of all trades, master of none". Change it to master of one. Point being I can tackle a lot, and, more importantly, know exactly when I need to get help.
I follow the manual maintenance schedule ("or it will be scheduled for you") closely and have had no trouble. There is a lot of equipment involved in dive ops, and breakdowns cost time and lots of money. I've learned that machines are simple to keep happy and throw a fit when neglected. The only time I need to pay a mechanic is for tires. Otherwise I've got the right tools and knowhow (mostly ability to watch tutorials). I did pay for a transmission flush once, but they had the machine that does it quick. Time is money.
My confidence is growing and I'm ready for alterations. I do always come here first for advice; my problem is seldom unique. Initially I want a brush guard and a winch fit emergency recoveries. An inch or so lift would be nice too. To fit bigger tires.
While I'm here, on the subject of lifts: why? The differentials are still the low points right? Aesthetic choice then? Independent axles raises your floor better. I said I want to fit more tire, is that the only legitimate reason to lift the body. Well, full snorkel get-up I can understand trying to stay dry. Don't let me insult you if you're lifted; I'm jealous of every Tacoma I see that's higher than mine. It does look good. Just curious about off road reasons for lifts without switching out axles.
Thanks and I hope I can begin contributing anything useful.

 

Welcome to TW Clouse!

Share some diving photos!!

 

Welcome! Most people won't read all that other stuff in the new member section, I didn't. Separate it out with individual posts. Less words, more pics.

 

Welcome aboard




that was a big intro…

 

Welcome aboard!

 

Less words, got it. My infant has me tied to a single spot sometimes. So I'm busy but also need to kill time. Excuses, excuses... How's about some snow? Couple days ago.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome!