My first "mods" after buying a 3rd gen

Hi all, I bought a 2017 OR DCLB a couple months ago with a leer cap, and I used the TacomaWorld threads to do several minor "mods". I think they all have been worth it, so I thought I'd do a quick post in case anyone was thinking of doing the same!

1. OTT tune
I drive fairly steep Utah roads/highways daily, and the terrible throttle control and gear hunting was driving me crazy. I got the OTT tune and it completely changed how the truck drives, especially at highway speeds. I don't drive fast so can't really tell if the power increase made much of a difference, but for the trans and throttle tuning alone it's been worth it. https://overlandtailor.com/

2. Butyl tape to seal gaps between cap and bed from water intrusion
The cap generally keeps out water, but if I'm driving through a creek or getting my truck washed(crazy I know), the front of the bed, both in the top corners and on the floor, let in enough water to get things wet on the floor. I used butyl tape, which comes in a roll but is moldable like playdough, to seal those gaps and holes and it's worked great so far https://www.campingworld.com/butyl-tape-34quot;-x-30'-39160.html?srsltid=AfmBOooAyJk6ncl0nygK73a9-WEuqx5mPS8WP9ImTsEfJQPVSTW78nmS

3. Pool noodle/pipe insulation mod to reduce noise from rear vents/window
Bought the 3/4" pipe insulation from home depot for maybe $2 and placed in in the gap between the bed and the cab. The fit is snug so I'm not concerned about it moving around, but just be careful that it isn't anywhere near the exhaust pipe. It's very easy to install and remove, and I've checked it after a big rain and the noodle is definitely moist but there isn't any standing water so I'm not super concerned about corrosion yet. Paired with the foam over the vents, the truck is now much, much quieter when driving. https://www.campingworld.com/butyl-tape-34quot;-x-30'-39160.html?srsltid=AfmBOooAyJk6ncl0nygK73a9-WEuqx5mPS8WP9ImTsEfJQPVSTW78nmS

4. open-cell foam over rear vents to reduce noise from vents
Took off the panel behind the rear seat and installed open-cell acoustic foam over the vents, which significantly reduced cabin noise. there seems to be plenty of space for air movement still, and I did not notice any impact to cabin air pressure or AC fan operation, so I assume the actual airflow restrictions are negligible.

$31 VEVOR Acoustic Foam Panels, 24 Pack 12 x 12 x 2"es, Pyramid Soundproof Wall Panels,Fire-Resistant Acoustic Panels,Sound Dampening Absorbing Panels for Studio Wall and Ceiling,Black

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DL9RXD11

5. Sealing tape for tailgate to prevent dust intrusion and insulate bed
Bought an Amazon kit with adhesive tape on a rubber seal that allows you to seal the (rather large) gaps between the tailgate and bed. Seems to have taken care of most of the dust intrusion into the bed.

$33 ESI Ultimate Tailgate Seal with Taper Seal Compatible with Toyota Tacoma

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DTR77BJ2

 

I never did an OTT tune but I was a big fan of the pedal commander in my 6MT, the throttle response just felt odd in the manual. Felt like a different vehicle than the auto trans did.

 

Welcome aboard. Great first post - with links!

 

If you live around or travel to high car theft areas, tailgate lock should be added to the list.

 

and its not affiliate links or any nonsense. actually knows how to paste a shortened link! i'm impressed