'05 Tacoma--Dual Purpose: Daily Driver/Expedition Rig

Alright folks,

I know I could probably find some really good advice if I went fishing through the forums, but I thought maybe it would be easier to just post a thread.

First off I'm looking to build a dual purpose expedition type rig, one I can use as a daily driver as necessary, but also be able to pull off the highway and get to remote camping (hunting, fishing, wheeling, etc) locations. I don't need a baja racer, or dedicated rock trail truck, but something that will get me through the trails and back home.

I am having trouble deciding on a suspension. It seems like most "kits" do not have everything I need, and frankly I lack the know-how of deciding what exactly works best for my application and budget. I am pretty sure I need something in the front that comes with new knuckles and new coil springs, while in the rear I would much prefer a new leaf-pack or an add-a-leaf system. I currently have 100,000 miles on the Taco, and I am not sure if that should factor into my decision. Most "kits" also state that my factory wheels will not work b/c of the backspace, but I think I understand most of that (even though I'd rather not have to buy new wheels). I have heard some good things about Bilstein 5100 shocks, but do they come in different lengths, and if so how do I decide which ones to buy?

Tires and Wheels should be more or less self explanatory, but if you have any strong opinions on what rubber to run and a dual purpose rig I'd appreciate that info as well. Is there any other considerations I should take concerning the suspension? If I am running an add-a-leaf, should I have to worry about trailer weight? Would there be a need for airbag levelers or not? Should I be considering manual hubs?

As for the engine, I am definitely interested in forced induction (probably a couple of years down the road, more interested in suspension upgrades at the moment) just to get a little more out of the 4.0. TRD and URD both offer super chargers at $4500, and $5600 respectively (parts only, no labor), and STS offers a remote located turbo (I think the guys on Trucks put one a 1sr Gen Tacoma). I contacted them about price, and I got back $7500 just for parts--that seems incredibly high compared to the superchargers that I have seen available, and I also have concerns for the longevity of a turbo that is located under the chassis. Do you guys think that it would be safe from water, rocks, mud, etc in that location, or is a supercharger just a safer way to go?

Thanks for your time, and like I said, any info would be greatly appreciated!

 

Stay away from STS!!!!

 

Ok ill start, with the suspention if you dont need anything to extravagent but want a good ride, May I suggest Old Man Emu with OME Dakkar Leaf pack it is what I run and am very happy with it, The reasons you are being told your stock wheels will not work anymore is really due to the lift that is going to appear when new suspention components are put in. the main thing that gets in the way is the Upper Control Arm (Should replace with new suspention , with aftermarket of course!). It causes your tire to become Very close to/ is rubbing on UCA. So I would suggest new wheels and/or spacers (if spacers do lots of reaserch on a brand you are comfy with... HUB CENTRIC IS A MUST HERE!) Super chargers/ turbos are a new monster for me, the under truck turbo i wouldnt suggest due to the fact of water and trail debris that could damage it, if anything make it under the hood. Thats all I got for now

 

If the Tacoma is lifted 2.5" to 3" it will need UCA's anyway, because the front suspension will run out of adjustment. I run Light Racing UCA's with 3" lift, stock wheels, 265/7516 AT tires and I have NO rubbing issues....

 

I said needed new UCA, but I forgot I put on 285/75R16....My Bad!

 

Bone stock is pretty good.