Custom camper build on a 2012 Tacoma TRD

Hi all,
New to this thread and in the process of a complete rework of my truck so looking for feedback and help, advice or recommendations you all may have.

I am building an around the globe vehicle to be the base for a not for profit I started called SiP Global. It’s mission is to get individuals with spinal cord injuries paddling rivers all over the world, and to present up to date neuro rehab education to help these individuals survive and thrive. I have worked for years in wheelchair development circles and wanted new adventures, long road trips and many many border crossings!

TacoSusio is the name of the truck. I built her up originally to go down to Nicaragua for a 3 year contract. Did that drive Vancouver to Panama twice and loved it.


The problem with the old set up was it was just a bed in the back. I will need indoor working and cooking space. So TacoSusio is getting reborn.

Modifications planned:
- flatbed with storage boxes around the wheels - COMPLETED
- huge safari basket rack over the cab and cantilevered over the hood - In Process
- Custom aluminum pop top camper to mount on the flatbed - Planned.

Here is a rendering my builder did for me. So stoked!



Some initial ideas on interior layout. Again the goals are interior working, lounging and cooking space.



Phase 1 is complete with the addition of the flatbed. I couldn’t be happier about it! What do you think? It is 6.5 ft wide and 7ft long. That will result in an inside camper space of 6.5 x 8 ft. I can work with that!






Phase 2 of the build is the rack over the cab. It is in process...will include a sneak peak photo here. I am really stoked with how its turning out! Installation on deck for this weekend! Goal of the rack is to carry 8-9 kayaks, paddling gear (in a lockable storage box to be added at the back of the rack).



Phase 3 will be the fabrication of the custom, pop top camper and a long range fuel tank to ride between the frame rails under the flatbed,

Lots going on, this pause of COVID has actually helped with this project (gotta find a half full glass somewhere right?). Hope to have to camper finished by late summer to do a proper shake down before the around the world lap(s) begins.

Again, I look forward to any suggestions and ideas you fine folks may have to share!
Cheers...stay healthy!
Dave

 

That flat deck is beautie, did you make it?

 

WarrenG, I did not build it. I had a friend build it. I wish I had those skills!! It’s built here on Vancouver Island, BC.

 

Your friend is a craftsman in the truest sense. Very nice work.

 

Welcome aboard new member

 

Love the setup.

 

Looking great. Any reason you didnt wanna go with a flatbed Four Wheel Camper over a full custom build? Not that I really care for them much myself. Just curious.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

@YF_Ryan the 4 wheel campers don’t allow weight on their roofs and as a paraplegic, I have to crawl around lots. Also, I needed the rack space over the cab and hood to carry kayaks for the not for profit I started.