FrenchTaco's Build Thread

Wasn't sure if I wanted to start a build thread but I wanted somewhere to document any type of work I do to the Taco.
I'm unsure if I want to post my 4x4 conversion in here.

For now...
I've been working on a front bumper for the Taco. I used a lot of dimensions that were given to me from a TTORA member.
I inspired myself from a 2nd gen bumper I really like.
I'm sure someone will figure what bumper I'm talking about.

I'm terrible at updating threads but I got a good picture of the truck the other day with the bumper.
Updated 12/3/19


Took me a long time on solidworks to get to this design.


Finished the bumper long ago.
I'm modifying a couple things so the winch fit. Will add more pics.
Wish I documen ted everything on TW but I'm lazy.

 

Glad to see this truck still evolving

 

Looks good.

 

Okay guys. I prob wont ever really make progress on this. I'm swamped with school work and a school club im in. Its called formula SAE. We design and build a fully electric formula car.
I've got a crap ton of welding to do for it so I'm gonna be MIA. It's a bummer but the Tacoma just isn't a priority these days.
Here is SRE-2. This is last years car couple days after I completed the frame and suspension components.


Now I have to weld a whole new frame and been swamped with cooling design and all that crap.

The Tacoma will receive maintenance but not much modding.


Here is just a little something on manual hubs that might help someone out searching the forum some day.

If you are experiencing a squeak, squeaky or screech noise it could very well be your manual hubs. I was experiencing this specific noise here in the video.
I did process of elimination. Took caliper off. Was still making noise. There are 2 things that spin. The wheel bearing or the manual hub. I figure it couldn't be the bearing so I took the hub apart.


I didn't grease this part when I converted the truck. I didn't want to take the snap ring off.
Although not a ball bearing, these two surfaces are considered a bearing. When the hubs are unlocked, the shaft spins and this is where it spins at in the hub.


Close up of the copper or brass ring that needed to be lubed.


A lot of people say "Don't use so much grease". I really don't care. I applied a good amount and hopefully wont have to get back into it for a while.
Cleaned out and lubed up.

 

Been slacking on updates.
Will right detailed update on truck soon.
Here are bumper pics. Been done since august.

 

Any chance you would be willing to share your design? Looks like you've put a lot of work into it so I'd be willing to do a trade or somehow make it a fair deal.

 

I dont mind.
PM your email.

 

Not to start a thing here but, I really like your tweaks to the bumper design. Would you mind sharing the design? I’d like to see if a friend of mine could whip up something similar.
Stock mounts?