Ronnie Darkoh's Ute Build Thread

The Journey

I decided to start documenting the ever changing state of my current build. I've learned so much over the years from other's posts/threads and wanted to 'give back' in whatever way I could. We all have different goals for our trucks but I figured, the more information out there, the better. This build is going to be centered around what I need from my vehicle. Function over form is the priority but heck, if I can make it pretty in the process... right on. If you want to follow along on the adventure, I think that would be pretty slick. Happy to answer any and all questions or just shoot the breeze with some like-minded folks. Cheers, friends!

Day 1
Apart from a 2nd and 3rd Gen 4Runner making some guest appearances, I have almost exclusively owned Tacomas. Started with a '99 that just about made it to the Half-a-Million mile mark, two 2nd Gens, and finally... this 2023 TRD Off-Road. Picked it up off the lot with 1,200 miles on the ODO and was pretty sold on the Lunar Rock color.



Early Tweaks
I wanted to get a feel for the truck and hit the trails before I started with any heavy modifications but I knew there a few things I wanted to add to make it more functional for my wants and needs.




I immediately threw a @Softopper_CO on and installed some @Baja Designs Squadron Pro's. I wasn't sure what direction I would go with a final topper set up but I live in the PNW and needed to keep my gear dry in the mean time. The Softopper seemed like the right choice. It didn't stick around for very long but I was really impressed with it for the time it spent on the bed. The Squadron Pro's have been incredible. I find myself driving in some pretty remote places that require ditch lights (if I'm going to see that Moose coming before it's too late). Aside from reducing the mosquito population, they have also been exceptional at cutting through fog and illuminating those tree lines.




A few other minor updates to the interior felt necessary. I drilled some holes in the dash and installed a Ram Mount rail to hold the phone and to be a platform for other potential accessories down the line. I took my time with this and used proper hardware. It's sturdy and I haven't noticed any vibration. I also went with some canvas seat covers from Escape Gear. I can't even tell you how happy I am with them. Love the little bit of added storage and to be honest, I think they just might outlast the truck.



Also decided to throw on the MagnaFlow Overland Exhaust. Was it needed? Absolutely not. But it does do it's best to make that V6 sound a little bit more like it has some hair on its chest. I suppose the tiny bit of added clearance is cool too...

The Big Move
I bounced around so many times with what direction I wanted to go for the build. Pop-up toppers, campers, you name it. I had the idea of a flatbed conversion stuck in the back of my head and I was putting some feelers out, I came across Summit Expedition Trucks out of Alberta, Canada. I got to talking with Ralf and damn it if he didn't sell me on their product. I placed a deposit and planned a road trip out to the Edmonton area. I was stuck in Virginia at the time on a work contract and I don't think time has ever moved that slow. The second I was able to, I made the journey out there. I met the SET crew which further solidified my decision; what an incredible group of people. They stripped my baby down and fitted her with their Expedition Series flatbed. Couldn't be happier.



Future Considerations
Currently, there are a few things in the garage just waiting for the proper time to be installed.
- King 2.5's
- Deaver Expedition Leaf Springs
- @SCSPerformance F5's
- BFGoodrich KO3's (285's)
- Goose Gear Rear Seat Delete

As far as next steps, I believe I would like to continue with the SET build and design a canopy with them to go along with the flatbed. I'd love to really dial in the interior, focus on some recovery equipment, and secure some trail armor. So far though, I have been loving what this truck is turning into.



Hey.... thanks for stopping by, you filthy animal.



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As She Sits Today
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Looks great, love the flat bed builds, excited to see what's next on the tray.

Quick question about seat cover, where did you order them from? I like the look of it, did some quick google, looks like they are in south africa? Also what color is the seat cover in the picture?

 

Nice…

Next up: steel bumper
Protect your investment

 

I appreciate that! Equipt is the US distributor for Escape Gear. I went with the Grey Cotton Canvas. Equipt had a booth at the Overland Expo in Oregon a while back and they sold me on the covers. They were dragging them around with a chain off the back of a truck. They might just be bulletproof but don't quote me on that.

 

You're not wrong. I'm thinking that might be the next move. Steel is nice but those @Backwoods Adventure Mods Hi-Lite's have my attention at the moment.

 

Thank you for the info! I will reach out to them!