So I've got a build thread on TacomaWorld and Expedition Portal...might as well throw it up here, too!
I'll be taking inspiration from many of the rigs I've seen around the interwebs, and specifically t0mills on Tacoma World for my rack design and build. When I bought the truck it had a Leer above-cab topper, which was great if you're into that sort of thing, but one of my primary complaints with the XJ was that if I did have space for everything, getting access to something at the front of the pile, under everything, was a PITA. A topper makes this truck a larger capacity SUV...do not want (personally).
At present the truck is sitting on stock suspension, but I've got Swayaway Racerunner shocks w/ Eibach 650# springs, All-Pro Expo springs, and a pile of other goodies on the way currently, and will be installing them within the next week or two.
Plans for the truck include (in no particular order):
- Lift (ordered)
- Front winch bumper build
- Rear bumper build w/ tire carrier
- Bed rack build w/ custom canvas top
- OBA with two 2.5-gallon air tanks hooked together
- Lighting... lots of it. 2-per-side LED alley lights on the rack, reverse lights, and aux. driving lights.
The bed rack is what I'm really looking forward to, it will be divided into top and bottom half (above bed rail and below) and will provide me the ability to use multiple (4-6) waterproof containers on the upper half, sourced from Plano, which will each have a lockable slot to slide into, with access to each from the passenger/driver side respectively. These cases will be used for passenger gear, clothes, bike gear, etc. rather than using bags that aren't easily secured. Below will be space for 1-2 large coolers, and 1 very large container in which camping gear will be stored (sleeping bags, tents, etc.). At the front of the bed, immediately behind the cab, I will integrate storage for Jerry cans, there will be space above for a total of 4 water cans, 2 per side and lockable; below these will be space for 2 gas cans. Resulting in 20 gallons of drinking/utility water, and 10 gallons of gas. Most of my travels will be based around mountain biking, and hiking for photographic purposes - so the ability to store and carry a large amount of water easily is key.
Overall I look forward to commencing with the build, and moreover I look forward to being able to get out and explore. As with most of us, I'm on a tight budget so things may move rather slowly, but fortunately most of what I plan on doing is a matter of materials, time, and some spray paint - so hopefully the rack and bumpers will come together without too much delay.