Here she is. I drove up to Belgrade in 2022 to get my GFC put on. 88k miles. She’s now at 176k. Since then…?
My Tacoma is my daily. The main reason I chose GFC is the truck remains very capable as a daily truck. I got the beef racks from the factory too, as I regularly transport lumber, ladders, etc. and need to use the space for everyday use.
As a result, I have spent many, many days and nights using a very “spartan” set up for my trips. Tool cold? Wear more clothes. Charge your phone? No, just turn it off. Cooking? My MSR stove works great, maybe a Coleman if I need to make a spread, cold food is good too! Can’t see? Use a headlamp…etc. Most of my starts are pre-dawn, and I’m typically not back to the truck until afternoon anyway.
I have often poured over these forums appreciating other builds, and quietly collecting thoughts and ideas in my head. But I have never made any moves on it. I keep procrastinating, or finding other projects. I also do appreciate the simplicity of grabbing my ski/surf/bike/climb gear, throwing it in, closing the tailgate, and leaving. But as I get older, I remember fondly my time as an early adult budget-wrenching on my 91 XJ. I also find that I am going further down fire roads, and spending more time away from comforts, and bringing them along would be nice! Also some extra lights so I can see down these fire roads and night- particularly in reverse.
So why am I now posting? Two reasons: 1: to share my “build” with others and get good feedback, criticisms, and other ideas to help improve my build. And 2: If I create this thread, perhaps I’ll quit putting off doing the “build”. I put “build” in quotes because I do want all my upgrades to be quickly removeable, and easily stored. I still need the truck to work everyday. I don’t know if I can get by with even a wooden platform or cabinet in the back.
What has been done so far?
- A secondhand bluetti battery powers an electric blanket, which has certainly provided a much added comfort boost. It can “preheat” the sleeping bag (which is usually enough) or run all night for multiple nights- if need be.
- The Yakima road shower (not yet displayed) has become necessary for remote surf spots. A freshwater rinse is necessary and not always available. I only take the time to mount this for specific trips.
What needs to be done?
- I am developing a driveline vibration about 60-65mph. (priority, probably a U-joint)
- My leaf packs are frowning. They are desperate. I thought about airbags, but onboard compressors are expensive, though not necessary. I am leaning toward just bolting in new packs. Maybe throw all new suspension on. No desire or need for any large lifts.
- I desire “scene lighting” around the rig, particularly when trying to find a level camp spot at night. I think I’ll stick with my headlamps, as I do desire to maintain pretty tight discipline over unnecessary lighting. I just like dark camp spots. This is not a priority, but is cheap and easy.
Stay tuned, hopefully I’ll keep the updates coming. And all opinions and advice (and criticism) is welcome! Thats the point of “open forum” !
