2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro receives total transformation

Ken came to us with his fresh 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro to be completely transformed for some serious off road exploration. The 6-speed manual transmission isn’t a common sight so we couldn’t wait to hop in and get it into the shop.

For front end protection Ken choose to go with ARB. The new ARB Summit bumper for the 3rd Gen Tacoma is about as rugged and protective as there is, which makes it a great choice. ARB quality is consistent and backed by one of the largest names in the off road game and the engineering behind these bumpers is top tier and proven in the backcountry of Australia.



Inside the bumper is a Warn Zeon 10 Platinum Winch with synthetic line. It fits perfectly and will provide ample and reliable recovery should he need it. For a little extra clarity in the middles of nowhere we added some Baja Designs XL Pro (Driving Combo) LED lights to help light the way. These pack A LOT of punch and has excellent close range and long-distance lighting on every terrain.

For rear bumper we installed a CBI T3 model with dual swingouts, including a tire carrier with fold down camp table and double jerry can holder. This is an excellent choice for those looking for a single latch dual swing out, which is a much stronger option than the other single swingout models on the market now.



For dual battery setup Ken decided to go all in. We set him up with Odyssey Extreme main battery and a Full River deep cycle AGM auxiliary battery. But here’s where it gets interesting: for possibly the first time in the overland world we installed a Perfect Switch Power Gate Dual Rectifier 200 Amp, splitting power directly from the alternator to the two batteries for optimal and more efficient, faster charging. This unit is controlled by a MOSFET board and is epoxy encapsulated for complete waterproofing. Added on as an option we’ve also installed a momentary linking switch in the cab to force link the batteries as well as an overhead dual-voltage display to Ken can monitor his battery levels at all times. This is absolutely the most advance dual battery system on the market and we’re looking forward to installing this same system in one of our demo vehicles here at the shop!





To control all of his auxiliary circuits we installed an sPod SE System with HD head unit in the cab on the left lower dash for easy access. We are a fan of the sPod system as they provide for an extremely simple and clean wiring with great expand-ability in the future.



For suspension we installed an Icon Vehicle Dynamics Stage 6 with Billet UCA fitted with new delta joint for added reliability and reduced noise and maintenance. This was a front to back suspension kit including the remote reservoirs with adjustable damping control and progressive leaf pack in the rear. The front went together well but the Icon resevoir mounts did not work with ARB bumper as a bolt conflicted with mounting location, so we fabricated some revised mounts here at the shop to accomodate.







Connecting him to the ground are a full set of new BF Goodrich All-terrain KO2 275/70 R16 tires.



We are looking forward to seeing Ken’s smile after he gives his new truck a good smashing in the dirt

There are several other great projects in the shop right now, so stay tuned for more unique overland ready builds!

Adventure Ready

 

love that battery setup... wow.

 

Looks good!

 

Great work! Damn... I need more $$$$...

 

I DIG IT!!! I want those tires!

 

Nice set up . I am curious though, I do not see any crawl control , dials in the headliner . Doesn't the Pro have CC ?

 

no. ATRAC on the MT's.

 

Oh , that makes sense . beautiful truck .

 

The volt meter would have looked great in the plastic panel to the right of overhead console near the switches

 

Nice looking build

 

Wow!

 

For real. That blank panel right there and they drill into the headliner.
But that dual bat setup is legit!

 

I was thinking you could have made a plate - to go with your led map lights.

 

Already made one for there

 

Wow, nicely built!

 

Love the dual battery Setup. My only thing is that ARB bumper. Won't the bumper hit a hill before the wheels? Seems like it makes the nose of the truck super long, like tip of bumper to tire. I could see it being a issue coming down a steep hill or approaching, like approach angle.

 

Looks great! Nicely done, @Adventure Ready

-Bailey, Baja Designs
www.bajadesigns.com