New Here

[JonSbaja]

I just signed on. I've got basically a stock 2002 Tundra TRO with a cap. I want to make some changes for an extended kayak fishing trip I'm planning to Baja in 2008 and fishing more out of the way remote areas. I plan on a lot of travel along the central Pacific coast trails. I've added a front hitch and I've reinforced the Thule rack, on top of the shell, for carrying multiple kayaks.

I know that I'm going to need wider rubber and probably need to beef up the suspension to handle some more weight. I'm looking at 4wd utility trailers so I can haul extra fuel and water. I'm looking for suggestions as to rubber, possible lift, suspension, etc. I don't want to turn it into a monster, but it needs to be able to handle the roads I'll encounter. Thanks

 

[Spud]

Hey man...Welcome.

I have no input on experience @ Baja...But sounds like fun.

 

[FlatlandTRD]

Welcome!

I know that I'm going to need wider rubber and probably need to beef up the suspension to handle some more weight. I'm looking at 4wd utility trailers so I can haul extra fuel and water. I'm looking for suggestions as to rubber, possible lift, suspension, etc. I don't want to turn it into a monster, but it needs to be able to handle the roads I'll encounter. Thanks

You'll love this place (if you haven't been there already). It sounds as though your Tundra will be more of an expedition rig, so you'll want to build accordingly. There is also a new magazine you should check out, go here

I don't know a great deal about the Tundra, just that I use Tundra parts for upgrades on the Tacoma (keep it in the family). Good luck, keep us up to date on what you're doing (i.e. pics never hurt).

(The official 'mud' salute if you haven't already been anointed)

 

[JonSbaja]

Thanks guys. I just signed up as a charter member to Overland too. There's a definite need for a mag like this.

I don't expect to do hardcore 4 wheeling with the tundra, I just want to set it up so it'll easily handle the task and still be a comfortable pavement rider too.

 

[nullifier]

I run OME on my taco and i works great in baja. Call Jacque at TRDparts4u.com You could also go with a Donahoe shock up front and deaver spring out back. This set up is more $ but baja addicts will tell you that it is the best performing set up over long distances. Both kits will give you 2.5" of lift or so. You can run a 33x10.50x15 or a 255/85/16 on your factory wheels no problem. A tall skinny tire is fine for baja. If you wanted to run a bit wider without major headaches like body lifts etc you might get by with a 285/75/16 but i think you will have to go to an 8" rim and different backspace fit clear the inner fender near the cab. all 3 sizes are 33" roughly and range 10-11.5" wide. I would suggest a d range tire for your truck since it is heavy and you will be loaded.

I do alot of kayak fishing and will be driving mine out to baja with me this November. I use a liquid logic manta ray mostly but will most likely be taking 2 ocean kayak scrambler xt models since they stack and use less space up top.

 

[nullifier]

Oh there is aplace outsde of La Paz called rancho leonero. THey run kayak fishing charters in that area. Try to get ahold of Spike from paddlefishing.com for some insight in the area. Also Alfonsia is a great place to go tighten some lines. There is a little airstrip their witha small hotel / restaurant for tacos. Beautiful area and fairly potected spot. lots of structure but open for trolling too.

 

[tombkeeper]

I just got back from Baja sur, we ended up in Bahia Conception. Beautiful beaches and great kayaking. Mex1 is in much better condition than it was 10 years ago. I went down there w/ a basically stock 06 Tacoma Sport 4x4. I wasn't able to get stuck even driving on the sandy roads that lead out to the many beaches. I took 3 Scepter fuel cans and 3 Scepter water cans that fit perfectly right behind the cab. Gas is not abundant once you get to baja sur (Guerrero Negro). Keep your fuel & water cans full. I recommend bringing your own portable toilet if you can spare the space (or bringing a lady), I question the cleanliness of the public toilets down there. I also took a Zodi extreme shower that was worth its weight in gold, especially this time of the year. I think some people tend to "overbuild" unnecessarily for Baja. Tires are going to be the most important mod you can make. An experienced driver w/ a good 4x4 truck w/ good tires aired down is going to really have to venture to some very inaccessible places to get stuck in baja. I would exercise caution traveling insanely soft roads without more than one truck in baja. The locals tend to have less-effective "recovery" vehicles than Americans, too.