Builds Romer's 2024 Tacoma TRD Off Road

[Romer]

Not applicable to the Trailhunter per the Icon site. Certainly worth looking tho!!!

Glad it isn't an issue for you

The ICON plates are the easiest install I have ever done. 5 minutes per side and a 14mm socket. In the Icon video he says the flat spot goes to the rear. That is from the direction he is facing vs the rear of the vehicle. More accurate to say flat spot goes to the engine side. There is a plate there so it is pretty obvious.

 

[MountaineerLC]

The build is coming along nicely! I saw a bronze oxide Taco in person the other day and really loved the color. I’m a fan of the 4th gen, I just hope Toyota gets the bugs worked out and it lives up to the reputation of its older siblings.

 

[gray rider]

Sorry if I missed this, but is that a 5' or 6' long bed?

 

[Romer]

Sorry if I missed this, but is that a 5' or 6' long bed?

NP, sorry for the delay. Just got back from Iceland. It is a 5ft bed. That will fit easier in my garage and still have room for hauling most things

 

[Bajaknot]

I love this truck. My wife said it rides better than the 200 series.

I have spent quite a bit of time with the truck driving 12 hours from Idaho. Although I haven’t had time to sit in the truck with the manual and go over all the options.

I got the premium package and $3700 off MSRP from the dealer in Boise (Edmark). They have other trucks off MSRP and you can reach out to them about ones in transit as the discount doesn’t appear until it is in stock.

I drove a bit gingerly from Boise for most of the trip to break in the engine

Observations:

• I love the power. I have zero regrets in buying the non Hybrid version. None
• Near the end when I did the 80mph speed limit it was around 2000 rpm
• Engine, transmission are nice a smooth
• You feel and see on the dash when the turbo kicks in. Plenty of get up and go for quick acceleration
• The ride is nice and smooth. Although there were a couple of spots where it seemed to trammel on rutted roads. I checked the tires and they were at 56 psi. Door sticker says 30. I lowered them to 38 and it was fine after that.
• The premium comes with the multiple camera setup with a birds eye view. It has an algorithm that combines all the views into a 360 view from above. I wasn’t sure I was straight in a parking spot and turned it on and I moved over a bit. It also comes on when you get close to something
• I haven’t played with the Towing capabilities yet, Youtube shows a lot of capability there with the package I got
• Android auto is awesome and seamless. I can go hey google and get info at any time. The display of maps and Gaia can be full screen on the 14” display.
• I like the phone charging plate
• Seems like lots of cubbys and storage. One of the reasons I went non hybrid. I have my tools and offroad gear under the rear seat

Negatives

• Like the 250, there are subscriptions for wifi, navigation etc. However, with Android Auto, who cares I have all the connectivity I need. I swapped back and forth from the subscription Navigation to Android Autor and I couldn’t see any real difference. I haven’t played with all the apps. I get 1 year free on the subscriptions so there is plenty of time, but doubt I would continue them. I may do the less expensive service connect but need to research it more for the value.
• It doesn’t seem like I can download my music library into the system. However, I can connect a Type c USB memory stick and it will use that as a source for music. It could also play from my phone as well.
• Swapping between audio sources, the sound doesn’t seem to be at the same volume level. Maybe something different about my USB files. I understand the system remembers the volume for various sources and switches with the source.
• They don’t give you a real spare. A smaller real tire on a steel rim. I am going to swap it for a real tire once I swap exhaust output. Can’t see wheeling with a smaller spare.

I have been working on my build and will start a build thread after I get my sliders etc in a couple of months

So far:

• Installed rubber floor mats (PT206-35242-20). The carpet ones are nice, just prefer the rubber ones for winter
• Put a bed liner in PT318-35240-02
• Installed a Trifold Hard Tonneau Cover PT954-35240 and about to install it. Good deal with 4th of July sales
• Bought an off road Toyota exhaust output. PT226-35241-AA. Think its what is on the Trailhunter. The stock exhaust will get beat to crap plus it comes to close to the spare tire
• Added extra small storage that was wasted space Amazon.com - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D56JDYZ9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1

Upcoming:

• Changing the 31” tires for Toyo AT3’ss 255 80 r17. 33” pizza cutters. They fit with existing setup. They are 10” wide and will make it easier to eventually replace spare tire without it sticking down too much
• Change the oil after breakin period
• Add sliders. Ordered the CBI Sliders
• Add a front skid plate, Ordered RCI's skid plate that has access for oil changes.
• Radios- Will hard install HAM and maybe GMRS. Need to figure out where to put the antennas
• Look at adding a built in air compressor. I have small low power one in a bag until then

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Thanks for the write-up, Ken. Excellent build. I’ve done a fraction of your build- tonneau cover, WeatherTech floor mats and Expedition One Rock Sliders. Appreciate the info on the spare; didn’t realize it wasn’t full size. Suppose that’s on me for assuming.
Also, agree with the storage space. Did you find the one inside the door well on the left side of the dash? Good for emergency cash or spare house key.

 

[Romer]

When I picked up my truck in July I called Slee (Ben and Christo were out). I was told they didn't have their truck and nothing was in the pipeline yet. I talked to Christo in April and let him know I would be buying sliders in July. He wasn't sure if he would have anything. I researched the Various Taco products for the 2024 and there were quite a few. I settled on the CBI Step Sliders

I compared the clearance height to my 200
200

Taco - Stock Off Roaad Suspension

 

[Romer]

I also got the RCI Skid plate (Local Company). My two requirements were access to the filter and oil drain without having to remove the skid plate. Interesting that you have to remove a TRD skid plate on the Trailhunter for oil; changes. Although, after installing it it is obvious the oil will hit the top of the plate when the oil first starts coming out so I ordered a Fomuto valve. Thinking the next time I change it, I can wrap a foil cone around to direct the flow and then install the valve. It is a well built plate and I am happy with it. I got the Aluminum one and considering the rest of the set. The Taco is nice that after the engine the componets are more recessed higher into the frame reducing the possibility of damage.

 

[kcjaz]

Very nice truck Ken. I'm considering selling my 2017 Taco for a new 2024 as the local dealers seem to have a lot of inventory now. There are even TH versions here in KC. Part of me thinks about waiting for the 2025 models to maybe get past the reported transmission issues and general first MY things but not sure how big of a concern that really is. Interested in your view on that.

 

[Romer]

Very nice truck Ken. I'm considering selling my 2017 Taco for a new 2024 as the local dealers seem to have a lot of inventory now. There are even TH versions here in KC. Part of me thinks about waiting for the 2025 models to maybe get past the reported transmission issues and general first MY things but not sure how big of a concern that really is. Interested in your view on that.

My truck has been problem free.

There is a TSB on the transmission issues which isolated a set of builds in the spring. Mine was built after that so not affected. I can't say if you get one that it will be problem free, but I wouldn't hesitate.

I would recommend driving a non Hybrid one as well for a test. I decided I didnt want the Hybrod. The under rear seat storage was a big plus and one less system to worry about. You can build the truck how you want it then. Very happy with the Off Road Premium build. The xtras are worth it

I used this guy who after his $1000 fee, handed me off to a Dealer who was $4k below MSRP $500-1000 under invocieon 2024 Tacomas! Purchase & Leasing - https://www.tacoma4g.com/forum/threads/500-1000-under-invocieon-2024-tacomas-%F0%9F%92%B5-purchase-leasing.2039/ You might be able to find deals like that on your own searching if you are willing to drive.

I also plan on getting a 10 year 100K mile extended Toyota Warranty for $1360 that will mitigate risk of a new build. This warranty is a legitimate Toyota warranty

Here's a recent quote I got from Troy Dietrich at Toyota Greenfield www.fd-warranty.com

Vehicle: 2021 – 2024 Toyota Tacoma; (Within 36 months / 36,000 miles).

Toyota Extra Care, Platinum coverage with $0 deductible:
4 yr / 125K - $790.00
5 yr / 100K - $765.00
5 yr / 125K - $915.00
6 yr / 75K - $645.00
6 yr / 100K - $895.00
6 yr / 125K - $1140.00
7 yr / 75K - $715.00
7 yr / 100K - $1025.00
7 yr / 125K - $1250.00
8 yr / 75K - $835.00
8 yr / 100K - $1145.00
8 yr / 125K - $1505.00
9 yr / 100K - $1265.00
9 yr / 125K - $1665.00
10 yr / 100K - $1360.00
10 yr / 125K - $1795.00

 

[kcjaz]

My truck has been problem free.

There is a TSB on the transmission issues which isolated a set of builds in the spring. Mine was built after that so not affected. I can't say if you get one that it will be problem free, but I wouldn't hesitate.

I would recommend driving a non Hybrid one as well for a test. I decided I didnt want the Hybrod. The under rear seat storage was a big plus and one less system to worry about. You can build the truck how you want it then. Very happy with the Off Road Premium build. The xtras are worth it

I used this guy who after his $1000 fee, handed me off to a Dealer who was $4k below MSRP $500-1000 under invocieon 2024 Tacomas! Purchase & Leasing - https://www.tacoma4g.com/forum/threads/500-1000-under-invocieon-2024-tacomas-%F0%9F%92%B5-purchase-leasing.2039/ You might be able to find deals like that on your own searching if you are willing to drive.

I also plan on getting a 10 year 100K mile extended Toyota Warranty for $1360 that will mitigate risk of a new build. This warranty is a legitimate Toyota warranty

Here's a recent quote I got from Troy Dietrich at Toyota Greenfield www.fd-warranty.com

Vehicle: 2021 – 2024 Toyota Tacoma; (Within 36 months / 36,000 miles).

Toyota Extra Care, Platinum coverage with $0 deductible:
4 yr / 125K - $790.00
5 yr / 100K - $765.00
5 yr / 125K - $915.00
6 yr / 75K - $645.00
6 yr / 100K - $895.00
6 yr / 125K - $1140.00
7 yr / 75K - $715.00
7 yr / 100K - $1025.00
7 yr / 125K - $1250.00
8 yr / 75K - $835.00
8 yr / 100K - $1145.00
8 yr / 125K - $1505.00
9 yr / 100K - $1265.00
9 yr / 125K - $1665.00
10 yr / 100K - $1360.00
10 yr / 125K - $1795.00

Thanks. I'm open to the hybrid but would likely go conventional ICE. I think knowing the VIN of any specific truck, I can know if the tranny TSB applies or not so, I don't think I have a big concern there. I am also aware of a differential failure that was due to, or at least fixed by, a traction control software update. I would think that would also have a TSB but googling I can't find that one. I expect that the dealers can provide that info. I would also go with full 10yr warranty for this if I do it. Appreciate the info.

 

[Romer]

Completed what I had in mind for my build, not to say more won't be coming. The last two items were the easiest installs.

I bought the ARB Rear Tow hooks from Toyota during a 25% off sale (They happen a lot)

Thinking this will also provide some rear bumper protection. I did say some. Very easy install with 4 bolts

Then the hood prop seemed like a bad choice by Toyota. My 200 has props and this is a newer vehicle

Several struts out there, this one was a simple install and I believe at least on other wanted to drill a hole. I may be wrong

I bought this set Redline Tuning 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Hood QuickLIFT PLUS - https://www.redlinetuning.com/2024-Toyota-Tacoma-Hood-QuickLIFT-PLUS-p/21-27022-02.htm

 

[Romer]

The next mod I do want is an Air Compressor. I currently have an old MV50 one. I would like something better.

I thought about the dual ARB with Tank in a case, but that takes up space although more mobile. I don't really need the mobility since I have a dual ARB in the 200.

So thinking a single ARB or Dual ARB.
There is a member on the 4G forum who 3D printed a single ARB mount bracket that goes in the small empty space.

There is this company that has a Dual ARB mount in the engine bay, but you have to move the ECU and am concerned that would void the warranty besides concerns about changing the dynamics it wwas tested to.


Then there are several that mount it above the spare tire bracket. That would leave it exposed to the elements. Is that something I should worry about
SDHQ Built '24 Tacoma Air Compressor Mount - https://sdhqoffroad.com/products/sdhq-built-24-tacoma-air-compressor-mounting-kit?srsltid=AfmBOopdNqdEIfokp7iBL9JG6T37naqYidOrmvUgRvAzNajdMB61QLLi

or I wait and see what else comes about

 

[Romer]

I went over the options on the air compressor. I have always liked the twin ARB as it is fast. I looked at portable units and ended up going with the single ARB compressor as it would fit in the engine bay. I prefered mounted giving one less thing to carry. I didn't want to move the ECU to fit the twin as I have concerns about long term reliability with the ECU and warranty due to no long term testing. ECUs are pretty key components.

I installed the ARB in an open space on the drivers side of the engine bay. I used a mount developwed by someone on the 4G forums as a 3D printed design. I really appreciated his innovation. It was a one off design so I needed to drill out some of the compressor mounting holes to get them to line up. Just a slight modification likely due to tolerances among components. The mounting to the fender wall fit perfectly.

I used a fuse tap to tie into the IGN Fuse to make sure it only activates when the engine is on. Drilled a small hole in the fuse box to run the wire and then sealed it with plumbers goop

I used a single rocker holder I got from Amazon to hold the switch and and also put a peice of thick foam behind it.

It will take twice as long as the twin in my Land Cruiser to air up tires, but that isn't a big deal. The Land Cruiser is still my primary wheeling rig. I understand it has only 50% duty cycle vs the twins 100%, but that only impacts other vehicles I would have aired up after completing mine

 

[Romer]

What is next you might ask? I like the TRD Pro grill with the Toyota vs the somberero. That isn't enough to spend the money. Having a light bar provides increased functionality. To do that using Toyota and other components would be close to $900

However, via after market there is this option for around $250. I have been watching this guys channel about his new Tacoma and he goes over this option



This likely will be my last modification for a while. I have built this for mild wheeling. To do more would be adding front rear bumpers, a winch and a lift. I figured before I spend that kind of money on my daily driver, I would wait and see how it wheels and if it is good the way it is. The Land Cruiser has more clearance and is fully armored up and would be what I take to Moab and any challenging local trails

 

[1FZj80]

Raptor lights on a Taco , don't do it.

 

[Romer]

Raptor lights on a Taco , don't do it.

allready have it. I don't have to turn them on. I will see how I like it

 

[pappy]

I love this truck. My wife said it rides better than the 200 series.

I have spent quite a bit of time with the truck driving 12 hours from Idaho. Although I haven’t had time to sit in the truck with the manual and go over all the options.

I got the premium package and $3700 off MSRP from the dealer in Boise (Edmark). They have other trucks off MSRP and you can reach out to them about ones in transit as the discount doesn’t appear until it is in stock.

Well, thanks Ken. This is a nice introduction to the new Tacoma. I've been looking at getting a pickup to build as a camper, and your adventure with one certainly has me inspired.

 

[Romer]

Maybe its the cold weather or the skinny and stiff tires or there are a lot more pot holes on the roads here in the winter, but the 200 series does ride smoother with less bumps due to the road. I know skinny E rated tires will ride more stiff due to less give.

Not a big deal and we still drive the Taco more than the 200, but wanted to be transparent since I made the comment earlier that the Taco rides better. I do think thee seat is more comfortable.

 

[coldtaco]

Nice build. Do you know the part number for the ARB tow hooks?
Didn’t know about the hood lift struts, might have to add that to the list

 

[Romer]

Nice build. Do you know the part number for the ARB tow hooks?
Didn’t know about the hood lift struts, might have to add that to the list

https://www.sparksparts.com/oem-parts/toyota-taco-tow-hook-right-hand-left-hand-pt9893524503?srsltid=AfmBOoqz1myIG9YSDBiSzT70khxyH8tgo4B4cll1-yIigDUsHfLxXMjI