Thanks. I wonder if a hoop is an option? I would prefer a more simple design like the original
lder style bumpers
lder style bumpers
Builds Romer's 2024 Tacoma TRD Off Road
- Thread starter Romer
- Start date
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$5k for a bumper and install is just crazy, IMO. I don’t blame you for canceling it. I definitely agree with the logic of the full bumper and bar. I went that route with my 100. My next rig will likely be a Tacoma (late 3rd or 4th gen) and I’m going to keep it simple. I like the low profile bumpers that accommodate a winch and require minimal trimming. They also help maintain the factory aerodynamics and fuel mileage.
Reality is that I just don’t wheel often enough or hard enough to justify the a full bull bar front bumper. I can very easily talk myself into “needing” a lot of accessories and the next thing I know I’ve got a bloated, heavy and thirsty rig that spends 90% of its time on the highway and a half dozen or so wheeling trips a year.
I went with the full ARB bar on my 100 because they don’t make them any more and a good one requires quite a bit of effort to track down, baseline, etc. Tacos on the other hand are a dime a dozen and another can be had relatively easily should the truck be totaled by a deer strike or accident. At some point I think to have to pay your money and take you chances based on your usage of the vehicle.
Reality is that I just don’t wheel often enough or hard enough to justify the a full bull bar front bumper. I can very easily talk myself into “needing” a lot of accessories and the next thing I know I’ve got a bloated, heavy and thirsty rig that spends 90% of its time on the highway and a half dozen or so wheeling trips a year.
I went with the full ARB bar on my 100 because they don’t make them any more and a good one requires quite a bit of effort to track down, baseline, etc. Tacos on the other hand are a dime a dozen and another can be had relatively easily should the truck be totaled by a deer strike or accident. At some point I think to have to pay your money and take you chances based on your usage of the vehicle.
- Thread starter
- #63
I took a step back on bumpers and spent the last week looking at options. This doesnt preclude me from swapping for something Slee comes up with later on. I waited a long time for the rear 200 series bumper that already had a prototype. That is actually a good thing as Slee wants to fully test his products and I have no complaints about that.
I wanted a bumper that did not movee the sensors to simplify the install. These resulted in bumpers that are not full width, Low profile I believe they are called. I didn't really like the other full width options. Being a daily driver with some moderate wheeling, I am OK with less protection. The 200 series will be my primary wheeling rig. I can always change the bumper out if that changes at a later date. The trimming on these bumpers would not impact the areas that would need to be trimmed for a full width bumper
I have the TRD Pro style grill with a light bar, so don't need another front light bar.
Here are the bumpers I considered
I selected the RCI Pike Bumper With a Warn EVO VR 10-S winch. The bumper has 4-6 week lead time. I talked with RCI at the Colorado Toyota Expo and really liked the look of this bumper on their truck. Good group to talk to. At the time was discussing their skid plates (Bought), but grew to bumpers a week ago.
I will post up once I install it
I wanted a bumper that did not movee the sensors to simplify the install. These resulted in bumpers that are not full width, Low profile I believe they are called. I didn't really like the other full width options. Being a daily driver with some moderate wheeling, I am OK with less protection. The 200 series will be my primary wheeling rig. I can always change the bumper out if that changes at a later date. The trimming on these bumpers would not impact the areas that would need to be trimmed for a full width bumper
I have the TRD Pro style grill with a light bar, so don't need another front light bar.
Here are the bumpers I considered
I selected the RCI Pike Bumper With a Warn EVO VR 10-S winch. The bumper has 4-6 week lead time. I talked with RCI at the Colorado Toyota Expo and really liked the look of this bumper on their truck. Good group to talk to. At the time was discussing their skid plates (Bought), but grew to bumpers a week ago.
- I liked the look of this bumper the best
- This has beefy secondary brackets.
- Install Video and Instructions are very easy to follow
- Likely to line up better with my RCI Skid plates
- Decided to add a winch even though initially considered it a nice to have
- I did a test with 14 gallons of water on the front end and it showed droop added to suspension likely less than 0.25" for bumper and winch. Not something I will worry about. The Bumper + winch less Bumper removals is about 111 lbs. 14 gallons of water is about 116 lbs. Not fully accurate since the bumper will be on the frame rails providing more downforce.
- I have a Light Bar in my TRD Pro style Grill, so did not want big gapping holes were big light bars go. The ones on this bumper are small and don't look like something is missing. If I wanted a Lightbar, either Victory or Cali Raised would have been higher in my list
- I oscillated between CBI Super Convert and the RCI Pike for most of this. Feeling the RCI had a stronger mounting setup and I liked the look of the Pike Bumper better
I will post up once I install it
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Nice. I selected the C4. Not installed yet until I get the front springs from Dobinsons.
- Thread starter
- #65
As stated above after evaluaation several bumpers, I selected the RCI Pike Bumper and ordered it on Thursday as part of their Memorial Day sale. They told me 2-6 week lead time. I was surprized when they called me the next day and said the Bumper and winch were ready. I drove the 70 miles to Loveland to pick it up
I had watched the Install video several times
The Instructions were also very easy to follow and are attached here
There are lots of videos that go over how to remove the bumper. The instructions were very clear on how to do it. The only thing I was nervous about was trimming the old bumper. I cut the majority of it with an angle grinder after taping. It wasn't too bad! It was messy though.
I then used a dremel with a smaller cut off wheel to fine tune the cuts. Then used a grinding stone and a sand block to smooth out the cuts
I removed the Crash bar and brackets which was about 40 pounds
I then installed the bumper per the video and written instructions. This part was the easiest
I put the winch in, and had to take it out a couple of times. The Warn instructions are not as straight forward. You have to attach the power cable (ground already installed). Then you have to put the captured nuts into the bottom of the winch. Once I did that, it was easy going. RCI provides a custom bracket to put on the hanger Right side of photo) so you can reach in the bottom hole and work the clutch
I then put it all back together. As you can see, the bumper has room for the front license plate in the stock location. It does cover the RCI Logo. I asked them if they have weather proof stickers in case I want to put one on the bumper. It would partially have covered lights if I had installed that option.
I had watched the Install video several times
The Instructions were also very easy to follow and are attached here
There are lots of videos that go over how to remove the bumper. The instructions were very clear on how to do it. The only thing I was nervous about was trimming the old bumper. I cut the majority of it with an angle grinder after taping. It wasn't too bad! It was messy though.
I then used a dremel with a smaller cut off wheel to fine tune the cuts. Then used a grinding stone and a sand block to smooth out the cuts
I removed the Crash bar and brackets which was about 40 pounds
I then installed the bumper per the video and written instructions. This part was the easiest
I put the winch in, and had to take it out a couple of times. The Warn instructions are not as straight forward. You have to attach the power cable (ground already installed). Then you have to put the captured nuts into the bottom of the winch. Once I did that, it was easy going. RCI provides a custom bracket to put on the hanger Right side of photo) so you can reach in the bottom hole and work the clutch
I then put it all back together. As you can see, the bumper has room for the front license plate in the stock location. It does cover the RCI Logo. I asked them if they have weather proof stickers in case I want to put one on the bumper. It would partially have covered lights if I had installed that option.
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- Thread starter
- #66
I have the tranny and Tcase RCI aluminum skids coming. They did not have those in stock
Like I said, you can reach in the bottom hole to adjust the clutch
I am very pleased with the result. The measured droop before and after is 3/8 of an inch. Not something I am going to worry about.
I ran the power cables up near the battery. Monday I will receive my battery terminals and hook up and test the winch
Like I said, you can reach in the bottom hole to adjust the clutch
I am very pleased with the result. The measured droop before and after is 3/8 of an inch. Not something I am going to worry about.
I ran the power cables up near the battery. Monday I will receive my battery terminals and hook up and test the winch
Looks great! 
- Thread starter
- #68
I installed a GMRS Radio Today
My dilemma was were to install the tiny main unit, Midland - MXT275VP4-15 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio and the mic. This was complicated having the HAM already installed
First I fished the wires through the firewall including the antenna cable. I noticed a lot of foam which is likely sound deadening material. Up on the top left of this area in the passenger floor board against the firewall, there is a nice space for the main unit. I used Gorilla two-sided tape to attach it. It may not hold well, but in the little spot with carpet over it should be good to go.
I used the spare switch spot on the center console to install an RJ-45 jack and ran the main unit to the jack. You need a double male small cable to make it work and I had one left over from the HAM Radio. You can get these cheap anywhere
I don't like the current Mic setup on the grab bar, so I am still waiting for one of these
www.bulletpointmountingsolutions.com
I will either get a ram mount mic holder or take the ball off and mount one of my existing Mic holder.
I did have to move the HAM Mic and I used a Ram Mount with that and carefully screwed the thinnest ram mount ball into the thick plastic there.
I used the passenger ditch mount bracket for the Ghost Antenna
My dilemma was were to install the tiny main unit, Midland - MXT275VP4-15 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio and the mic. This was complicated having the HAM already installed
First I fished the wires through the firewall including the antenna cable. I noticed a lot of foam which is likely sound deadening material. Up on the top left of this area in the passenger floor board against the firewall, there is a nice space for the main unit. I used Gorilla two-sided tape to attach it. It may not hold well, but in the little spot with carpet over it should be good to go.
I used the spare switch spot on the center console to install an RJ-45 jack and ran the main unit to the jack. You need a double male small cable to make it work and I had one left over from the HAM Radio. You can get these cheap anywhere
I don't like the current Mic setup on the grab bar, so I am still waiting for one of these
2024+ Toyota Tacoma & 2025+ 4Runner Passenger Side Grab Handle Mount with 20mm Ball
Looking to securely mount a single device on the passenger side grab bar of your 2024+ Tacoma or 2025+ 4Runner? Look no further than our Taco-specific grab bar handle mount! BUILT FOR TACOMA & 4RUNNER This grab bar mount was designed exclusively for the 2024+ Toyota Tacoma & 2025+ Toyota...
www.bulletpointmountingsolutions.com
I will either get a ram mount mic holder or take the ball off and mount one of my existing Mic holder.
I did have to move the HAM Mic and I used a Ram Mount with that and carefully screwed the thinnest ram mount ball into the thick plastic there.
I used the passenger ditch mount bracket for the Ghost Antenna
- Thread starter
- #69
Today I completed my Skids plates
RCI Engine, Tranny and Tcase
RCI Rear Link Rear
This is a known weak spot. From Tinkers video
So I tried the RCI Rear Link Front Skid but it didnt work since the top bolt was used by the CBI Slider. I ended up with a DV8 skid there
Very Happy with it.
RCI Engine, Tranny and Tcase
RCI Rear Link Rear
This is a known weak spot. From Tinkers video
So I tried the RCI Rear Link Front Skid but it didnt work since the top bolt was used by the CBI Slider. I ended up with a DV8 skid there
Very Happy with it.
Just ordered the DV8 trailing arm skids over the weekend.
- Thread starter
- #71
Installed Rough County Molle panels. Now to buy a few more brackets for my stuff. Rotopax comes tomorrow
full details here Rough Country Molle Panel set works with OEM Tonneau Cover - https://www.tacoma4g.com/forum/threads/rough-country-molle-panel-set-works-with-oem-tonneau-cover.13634/#post-170483
full details here Rough Country Molle Panel set works with OEM Tonneau Cover - https://www.tacoma4g.com/forum/threads/rough-country-molle-panel-set-works-with-oem-tonneau-cover.13634/#post-170483
That looks like only the second offering I've seen that was one piece. Most are 2-3 pieces. OEM is the only option I've seen that is one piece front and sides.
Good morning, @Romer
Nice truck! I'm a year behind. I never saw this thread until today. I like your build. I'm shopping for a new Taco myself.
Does your truck have the engine shut off at traffic light then restart when you let off the brake "feature"? I have read that Tacos have it now, but I also saw that they don't have it. Or some models have it?
Nice truck! I'm a year behind. I never saw this thread until today. I like your build. I'm shopping for a new Taco myself.
Does your truck have the engine shut off at traffic light then restart when you let off the brake "feature"? I have read that Tacos have it now, but I also saw that they don't have it. Or some models have it?
kcjaz
SILVER Star
I do not believe the non-hybrid Tacos have the “shut off/restart” feature. At least my 2025 Off-road doesn’t. Or maybe it does but was never turned on, though I doubt that. It does steer and brake for you though…
My hybrid does that, but if you don’t want it you can just run in tow haul mode, which turns that off.
- Thread starter
- #76
@Rigger nice to hear from you. My taco doesnt have that feaature. It seems like thaat is a feature you can disable (Don'tr know for sure) I used a tioll on my Z4 that is better than OBI to disable that
After driving my non hybrid up to Aregentine Pass and back today, I am completely happy with the non Hybrid. One less thing to break and storage under the rear seat. You should drive both to see if you notice enough difference. Personal preference. I am real happy with the Premier package on my Off Road
- Thread starter
- #77
Took my Tacoma on its first off road run today. I took it up Argentine as part of our off road clubs volunteer cleanup day with the forest service.
Understand my comparison point is to my Land Cruiser.
I was very pleased with how it performed
It did not shift from 2H to 4LO. It beeped at me. It shifted from 2H to 4H. Then it shifted into 4LO. Looking at the manual, looks like that is the way it works, although it isn’t clear.
The cameras were nice, but pressing on the front view made it larger than the other two and that was a lot better. The rear camera works well. We hit a snow drift on a narrow shelf road and we had to backup quite a bit to find a spot to turn around. Sometimes the view from the side mirrors made it seem like I was on the very edge when I had a bit more room. They are extended out a bit from the body.
The gears are much lower than my 200 series Land Cruiser in 4LO even with a 8 speed Tranny. This is great for descending on the trail in not needing brakes and making slow climbs over obstacles. The not so good is when you get to wide open mostly flat trail and the RPMs go above 3000 at 12 MPH. This isn’t a big deal, just an observation.
The long wheel base made it harder to turn (Obviously) and it seemed like the full lock steering wasn’t as much as I am use to. Although, this could be a false impression due to my difficulties turning around on the narrow shelf road.
My HAM and GMRS radios worked perfectly and I had great range on both. Much farther on the HAM of course.
My winch worked awesome as we used 4 trucks with winches to bring upright a fence that had fallen over.
I went down an obstacle and I could feel one tire in the air. Likely wouldn’t have happened if I had the detachable stabilizer bar. That contributed to my feeling as it doesn’t have as much articulation as my Land Cruiser. I expected that since the Land Cruiser has KDSS (really cool system)
I was very pleased on how it performed and it did better than I expected. The offroad electronics and smart system are newer version of what I have in my Land Cruiser and it worked perfectly. Very point and shoot as long as you pay attention to your line. I had no issues today on its first run.
My truck is a non-Hybrid and I was very pleased at how it did driving the mountain roads. No lack of pep and made the steep climbs at high speed with no issues. The low torque allowed me to quickly pass the several yo-yo’s driving slow in the left lane when the right opened up.
These are great trucks and if this was the only vehicle I have, I wouldn’t hesitate to take it off road on any of the trails we do.
Understand my comparison point is to my Land Cruiser.
I was very pleased with how it performed
It did not shift from 2H to 4LO. It beeped at me. It shifted from 2H to 4H. Then it shifted into 4LO. Looking at the manual, looks like that is the way it works, although it isn’t clear.
The cameras were nice, but pressing on the front view made it larger than the other two and that was a lot better. The rear camera works well. We hit a snow drift on a narrow shelf road and we had to backup quite a bit to find a spot to turn around. Sometimes the view from the side mirrors made it seem like I was on the very edge when I had a bit more room. They are extended out a bit from the body.
The gears are much lower than my 200 series Land Cruiser in 4LO even with a 8 speed Tranny. This is great for descending on the trail in not needing brakes and making slow climbs over obstacles. The not so good is when you get to wide open mostly flat trail and the RPMs go above 3000 at 12 MPH. This isn’t a big deal, just an observation.
The long wheel base made it harder to turn (Obviously) and it seemed like the full lock steering wasn’t as much as I am use to. Although, this could be a false impression due to my difficulties turning around on the narrow shelf road.
My HAM and GMRS radios worked perfectly and I had great range on both. Much farther on the HAM of course.
My winch worked awesome as we used 4 trucks with winches to bring upright a fence that had fallen over.
I went down an obstacle and I could feel one tire in the air. Likely wouldn’t have happened if I had the detachable stabilizer bar. That contributed to my feeling as it doesn’t have as much articulation as my Land Cruiser. I expected that since the Land Cruiser has KDSS (really cool system)
I was very pleased on how it performed and it did better than I expected. The offroad electronics and smart system are newer version of what I have in my Land Cruiser and it worked perfectly. Very point and shoot as long as you pay attention to your line. I had no issues today on its first run.
My truck is a non-Hybrid and I was very pleased at how it did driving the mountain roads. No lack of pep and made the steep climbs at high speed with no issues. The low torque allowed me to quickly pass the several yo-yo’s driving slow in the left lane when the right opened up.
These are great trucks and if this was the only vehicle I have, I wouldn’t hesitate to take it off road on any of the trails we do.
Thanks for the trail report. Sure would be cool to have the stabi disconnect.
- Thread starter
- #79
And the final Mod . . . . . . Well, I am sure it isn't the final mod, but it is the end of the build plan I had.
Bed stiffners from Uptop Overland. These are the no drill that also have 3 holes in case you want to drill later on as you add more stuff. I have been pretty good at nutserts so I added one 6M nutsert which fit the bolts that get removed and not reused at the top. I put it right in the middle
For now, another entry in the Ken Done Gallery
Bed stiffners from Uptop Overland. These are the no drill that also have 3 holes in case you want to drill later on as you add more stuff. I have been pretty good at nutserts so I added one 6M nutsert which fit the bolts that get removed and not reused at the top. I put it right in the middle
For now, another entry in the Ken Done Gallery
