Finished (For Now) The Tacoma Built for the Long Haul

Finished (For Now)!

The TREAD Edition Tacoma has reached its final form. The last time we checked in, the truck had just received a fresh wrap, the Body Armor 4×4 HiLine front bumper was installed alongside a WARN winch, and the NYTOP full carbon flares were locked into place.

If you’re just tuning in, here’s a quick recap of everything that’s gone into this project. The first step was dialing in the suspension, wheels, and tires. A Stage 4 kit from ICON Vehicle Dynamics with 2.5 bypass shocks set the foundation, providing the performance needed for both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The truck sits on Dirty Life 9303 DT-1 17×9 wheels wrapped in Amp Terrain Attack RTs in 275/85R17—a combination that transformed the Tacoma’s handling and overall feel.

With the suspension in place, it was time to focus on armor. Revo Rock Sliders and a Pro Series II rear bumper with dual swing arms from Body Armor 4×4 were installed to protect the truck’s rockers and rear end. The addition of Body Armor’s new topper provided extra storage, while a Tuff Stuff Overland rooftop tent made sure the Tacoma was ready for extended adventures. To bring everything together, Overland Tailor Tuning provided an OEM+ tune, refining the Tacoma’s power delivery and making it feel like it should have straight from the factory.

With the major work done, it was time for the details that would take the build to the next level. A Decked drawer system with dual sliders was installed in the bed for storage and organization. Body Armor 4×4 ditch lights were wired up to improve night visibility, while Maxtrax traction boards found a home mounted to the topper. Water and fuel containers were secured, ensuring the Tacoma was fully self-sufficient for long-haul adventures. With everything dialed in, it was time to hit the road—destination: SEMA, Las Vegas.

This trip wasn’t just about making it to SEMA—it was an opportunity to revisit childhood stomping grounds. Opting for the backroads, the route wound through Beaver Dam Wash and the Joshua Tree-covered landscapes of Southern Utah. For me, this part of the country holds deep roots. Growing up, I spent countless hours chasing cattle on horseback and hunting mule deer here, and getting to share it with my wife this time around made the journey even more meaningful.

After returning from SEMA, it wasn’t long before the itch for another adventure set in. Idaho winters don’t exactly make for ideal camping conditions, but eventually the family and I couldn’t take it anymore—we needed a road trip. Instead of heading somewhere warm, we made the questionable decision to head Northeast, chasing winter across Wyoming and South Dakota.

Devil’s Tower was the first stop, and while Mount Rushmore had been on my bucket list for a long time, nothing prepared me for the experience of seeing Devil’s Tower up close. If you haven’t been, add it to your list. The cold weather kept us from breaking out the rooftop tent, but the trip was still a success, proving once again that this Tacoma was built for the long haul.

With each trip, this build continues to prove itself, and the adventures are far from over. Plans for the next expedition are already in the works, and I can’t wait to share what’s next for the Tacoma.

This build wouldn’t have been possible without the support of some incredible people and brands. Huge thanks to The Wheel Group—including Body Armor 4×4, Dirty Life Wheels, Amp Tires, and Tuff Stuff Overland. Thanks also to Jaden at Andersen Printing for the killer wrap, Side by Side Outlet for helping dial in the fuel and water storage, Preston at Pristine Detailing, Kyler and Shanda at Dirty’s Detail Lab, Cris Payne at Truck Guru, Justin and Stephanie at OTT, and of course, Shane Wootan, who put in the wrench hours with me to make this build a reality.

I can’t wait to share the rest of the journey with you all!