The new high-clearance front bumper carries a Warn 8,000-pound winch, but can also handle a 9.5ti if you really think you need it. The rock guard nerf bars kick out in the rear, which keeps the body away from biting rocks. In the back, an All Pro Extreme Duty rear bumper wraps around the back end for more rock protection. The transfer case is protected by an All Pro skidplate. Jon also bolted on the company's E-locker skidplate that protects that little jewel in the rocks. Diff armor was installed, along with a low-profile drain plug.
During the photo shoot, the Taco' exhibited superb manners on and off the road. The 285x75R16LT BFGoodrich Radial All-Terrain TAs mounted on 16x8-inch Weld wheels with OMF bead locks worked well in providing flotation and clearance; the suspension soaked up bumps at high speeds and, while very stable (good-bye body roll), still provided plenty of articulation. Jon has built this truck to work well for 90 percent of Taco' owners who want to travel beyond the pavement. For you other 10 percent, watch for a Tacoma straight-axle conversion, hybrid Dana 60 frontend, and other modifications that will turn Jon's soft-shell Tacoma into a Taco' supreme.