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Blue Bailey Expedition/Tow Rig Build

Discussion in '2nd Gen Builds (2007-2013)' started by LibertySand, Feb 17, 2017.

  1. Feb 17, 2017 at 8:53 AM
    #1
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Jason
    Montclair, CA
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    07 TRD DC 5.7 Tow 4X4
    I figured I start my build thread now that parts and nick nacks are rolling in. Took me some time but I've also finally gave my Tundra a name. Blue Bailey. Bailey is more of a guys name but I've meet a few girls named Bailey and it worked for my Tundra. Boom! Blue Bailey!

    Bailey-
    Ward, or bailey, a courtyard of a castle or fortification, enclosed by a curtain wall. Outer bailey, the defended outer enclosure of a castle. Inner bailey, the strongly fortified enclosure at the heart of a medieval castle. Motte-and-bailey castle.
    Bailey-
    Sir name or Given name typically Male.

    Here is a present picture of Blue Bailey taken in Johnson Valley, Landers California 2017
    Tundra-150_zpskpvfzhna_a7863b7e2ca9c8cf3bd446e6c803264c6bce65a7.jpg

    The plan is to have a cross between a Tow Rig for my 72 Scout II and an Expedition Rig when I dont want to do any hardcore wheelin in the Scout. Currently I've been daily driving the Tundra to work and back.

    Tundra:
    2007 Double Cab 5.7 TRD Tow Package Blue Pearl with the short bed.

    Current Modifications when I bought it:
    Bought in 2016. 6" Fabtech lift, Blocked rear, 34" Nitto's, Rockstar XD rims, TRD Air Intake, HID lights, HID lights in Fog lamps also.

    BEFORE:
    Tundra%203_zpssozbqo1t_60119c7656ae9060653c494db7fe6cbbc93deff6.jpg

    Since I bought it I've added lights inside the grille and got rid of the Cockstars for some 17" Bronze Methods and 35" KO2's.
    AFTER:
    1%20Tundra%20Olds%20Hill_zpsnj2tssuw_62aed3a46612d1f216d10a5db33cffa8f5f7a66b.jpg

    List of Future Modifications:

    Expedition / Bed Rack-

    Since the spare 35" Tire is a bit tight to put back under the bed I want to build a rack for the spare and other miscellaneous items. I don't plan on camping in or on the Tundra so this Expedition / Bed Rack will be more to hold Day Camp, Trail items and Rescue items. I also want to have the ability to take the Rack off when I need to use the truck for it's intended purpose, as a truck bed.

    Lights- LED 9" Lights Behind Grille
    I'm not to big on light bars since every ass in Cali has them and is now ruining the off road community by driving around the freeways with their light bars on. Only to give guys like me a bad rap and an easy ticket for not having bars now covered... I like the old look of KC or Hella lights so I found a set of Knock Off ARB Intensity 9" lights, made some brackets and shoved them behind the grille. I did a write up already.... I'll add it to this build soon.

    Transfer Fuel Spare Tire Tank-
    Since these Tundras are pigs and can't get enough Dino-Goo I plan on adding a transfer tank. I live in Cali and since they frown on making lives easier I can't install a non 50 State legal larger fuel tank like the aftermarket 46 gallon Transfer Flow one. It WILL NOT pass visual inspection, trust me, I live in an area where if the smog station see's a small crack in a line you'll have to replace every rubber tube you have. So my plan is, to add a transfer tank where the spare tire used to be under the bed. Then cover it with a skid plate. That's the plan at least. I don't want a transfer tank in the bed as I want to be able to utilize the whole bed when needed.

    Air helper springs-
    So far I have learned that the rear stock leafs aren't strong enough sitting on blocks on the axle while towing. At night I blind every Prius driver on the road since my lights are now shinning up from the sagging rear towing my trailer. So I need air ride helper springs in the rear. Still researching what I want.

    Rear Frame Support-
    So something I have learned about these Tundras is that, even though it say's we can tow 10K lbs doesnt really mean we should. I've read a few stories of guys that pull a lot of weight and the rear frame can bend a bit where the hitch is now no longer parallel with the ground but more pointing at the ground. So since I plan on pulling a load around 10K lbs eventually I am going to channel the rear frame and give it some more strength.

    New Lift-

    Eventually I want a new lift. I dont like the lack of ground clearance in the front form the Fagtech drop down brackets and what not. I'd like to get King shocks all around and aftermarket Upper/Lowers for the front. The rear I'd like to ditch the Blocks and do a Deaver spring lift of chit, maybe a 4 link since I'm down there. Still researching good lifts, there's a few out there.

    Electrical-
    I plan on adding switches to the dash to operate my lights in the grille, power a reverse/camp light, an Amber Dust light in the back, Air Compressor, power for an ARB fridge in the Bed.....

    Communication-
    I already have several hand held Rugged Radios for car to car communication but I'm looking into more powerful 50W in car radios. May be getting my HAM's license also. So this means I'll need to make some sort of bracket inside the Tundra for the radio's.


    So there you have it. Like it, Leave it or Hate it. Lets just see how long and how far this takes me to complete...
     
    Last edited: Feb 17, 2017
  2. Feb 17, 2017 at 8:54 AM
    #2
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Expedition / Bed Rack-

    So here is my plan for the Bed Rack. I want to hold my Spare tire, 1 - 4 Gallon Rotopax Gas can, 1 - 2 Gallon Water Rotopax Can, 2 SeaHorse Cases (that will have Straps, chains, Tow rope, Tools, Tire Repair Kit etc...) inside them, a Harbor Cheap "Race Jack" style and possible area for some chairs all to be secured tight.

    I made a quick Photochop of what I'd like to do. I'll be making this from flat steel and bent up. Kinda like a large metal battery box. I'll tie it all into the Tundras slide rails with T-Slots that I already have.

    Tundra%20Bed%20Rack%20Side%20Photchop%20_c58bf95e320f350026b3f1cc57fb5943289939dd.jpg
    Update Pic:
    IMG_2937.jpg

    This is the side profile where you can see the Spare tire and a "number wing" that I plan on adding a rear facing Amber inside of.
    Tundra%20Bed%20Rack%20Side%20Photchop%20_442384e1883a08db967b5c346754a955e7e63b76.jpg

    My Rotopax cans that I just got from the Group buy in the other week from here.
    Tundra%20Rotopax_zpsqox8srei_515e046663d83178c5d5d6b0d9d0f6822e11fb57.jpg

    My Harbor Freight "Race Jack" that I will be adding the passenger side of the Bed Rack.
    Tundra%20Jack_zpsl2yqbxzw_faf4750569dd57f44ce8bc471cd3628971abc367.jpg

    The 2 SeaHorse cases (kinda like Pelican Cases but way cheaper and better) that I'll have Miscellaneous Tools and Gear in for the Tundra and Rescue Gear.
    Tundra%20Seahorse%20Cases_zpsy8zrzdm5_e575aeaa7d1f6f6e03d2f9b71b1090ee5df184f1.jpg
     
    Last edited: Apr 19, 2017
  3. Feb 17, 2017 at 8:54 AM
    #3
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Reserved for Advertising 2
     
  4. Feb 17, 2017 at 8:54 AM
    #4
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Jason
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    Reserved for Advertising 3
     
  5. Feb 17, 2017 at 9:23 AM
    #5
    TheBeast

    TheBeast The Beach

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    I like it. Any plans on getting rid of the chrome ? I think it would look even better with the black fenders and 35"
     
  6. Feb 17, 2017 at 10:50 AM
    #6
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Jason
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    I've thought about it but it's low on the totem pole of the build. I'm partial for chrome but it works for what I got on it. I may just get some aftermarket bumpers. I thought about getting something for the rear bumper.
     
  7. Feb 17, 2017 at 5:15 PM
    #7
    blue16

    blue16 New Member

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    Your truck is looking good . I am liking the rack idea
     
    LibertySand[OP] likes this.
  8. Feb 17, 2017 at 6:20 PM
    #8
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Jason
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    I'll be doing all my measurements this weekend for the rack. Then have a coworker give me a hand with the Solid Works drawings when I get back into the office.

    I'll also measure for a second rack near the tailgate to hold my 65qt YETI and another locking tray/box for firewood or miscellaneous crap I don't want in the cab. I'll make this rack low also so the YETI's lid is bed rail height. All able to use T Slots in the rails.

    IMG_1760.jpg
     
    dcsleeper408 likes this.
  9. Feb 17, 2017 at 7:10 PM
    #9
    040Tundra

    040Tundra Teddy 2013-2019

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    Las Vegas, NV
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    A little of this and a little of that.
    I like your truck brutha! Your rack sounds/looks like it's going to be awesome. Can't wait to see it.
     
    LibertySand[OP] likes this.
  10. Feb 17, 2017 at 8:11 PM
    #10
    MotoTundra

    MotoTundra The Ocho

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    -TRS Mini D2S Retrofit on TRD Pro Headlights (Apollo 2.0 Shrouds, 35w XB Ballasts, 5500k Bulbs) -Baja Designs Squadron R Sport Aux lights. -TRD Pro Grill -TRD Rear Sway Bar -BakFlip VP Tonneau w/BakBox -Dipped wheels & bumpers -Iron Cross HD steps -Undercover Swingcase -SunTek Paint Protection film -Tinted glass -Bedmat -OEM Towing Mirrors
    I love your truck, those wheels look great! I have never heard of seahorse cases, I need to check them out. Have you ever used them for rifles?

    Also I'm very jealous of the dunes. "Riding dunes" is definitely on my bucket list.
     
  11. Feb 17, 2017 at 8:28 PM
    #11
    ColoradoTJ

    ColoradoTJ Certified tow LEO Staff Member

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    Calibrated Power 5 Tune pack, Allison 1000 tune, PPE deep trans pan, Cold/Hot CAC pipes, Banks CAI, PCV reroute, resonator delete, S&B 62 gal fuel tank, B&W GN hitch
    This is going to be a sweet build. The color is one of my favorite colors. The Methods with the bronze color have been talking to me.

    Have you considered 4.88 gear swap to tow that kind of weight? Do you currently have a trailer to tow the Scout II? The Tundra frame does flex a lot in the rear (designed that way for overloading), but the people I have heard of bending frames or hitches were grossly overweight.

    The 4.88 gears would also help with the extra weight you are adding with all the accessories.

    Food for thought. I towed 8K behind my Tundra in stock form, but you are not as high in elevation as we are in CO. Your not losing 18-32% of your power.
     
    zcarpenter92 likes this.
  12. Feb 17, 2017 at 9:03 PM
    #12
    Porschetech29

    Porschetech29 New Member

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    Francis
    Rancho Cucamonga, CA
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    2008 white double cab 4x4
    Looking good. Love the blue with bronze Methods. I think I saw you on the opposite side of the 60fwy earlier this week.
     
    LibertySand[OP] likes this.
  13. Feb 18, 2017 at 2:04 AM
    #13
    dcsleeper408

    dcsleeper408 BASTRDS

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    mark
    San Jose CA
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    I like where you are heading! :thumbsup:
     
  14. Mar 6, 2017 at 9:42 PM
    #14
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Jason
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    So as usual, time, kids and work get in the way but I've got enough sketches and measurements to get me something I can start with for the Spare Tire Expedition Rack.
    IMG_1917.jpg
     
  15. Mar 6, 2017 at 9:48 PM
    #15
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Probably was me... my route usually is Resivoir 60 to 57 to 91 to 5 exit Artesia in the Morning. Then reverse that around 5PM on the way home.
    Thanks

    So that being said, I saw the Tundras to Sedona 2017 Promo...
    ....and now I want to make my own Cali Tundra sticker. Curious if someone has one already but in the mean time, I'll make my own. Still working out the details.
    Screen Shot 2017-03-06 at 9.23.13 PM.png
    EDIT:
    The color is irrelevant and most likely will be an all white vinyl sticker. I also noticed that the other AZ sticker says TUNDRA"S". I'll be adding an S as well.
     
    Last edited: Mar 7, 2017
  16. Mar 25, 2017 at 4:13 PM
    #16
    TheBeast

    TheBeast The Beach

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    Cali Tundra is a good idea. I would be in for one ;)
    Post the idea in the california sub forum
     
    LibertySand[OP] likes this.
  17. Mar 29, 2017 at 7:09 PM
    #17
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Had a chance to work on the next phase of the Bed Spare tire storage Rack.

    Modeling in Solidworks. Will be using .120" CRS then powder coat it all. There will be various speed holes and weight reduction holes. I will be using stainless carriage bolts to make it a full bolt in. And T slots to bolt it all onto the inner bed rails.
    IMG_2371.jpg
     
    dcsleeper408 and ReCKzX like this.
  18. Mar 29, 2017 at 7:24 PM
    #18
    ReCKzX

    ReCKzX New Member

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    I really like your spare ideas! I want something similar but I need to have room for a dog crate as well.
     
    LibertySand[OP] likes this.
  19. Mar 29, 2017 at 9:29 PM
    #19
    kenomouth64

    kenomouth64 New Member

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    Hold the Line! If you are not holding the line, abandon your ship. Destruction is inevitable without more to hold the line!
    Very nice modifications. I love the color and attention to detail. I am sensing that you may have Engineering experience?
     
    LibertySand[OP] likes this.
  20. Mar 30, 2017 at 12:03 AM
    #20
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    You could say that with a Graphics background and working for a Laser Manufacturing company has its benifits. No talent wasted.
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Nov 28, 2018
  21. Apr 17, 2017 at 10:36 PM
    #21
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    dcsleeper408 likes this.
  22. Apr 18, 2017 at 5:36 PM
    #22
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Jason
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    Hoping tomorrow to cut and bend this masterpiece.
    IMG_2920.jpg
     
  23. Apr 18, 2017 at 7:02 PM
    #23
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Just got my Sticker, just need to find a spot for it. IMG_2921.jpg


    IMG_2922.jpg
     
    zcarpenter92 likes this.
  24. Apr 19, 2017 at 1:30 PM
    #24
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    It's on!!!
    IMG_2925.jpg
    IMG_2923.jpg
     
    Black Wolf likes this.
  25. Apr 19, 2017 at 7:23 PM
    #25
    LibertySand

    LibertySand [OP] IH Support Rig

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    Test fitting. IMG_2927.jpgIMG_2938.jpgIMG_2939.jpgIMG_2943.jpgIMG_2934.jpgimage.jpg
     
  26. Apr 19, 2017 at 7:28 PM
    #26
    blue16

    blue16 New Member

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    Mesa AZ
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    That is looking sweet.
     
    LibertySand[OP] likes this.
  27. Apr 19, 2017 at 8:17 PM
    #27
    Tacotundra

    Tacotundra New Member

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    Nice work!!
     
  28. Apr 19, 2017 at 10:31 PM
    #28
    Spolar

    Spolar Going broke

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    Seal Beach CA
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    Looks really clean man. Definitely plan to be checking that out in person next week.
     
  29. Apr 19, 2017 at 11:25 PM
    #29
    aperezsh

    aperezsh Blessed are the peacemakers

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    A little this and that...Broke now
    Good stuff brother!
     
  30. Apr 19, 2017 at 11:56 PM
    #30
    Thegr8punkin

    Thegr8punkin A G.D.M/Sofa King Cool/COTJ's dreamboat

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    Looks sweet nan
     

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