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What were your goals when building out your vehicle?
Keep it clean. Keep it simple. Don't stand out. Impress up close.
Is the vehicle used for work, play, or both?
All of the above! Daily driver. Boat puller. Decoy trailer hauler. Etc.
Was the build done over time, or all at once?
Almost immediately. Truck was delivered with aftermarket tires. Lift was installed within two weeks of receiving truck. DECKED Drawers and CargoGlide were installed Day 2 of owning it. Shell took a few months due to build time. Rearview camera was installed within a week after shell was put on. New DECKED drawers were installed just before Thanksgiving.
What were some things you wanted to change?
Height adjustment, DECKED Drawers, and topper were the three biggest changes I wanted to see happen.
What was the first modification, and why?
If we don’t count the tires or the DECKED system, it was the lift. A leveled truck looks and feels so much better than stock. Adds capability and comfort if done right.
What's your approach to cargo management? How do you use your Drawer System?
If it fits it ships! I treat each drawer like a game of Tetris. If there’s a gap anywhere, I try to figure out what could fit. Drawerganizer holds and Eno, loose ammo, game totes, flashlights, etc. The Halfracks hold gun cleaning kits, tire patch kits, tools, extra gun slings, loose change, snacks, duck calls. Literally anything. As for the drawers, they handle my waders, wading vests, cases and boxes of shells, rolled up rain coats, and I go nowhere without the Uncharted x DECKED survival kit.
Do you have a favorite mod?
I really don’t. I’ve never been one to add just to add so everything I’ve put or will put on and in my truck will serve a purpose. The stuff I add is sort like having a 4 wheel drive option. I may only have to use it every now and then, but in those moments it's the most important thing I’ve got!
What's next, are there any other upgrades on the horizon?
Looking ahead, there may be some changes to the bumpers but there will most definitely be some engine performance enhancements when I get close to that 100k mark and the warranty runs out. 😏
Have there been any mods you regretted afterwards?
For a split second I regretted adding 37" tires. But I took care of that QUICK with a knife and some zip ties. Rubbing was BAD, but not for long.
BUILD LIST
GMC 2024 Sierra 2500 HD Denali Ultimate
Toyo Tires Open Country M/T, 37"
GFC Platform Topper
Camera Source rearview camera
Skyjacker Suspension - C20350KX 3-3.5" Front Torsion Key, Upper Control Arm Lift Kit
Skyjacker Suspension - ADX 2.0 Remote Reservoir Monotube Shocks
]]>First of all, do you use the vehicle for work, for play, or both?
I definitely use the vehicle for both. I’m an electrician, and on-the-fly jobs come up where you have to go help a buddy out or wire a vehicle or wire someone’s new shop/garage/house. I daily drive it for my full-time job, but mainly it was built for play. Weekend warrior.
What were your goals when building out your vehicle?
Long distance travel. I wanted to be able to take the truck anywhere, anytime, and drive across Canada, up and down the East Coast and then also I want to do up and down the West Coast. The idea was to try to reach all the oceans that touch North America. The kind of vehicle I could live out of without staying in hotels, and also travel to mountain peaks...That’s how we got to where we are today!
Was the build done over time, or all at once?
I’ve actually built the truck…three times now. Build it up a certain way, find something that I don’t love, tear it back down, rebuild it. Slowly I’ve worked out the kinks I don’t like. Right now it’s got a bedrack and tent on it, kind of the temporary winter camping setup. It definitely takes time, you can’t do it all at once unless money’s not an object or you know exactly what you’re looking for. I think anybody that goes into building a vehicle for the first time builds it more than once.
What were some of the things that weren’t working out?
When I first built the truck, I had a lower-end suspension on it. I stepped up to a 2.5” coilover, but with the amount of driving and the amount of abuse it was taking, we decided to pull those off and put on a full adjustable reservoir kit. I found out I kinda needed some gears to pull around the extra weight, so the stock gearing wasn’t doing it for me. I want to be inside the bed of the truck in my camper when it’s cold or hot or rainy. I travel with two dogs and a fiancee so it’s nice to have a little more privacy that’s not just "outside" all the time. Being able to climb through and go with a full-on camper like AluCab or GoFast or Super Pacific is the end goal of the build.
What was the first mod?
Lights? Lights before lockers they say, it’s definitely a running joke. I wanted the fancy lights, I thought it was cool. I put ditch lights on the truck. Someone stole them off the vehicle and did more damage than the lights were worth. Kinda learned my lesson there! From there I started building it the right way, doing a front bumper, rock sliders, full skids, rear bumper, full suspension, wheels, lockers, and all that stuff.
What’s your approach to cargo management and how do you use the DECKED Drawer System?
I found that when you throw everything in the bed of the truck, it’s hard to get at. Especially when you add things like toppers and campers. You can’t reach all the way in the back. So it’s nice to just pull a drawer out and get all that access to the bed. My fiancee’s also 5’1”, so she can’t reach into the bed of the truck. [With drawers,] she can still access everything from our recovery gear to the camping gear to the dry food. Having the dry, warm storage that's not gonna be full of snow or water makes a big difference. You can put valuables in there that you need all the time.
Are there are any mods done specifically for its job?
The two most important mods that I’ve done:
1. Onboard air. I have an ARB compressor underneath the hood through a custom bracket built by Krave Automotive, it’s sweet. That’s a must-have because you blow a tire, get a flat, I have the ability to change that, blow out air filters.
2. My custom battery setup. Run lights at night, be able to winch heavier, run a fridge full-time. Boy, I can leave my vehicle for a week at a time, fridge running, and it never dies. Those are the must-haves, for me.
Do you have a favorite mod?
I’d say one of my favorite “mods,” which actually came factory from Toyota, is a manual transmission. I think it’s really cool to still drive something in 2023 with a manual trans, they’re kind of a dying breed. Nothing is more fun than sending it down a backroad, getting sideways, and being able to actually control your shift points. Drive the vehicle instead of having the vehicle drive you!
Are there any goal upgrades on the horizon?
The goal for 2024 is gonna be doing some sort of camper, whether it’s a GoFast Camper out of Montana, Super Pacific, or an AluCab. After that I am gonna find a way to build out the interior. Utilize the DECKED system as a flat platform, it raises us a little higher so we can get out of the bed easier, but build it into some type of living space that’s usable full-time. I’d like to be able to drive down to Baja Mexico, do a two-month trip and live strictly out of the vehicle. I’ve got some friends who are actually leaving today to do that. That’s my goal, and keep everything super simple at the same time.
Is there a story from when the vehicle saved the day?
The vehicle has a purpose and always does its job. It gets us out of sticky situations when you have vehicles with trailers sliding off hillsides—and you’ve gotta use a winch to help straighten them—to just being able to get back home safely every trip. When you push it to some of the places we go in Alberta, without the vehicle you wouldn’t be able to get there and home safely. You kinda need every little piece. From the wheels to the tires to the suspension, everything has a purpose.
One time my friend found himself in the woods, one of the trucks broke down. He was probably 2km back down a quad trail, and we actually took 5 of us to go get the other vehicle back. It took 3 trucks, 3 winches, and a bunch of extensions to winch this truck up the icy hill it got caught at the bottom of. Without us it probably wouldn’t have been capable of getting up on its own…or waiting until spring, I guess.
Have there been any mods you regretted afterwards? How did you resolve it?
Sometimes if you cheap out in the wrong areas, you can end up regretting that. Things that save your life, things that hold the vehicle together, you don’t really want to cheap out on. It’s OK to cheap out on lighting, interior mods. You don’t want to cheap out on suspension when wheeling hard, you don’t want a wheel to fall off, you don’t want to cheap out on the maintenance side of things. There’s places to cheap out and other aspects of the build that are more important.
BUILD LIST
Elka 2.5 DC resi's
Dobinsons 112R leaf springs
Timbren bump stops with U-bolt flip kit
Accutune adjustable upper control arms
Custom fender liners & cab mount chop by Krave Automotive
Yukon 5.29 gears with ARB air locker
ARB twin compressor with custom Krave Automotive under hood mount
ARB safari snorkel
Switch Pros official & PowerTrays mount
3D printed dash mount for controller
C4 Fabrication Hybrid bumper & rock sliders
Smittybilt 10k winch
Factor 55 shackle rope guard & fairlead
Outgear Solutions HC rear bumper
OK eXpedition Full aluminum skids
RCI diff skid
C4 Fabrication Bed Rack
Treeline Outdoors rooftop tent
DECKED Drawer System
Yokohama G003s 295/70/17 tires
SCS Gen5 -38 Wheels
Custom dual battery system behind rear seats
Baja Designs lighting: white LP6 Pros, Amber 30" S8, Amber Squadron Pros, Amber S2 Sports
Dometic 45L fridge
Custom seat delete
Upgraded sound system
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Overland Expo Mtn West in Loveland, CO reminds us that summer is tipping towards fall, but stoke was high and vibes were positive all weekend. Heavy rain on Friday made tents and awnings more popular than ever. Once the storm cleared, we were able to hunt down a ton of Drawer Systems in other exhibitor's booths. DECKED: the choice of the pros!
One of our company rigs was on the scene, DECKED out with free beer coozies and a CargoGlide mounted on top of the Drawer System for ultimate ease of access.
Wherever we go, people ask the same thing: "Can I have one of those?" You sure can! Swag for days at our booth.
The big dogs at GMC decided to outfit their new Sierra HD AT4X AEV with a DECKED Drawer System. This truck was fully loaded with all the bells and whistles we could think of, and a few more on top of that.
DECKED amiga and Tacomaniac Redhead Jess was present once again at the Leitner Designs booth.
RedArc brought a juiced F-150. Their systems provide reliable power whether you're still on the grid or hundreds of clicks off it.
Another big name in the overlanding world, Go Fast Campers, rocked a well-used Drawer System in one of their display trucks. That dirt lets you know the truck gets used, no pavement princesses here! Scope the camper color swatches on the forward bulkhead.
The fish whisperers at Orvis are making good use of our organizers. They've got a standard Drawerganizer and Double Drawerganizer to organize odds and ends at the head of the drawers. They trust the D-Box with Custom Foam to keep expensive reels safe over rough terrain.
Another DECKED family member and fellow Idahoan, Tim Muniz, shows off his Toyota Tundra at the CBI Offroad booth. Idaho represent!
We've been giving away Drawer Systems if you can complete our Tough Guy Challenge...Ryan here didn't take the top prize, but he walked away with a brand new D-Bag for being the top challenger!
We gave away several more D-Bags and a complete Uncharted Supply Co. Emergency D-Bag to our lucky raffle winner, Mikaela R.!
Catch us in our backyard for the Panhandle Overland Rally in Sandpoint, Idaho from Sept 29-Oct 1. We'll close out this year's Overland Expo series in Virginia at OvEx East, October 6-8. Come say hi, crack a can, and grab a sticker! We'll see you on the road.
]]>My name's Matt Mendes, I am a fly fishing guide on the Deschutes River. We specialize in two handed casting instruction and swing flies for trout and steelhead. This year marks my 16th season on the river as a CTWS fly fishing guide. Our family has been in business since 1996 as enrolled Warm Springs tribal members and fly fishing guides.
What is it like growing up on the reservation and how did you end up becoming a guide?
I was very blessed to be able to grow up on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, fly fishing at a young age & hunting elk and deer (big game), etc.
I started hunting upland birds in my late 20s as well, and man, I really enjoy it when I’m not on the water.
What is so special about fishing on the reservation?
Fly fishing on the reservation is one of the best fly fishing experiences in the world. From the solitude, the runs, the tail outs and riffles. Not to mention, the inch per inch power of the wild trout we have to offer. Summer steelhead season and casting spey rods keeps me engaged year after year.
What are the best times of year to book a trip with you?
Best times to book with us are:
May/June/July for Redsides and September/October/November for summer steelhead.
What should a client expect on a day during peak season?
You can expect many fish per day dryfly situations, casting spey rigs on absolutely mental pieces of water and ample nymphing opportunities.
Outside of fishing what do you do in your spare time?
When I am not on the river I bow hunt elk in September and rifle hunt deer in October. We also have several other opportunities to hunt big game off reservation on ceded land in the surrounding areas in November. Most of the winter I chase chukars and huns on and off reservation in eastern Oregon.
What DECKED products do you use?
I have the DECKED Drawer System installed on my Ram 2500 6.7l Turbo Diesel and the Tool Box/ladder system installed as well. The rig has storage boxes installed and the Piecekeeper inserts for rifles and shotguns, which is my favorite insert in the system.
How do they make life as a fly fishing guide easier?
The Drawer System and cargo boxes make guiding more simplified as I know where everything is and am much more organized. I can grab what I’m looking for quickly and equipment is stowed away neatly.
What's your favorite accessory and why?
Piecekeepers are my fav as I’m always ready for a hunt or my next outdoor adventure.
If someone's new to fly fishing, what's a good tip to help them get started?
If you’re new to fly fishing the best mindset you can have is enjoy being in it! Waving a stick and don’t focus so much on the numbers. Enjoy getting your boots wet.
]]>
First of all, does Brutus get used for work, play, or both?
Everything. From chasing the wildest storms on the planet, to getting the kids to basketball practice.
Spring/summer: chasing tornadoes, off-roading, overlanding, camping, towing ATVs, roadtripping Canada & the United States.
Fall/winter: towing snowmobiles to backcountry spots in the mountains, snowboarding, touring the Canadian Rockies, tackling blizzards with 2-3 feet of snow on the roads.
How does it do in terms of highway travel?
It's awesome. There's a bit of road noise from the tires, but you only hear that if the windows are open. Otherwise it rides pretty much like when it was stock, it's great for highway travel.
Do you travel with a co-pilot?
Yeah, absolutely. We always work as a team, sometimes with two people, ideally 3 or 4 in the truck. We need a dedicated driver. When shit hits the fan, roads can be washed out, we have to deal with flash flooding, or the road that we were meant to take got blocked off because of downed power lines or other types of debris. The driver has to be hyper focused on that. There's other traffic out there, whether it's other storm chasers, or locals that need to get to safety, so that driver needs to be absolutely focused on what they're doing.
What do the other team members do?
We also need somebody who is handling the weather. Keeping an eye on the sky and seeing what's happening, and also reading the radar. We can see where the storm has come from, where it's projected to go. We can read how big the hail might be inside the storm, which can speak to storm strength. We can see the kind of lightning that's happening inside the storm from the radar. That gives an indication of where a safe route might be.
The whole reason why we're there: of course it's to report to the public, but also to capture photos and videos. If we don't get that, well, we won't be storm chasing very long. It takes a minimum of two people to make that happen. Even with two people, that's a lot to accomplish, so ideally we're working with three or four.
How do you make that happen in the truck?
It's straight from what you might see in a police vehicle, a RAM computer mount. We throw a laptop into it, hook up additional screens as well. We're on our phones for the weather and also to run our livestream, that's part of our model. We get these live warnings out to the public through livestreaming. Weather, roadmaps, livestreaming.
We look at multiple weather models to lay out certain indicators of where the severe storms might show up. As the day approaches, it gets down to just 2 or 3 forecasting models that we'll use. One is actual radar of what's happening, we'll look at cloud cover and a few other things that give indications of what's happening with the storm.
It's typically one vehicle at a time, not a caravan?
The most you ever see is 2 or maybe 3 vehicles. You want to run with one vehicle because sometimes inside these storms we can't quite see what's around us. If we have to back up or make a split-second decision, that can be a dangerous moment having a second vehicle, we've learned.
We're making a choice to get beside these tornados, and as much as we can predict it, there's still a lot that's unpredictable. There is danger, we do our best to mitigate it, but there is risk.
There's lots of of rain, lots of hail. Once we get into high winds, if you open your door -- I've had it happen -- it gets ripped right off. So once those winds start to pick up, you can't get out and talk to that other vehicle. Lots of times, cell phone towers get knocked down. If cell phones aren't working, we will have radios. The truth is, once the adrenaline starts going, messages can get missed or miscommunicated.
A lot of times, if you do see a second vehicle, that's another set of storm chasers who know what they're doing. Many times we'll split up because we have different goals, different objectives.
Have you had major equipment failures?
Just with our software itself. The software will stop communicating. Sometimes the radar systems we use will go offline, but that will be really scary, particularly if it's dark.
We've had past trucks that had external roll cages, but they added so much wind noise...We used to have satellite feeds for weather radar, but we don't need it anymore because all that technology is integrated into phone apps now.
What specific modifications have been made for storm chasing?
The protective coating. Our truck is completely covered in Line-X. The reason we have that is we'll get hit by really big hail. We'll get hit by debris from the tornado. Pretty quickly, your car can get dented or ripped up. Before we ran Line-X, we had steel stuck into the side of our truck. We run a clear 3M exoshield on our windows, it's not foolproof but it's a bit stronger than just the window.
We could run this on a half-ton like an F150, but have it on a three-quarter ton F250. In a half-ton, in these really high winds, we'd get tossed around. In the three-quarter ton, it feels like a train, you barely feel it. Especially when we get onto washed out roads, which does happen often. Oftentimes in the south, the mud and clay get slick. In the past, a half-ton would lose control pretty quickly, in this heavier truck we stick to one line and it keeps us safe and moving forward.
When you're on the ground, how intense are the winds?
Typically we're experiencing 60-80mph winds, anything more than that and you're getting too close and it's pretty dangerous.
What do you keep in your Drawer System?
Our camera equipment, that's the nuts and bolts of what we do. GoPros, GoPro 360s, Sony DSLRs, and all the mounting systems and grip gear. We have the DECKED x Uncharted D-Bag Emergency Kit. Beyond that, it's holding our clothing. I know that sounds silly but that's what our gear consists of: camera gear, first aid equipment, computer gear. We trust those compartments the most for keeping it waterproof and keeping it safe.
Do you have any wishlist mods in mind for Brutus or a different vehicle you'd like to try out?
That's a good question! I see those trophy trucks that can take anything, but I don't think it'd be quite practical for carrying a team and gear and everything else. The inner child in me would love that for 15 minutes of storm chasing. The truth is, as much as we need a truck that is geared up to perform when shit hits the fan, 95% of the miles on this truck are highway miles.
(Fellow storm chaser) Reed Timmer runs this tank called the Dominator, they've driven it into two tornadoes. It's steel-plated, they can lower it to the ground, they've got spikes that can come out of it. Really cool looking vehicle, but as soon as it gets off pavement and gets onto washed out dirt roads and mud, if they hit the ditch, they're stuck. That's where our truck performs, not only can we hit any ditch but if anybody else gets stuck, we can pull them out too.
Back home in Canada, some mornings there's 2 or 3 feet of fresh snow on the roads. I know my truck will get me wherever I need to go. There's many reasons why our truck is built the way it is, I've been doing this for 11 years. I know what I want to accomplish, and that's what this truck is built for.
Brutus
2022 Ford F250 Super Duty Lariat, from Valley Ford
Leitner Designs ACS Cargo System
Front Runner roof rack
Line-X protective coating across entire vehicle
Fabtech bumpers and fenders
Anthem Rogue 20" wheels
General Tire 37" Grabber X3s
Rough Country 1.5" leveling lift kit
Warn Evo 12 winch
KC HiLites lighting
Rig'D UltraSwing spare tire mount
RAM Mounts laptop mount
WeBoost overland cell signal booster
]]>We made sure the display trucks in our booth were fully stocked with everything show attendees want to get their hands on. Major thanks to Ricky Forbes and Tim Muniz for loaning us their trucks and spreading the good vibes with us.
Our guy @wandertaco was highlighted at the CBI Offroad booth all weekend. Let's take a look at his Drawer System...
The new security system! Meet Camper, a road dog in training.
Our coworker and in-house photo guy Matt drives a Power Wagon, so he's always on the lookout for hot Rams in the crowd. This AEV flatbed conversion is lookin' pretty capable on 37" tires and without too many bells and whistles.
This Ram 5500 conversion from Global Expedition Vehicles is on the opposite side of the spectrum. More IS more, it turns out.
Another heavy duty Ram conversion, this time from the heavy payload specialists at Elevation Off Grid.
Even more Ram action. Our chief complaint: when you eliminate the factory pickup bed, where are you supposed to install the Drawer System?
We've always had a soft spot for older trucks. This Gen-1 Tacoma looked every bit as capable as the $100k+ builds.
Diesel? Check. Right-hand drive? Check. Matte paint and custom bits all over? Check. This Hilux sponsored by Kenda Tires is ready to get to work.
These old Sunrader campers are sweet, but require a lot of work to deliver true 4x4 performance. This example from Elevated Overland in New Mexico is at the top of our wishlist.
A restomod Jeep Wagoneer was a show favorite, right around the corner at the Global Offroad.us booth.
This race-prepped G Wagen was the main attraction at the Scheel-Mann booth. "Gute Fahrt" means "good ride," but you can share your favorite gas-related jokes with us on social media.
It wasn't all vintage rigs. Here's a glimpse at the next Land Cruiser to become available in the States.
We love seeing DECKED equipment in the wild. Our new bud Jason is a professional mechanic and had one of the cleanest Gen 3 Tacomas we've seen. He gave us a peek at his Drawer System to show off how he stays organized in the backcountry.
It ain't Overland Expo without going over the top. This 6x6 monstrosity is based on the Jeep Gladiator and was drawing crowds throughout the weekend.
This Toyota Tacoma from Stellar Built has some unusual footwear. Is this the "toe shoes" of the truck world?
We gave away product all weekend long, handing out accessories and stickers to the masses and even awarding one lucky winner with a complete Drawer System of his own. Be sure to join us next month at Overland Expo Mtn West in Loveland, Colorado from Aug 25-27.
]]>True passion draws you out of your comfort zone, and connects you with new people in unfamiliar places. Tres Amigos Outfitters is a world-class fly fish guide service operating in the southern part of Argentina. This might be a bucket list dream for many of us, but for the three amigos, it's business as usual.
Tell us a bit about yourselves and where you're from.
My name is Juan Manuel and I’m a partner in Tres Amigos, an outfitter located in south Patagonia, based in Río Gallegos city. We are three good friends that share the same passion for fly fishing and decided to take it to the next level. Now we scout, develop and operate different lodges for ourselves and partner companies.
We feel very lucky not only with the way we understand each other but the process of getting the best of each part of the work, we’re very much like-minded and complement very well--egos aside--focused on our goals.
How and why did you get into fly fishing?
It was easy to become a fisherman in this part of the world when we were kids, getting it from family and friends in our case. There is so much water--and big fish--not far from where we live. It's still nowadays one of the favorite outdoor activities for locals.
We began when we were kids like most, first with a spinning rod, then with a fly rod.
What is it about fly fishing specifically that you enjoy?
Fly fishing is the perfect excuse to get in touch with nature, to have quality time with your kids, friends, clients. No technology (only for photos). We are lucky to still not have cellphone signal in most of our fisheries, so no messages or phones ringing. Something harder and harder to find these days. I’d say fly fishing is our favorite way of meditation.
What makes Patagonia such an amazing fishing destination?
Patagonia still has very remote and low pressure fisheries. Big fish, pristine nature and solitude. You also have a number of different species in a very close distance range. Chinook salmon, steelhead, sea-run brown trout, brooks, browns, rainbows and more…
Also, the beauty of the Patagonian steppe, the “estancias” (ranches) and their traditions. I should definitely mention the amazing sunsets, asados and Malbec, and a lot more...Patagonia has that magic, that wilderness that makes it special.
What kinds of fish can clients expect to catch if they take a trip with you?
We own three programs: Los Plateados, where we target Steelhead in the Santa Cruz River; Glacier King, where we fish for big chinook salmon located at the heart of Glaciers National Park; and finally big brook and brown trout mainly on dry flies in Estancia Río Pelke.
The demands on a truck have to be brutal in Patagonia, how do you prepare for the inevitable?
First of all, for us the truck can’t be other than a Toyota Hilux. In our 20 years experience there hasn’t been anything else that survived such harsh terrain, driving on volcanic terrain, lots of dust, wading, plus the strong winds Patagonia is famous for...Simply trucks that make you feel secure when you get into the wild and far from civilization.
Our trucks usually need some improvements as stronger iron bumpers that increase the attack angle, good tires for mud and asphalt, and of course religiously followed maintenance. As safety equipment, all vehicles must have VHF radio and sat phones. We try not to leave anything to chance...we even designed and built our own rod holders for these conditions.
Now we’ve upgraded our trucks by installing the DECKED Drawer System and couldn’t be any happier with the results after a season of use and abuse.
How has the DECKED Drawer System changed how you organize your fishing trips?
The DECKED Drawer System has provided us a way to keep our everyday fishing items (rod tubes, waders and boots, backpacks, etc) in order and safe. Now carrying all that is not an issue any more, and clients have really appreciated it.
What’s the best advice you can give someone looking to get into fly fishing?
I’d encourage everyone who’s willing to try it into doing it, and even if it looks complex and difficult at the beginning, after the first step it all simplifies. Ask your local fly shop for advice on what you need and where to go. Before you realize, you’ll have some new friends to share your adventures with. After all, it’s not only about the fish you catch, it's about everything around it.
If someone wants to come fish with you, when is the best time?
From early November till the end of April we offer a wide range of programs, species and lodges that will adapt to any angler skill levels and needs in order to show them the best and most unique of south Patagonia.
Custom Land Cruisers were everywhere, including this fine example from the folks at Step 22 Gear.
Don't believe us about the Land Cruiser thing? See exhibit 2, from the emergency experts at Fieldcraft Survival.
We've got young dogs playing with the old ones. This new Ram TRX is begging to rip across the open desert at high speed.
What's better than a custom wrap on your sport truck? Matching livery on the dirtbikes in the bed.
As always, DECKED Drawer Systems were spotted all weekend long in every corner of the show. Here it's paired with a GoFast Camper for a practical, easy-to-use setup.
Super Overland custom-mounted a fridge slide onto their Drawer System. This places the fridge straight onto the tailgate for easy access to your ice-cold beverages.
This vintage Chevrolet looked so cherry, we'd be nervous to take it down the trail. This restomod dream showcases Trail Cap Camper Shells.
This classic Ford is older than about half of the event's attendees. It's aged like a fine wine and gained a lot of admirers.
There's no Overland Expo without sighting a few EarthRoamers, Unimogs and other massive expedition vehicles. This mobile monstrosity from Global Expedition Vehicles is perfect for your next multi-month stay in the Australian outback. The deck area works equally well for wildlife photography or rooftop raves -- you choose.
]]>So, does your rig have a nickname?
Bougie Burgundy
Do you use your vehicle for work, play, or both? Who drives this van?
Commuting, work, play, product development...it’s the village bicycle. Most of the senior staff gets some seat time in it to get opinions on ride quality and handling. It is one of our main marketing vans currently, so it’s designated as the "trade show" van, as well as all the R&D duties it also does.
What kinds of fun stuff do you get up to with your vehicle?
Camping and trade shows, family hauling, exploring. We’ve tested our full catalog on it.
How do you handle research & development and product testing?
As vehicles change periodically with mid-cycle updates, we have to keep new vans coming through to confirm changes and fitment. We also use product from some of our partners like Decked, Owl Vans, Milestar, Overland Van Project etc. Vans are a great blank canvas to start from, so we focus on our product line and work with our partners for the other solutions we need but don’t make.
What’s your approach to cargo management?
STOWED AND SECURED
Has DECKED changed the way you use your vehicle?
Absolutely. We can stow most of a trade show booth inside it, as well as lots of tools and travel/camp essentials easily. Keeping it organized, secured and out of sight is the best. I didn’t even un-pack most of the trade show booth materials last summer and just kept it in the van ready to go.
How has DECKED improved your adventures?
DECKED has added a ton of storage and versatility to the cargo hold of the van with a minimal amount of work. It probably took me longer to unpack everything than it did to assemble it. The quality and function is top-notch, the marketing literature is on-point. The nut bar really helped get me through the project too. We’ve absolutely hammered on this van over the last year and the DECKED hasn’t budged, and everything inside it ends up exactly how you left it.
2022 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 2500 4x4 Crew
Van Compass 6.3 2” suspension system
35x12.50 Milestar Patagucci tires
Custom mini-galley with upright fridge
Alpine Van Works overhead storage bags and rear door bags
Cascadia 4x4 vehicle solar system
Renogy 100ah lithium battery and DC-DC charge controller
PedalControl 2.0 throttle remap
Van Compass ditch light mounts
Van Compass on-board air system
Adventure Hammock Systems deployable hammock mount on the roof top veranda
Folding interior bed, queen size memory foam mattress
Baja Designs LP9 Pros, and Squadron Pros
and some fancy VanCompass prototype parts, if you know where to look...
]]>BENJI HILL: The Traditional Hunter and Minimalist
Professional pack guide, hunting guide and survival instructor, Benji Hill, is not your average hunter. He's a true minimalist and throw-back to a different era. His approach to life is one from which we can all take something away. His DECKED system is even done his way. We built his truck storage system out of spare parts and pieces we had at our shop as he was not interested in a new one, just something that would work and serve its purpose.
For Benji, hunting isn't just a hobby, it's a way of life. His family lives off the meat year round and he takes pride in not buying commercial meat. He finds the most enjoyment in limiting his technology, building his own gear and hunting with less gear for more reward.
Benji is a survival instruction and a wilderness pack goat adventure guide. But what he really is, is a hunter. Benji stopped working for money, because money doesn't truly make him happy. Benji's guiding principal is that he lives as simply as possible - being in the outdoors, cutting wood, gathering wild edibles, harvesting his own meat makes him happy. Money means almost nothing to Benji.
Benji lives on a small farm in Southern Idaho with his family and his heard of pack-goats. On a typical day when he isn't in the field, you will find Benji and his family walking their herd to keep the pack animals in shape, check out how they are moving and turn heads in the neighborhood.
"Working with pack-goats is challenging and rewarding all at the same time...the goats are super friendly, they cooperate when you run they correctly and you know their traits and they are like giant dogs, they love to be around you and please you."
As a semi-proficient hunter, it takes him roughly 30 days to harvest a big game animal with a bow. A full day is sun up to sun down - 10 hours a day, 30 days, 300 hours of actual field time to get harvestable meat.
"It was completely worth it for me to give up my financial security for my lifestyle. The freedom involved and getting to spend more time doing what I love is far more significant and important to me than the money."
___________
The DECKED SYSTEM gives you maximum use of your truck bed or cargo van.
The challenge of getting dialed starts with your vehicle. DECKED's full bed-length storage drawers give you the upper hand, because when the whistle blows, all your gear is organized in your truck bed ready to go.
We design our drawers to sit right above the wheel wells increasing your bed's surface area, leaving space to stack large items on top or use as a sleeping platform.
Check out DECKED for Applications here: THE HUNT
Select Your Vehicle]]>You've got a special rig, was this always your goal? Or did you just come across it? What's the story?
So the story is, I used to own a 2008 Chevy Silverado Duramax. I had a topper on the back with a fly rod carrier on the top, I'm a fishing outfitter and a real estate broker. I went to pick up a client, and I went to put his fly rods in my rod box, and it was missing from my truck. In broad daylight, somebody had taken a metal grinder and cut my rod box off. You can imagine the look on my face, probably pale as a ghost! Literally thought I was gonna puke.
I decided at that point that I wanted to have my fly rods stored inside the vehicle, harder to see for would-be robbers and harder to get to, all that kind of stuff. So I started my search for a Suburban.
Pre-COVID, when used vehicles were a dime a dozen, Suburbans just didn't hold their value. I was just like, "Man, I just don't want to buy something that's going to depreciate that fast." I've always had a soft spot for old vehicles, I've owned a '68 RS Camaro, a 1970 SS Chevelle. I've had some pretty cool cars over the years, right? I love the '67 to '72 Suburbans, I just think they're so cool. They made 'em with only three doors on them. Two on the passenger side and only one on the driver's side.
I searched for probably nine to ten months and found this one in Arizona. The guy that I bought it from, his nickname was One-Legged Lance, because he had one leg. He and his sons bought the Suburban from the original owner, who used it to haul equipment. They started the restoration and I finished it.
I flew down to Arizona and drove back to Montana. And one thing I found out along the way is that Arizona people don't care about heaters. The air conditioning worked very well, but the the heater did not. We got caught in a huge snowstorm in Idaho and Montana. My wife was in a sleeping bag and had to use the window scraper on the inside of the windows to be able to see. Pretty entertaining.
Do you have a name for it?
You know, my license plate says FUN HOG because I hog all the fun, but most people just call it the 'Burb.
What were your goals when you were building it out?
It had a 350 in it on a three speed transmission with an overdrive, but it's a pretty heavy vehicle. My goal originally was reliability, and hopefully a little bit more fuel efficient. The 350 only got nine miles to the gallon. And you know, when you fill up a 30 gallon tank at 9 mpg, it gets painful. Now I've got a 40 gallon tank and I get 14 miles to the gallon, so it's improved considerably. The power difference, I think that 350 was about 190 horse and the motor that I have in there is just over 400 now.
What did you put in? Is it an LS or is did you go a different direction?
It's got an LS, an L96 6.0 liter. My mechanic, Chris Cruz, and his team did an amazing job. There are some kits out there, but we had to modify to fit. They said the motor mounts were "plug-and-play," and they weren't. Lots of little things like that. The transfer case adapter had to be custom machined in Canada, and then it was sent to another shop in California. Of course, COVID hit, so everything took twice as long. They felt so bad about taking so long, because literally just that transfer case adapter held up the project, I would say at least four to five months.
They ended up putting in an extra set of planetary gears in that transfer case adapter. So now I've got an extra set of gears for low range. You can crawl up a tree if you want to! Because of that, they had to beef everything up with the frame, because there was so much twist from the torque. They designed this fantastic skid plate that protects the transmission and the transfer case. Made it out of really heavy steel and made it go all the way across, so that it really beefed up the frame. They welded in more metal in spots where it would be prone to twist. It's stout for sure!
Is there any component that people usually compliment first?
Just the look of the truck itself is what gets everybody's attention. It's rust free, it's in great shape. The second thing is when they when they hear it fire up. It's got a really nice kind of deep purr to it that says, "I'm not a Chevy 350." When you get on it, you can leave modern day vehicles in the dust. That never ceases to put a smile on your face.
What's your approach to cargo management?
I love my DECKED system. My wife and I do a ton of river camping with our dogs. My back seats fold down perfectly level with the fridge, I can slide 3/4" plywood over the top and it gives this huge raised platform for sleeping. We have two wiener dogs and a 100 lb Labrador. We can all sleep in there super comfortably. The ability to keep stuff safe and sound in the Drawer System is really nice.
It sounds like you use the vehicle for work and play then?
Yeah. Honestly, it's probably one of the best marketing tools that I've ever purchased in my life. People do not forget you when you when you pick them up in the 'Burb.
I have used it to skid logs. We had a huge wind event about two years ago, that blew down 140 trees. My twin brother and I used the Suburban to skid logs into big piles. Then we had a log truck driver come and get the logs and take them to the mill, that was pretty fun. I like to take it on roads that aren't quite so tight. I don't like when tree branches scrape down the side of my vehicle, I'm a little particular there. I do love crawling over stuff, I've got air lockers in the front so I can lock the front differential and then I got Posi in the rear end. So it pretty much will go anywhere.
I've got a big roof rack too, I've had inflatable rubber rafts up on top of the roof. I've got an awning system to gives you lots of good shade, protection from the rain.
One thing that One-Legged Lance and his kids did, it's got an onboard air compressor with a quick attach in the front bumper and the rear bumper, so I can just attach an air hose. More times than you'd think, people had a low tire or something at a boat ramp, it's pretty cool to be able to pull up to him and say "You need some air?" You definitely walk away with some hero status.
Everything has been pretty well thought out. Drink holders, USB ports for charging things, LED lights on the outside, air compressor, all the other miscellaneous things. I have a solar panel on the roof that keeps an additional battery charged at all times. You get off the river and you have ice cold beer, or if your old guys like a Manhattan or something, you've got all the makings for it in a refrigerator. You pull that out after a long day, make them a mixed drink. Again, hero status--that's pretty cool.
1970 Chevrolet Suburban
L96 6.0L LS motor
New transmission
New springs and 4" lift
New wheels, tires
New shocks
New dual exhaust
New transfer case adaptor with planetary gears for additional low-range power
Reinforced frame supports to handle extra torque
New WARN hubs
New brakes
New drivelines
New shifter - automatic and manual
Posi rear end
New 40 gallon fuel tank
New instrument cluster
]]>Scroll below for a visual feast of Mountain West.. and to feel the sharp pang of “adventure mobile” envy.
HINT: The Mountain West Show is just a taste of what’s to come later this month at Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, Arizona, September 24-26. We’ll be parked at booth #P53
GMC seized the opportunity to reveal its new concept truck, the GMC Canyon AT4 OVERLANDX. Designed to elevate the Canyon’s off-road credibility, the AT4 OVERLANDX shows how an enthusiast can perfectly build their Canyon to meet their needs. Links to GM’s Press Release Here.
Photo above copyright GMC | GMC.COM
The new GMC HUMMERev was fenced off for obvious protection from sticky fingers.
Our neighbors over at the Leitner booth showed off their new all-new ACS Tonneau, gear bags, and HydroPOD in their new Ford Tremor.
Replacement tailgate panels like those from Mountain Hatch give you a flat, practical working surface.
@cbioffroadfab | @cvttents | @hazzardfabworx | @cwwraps
Custom sink and a working stove by High Country Performance 4X4 | @smartcap | @arb | @cargoglid2e | @rhino-rach | @warn | @ikamper
The fine folks at Backwoods Adventure Mods took a break from the product lab to kiss some hands and shake some babies. That’s their new high-clearance, dual-swingout Tacoma bumper, and dang it looks good.
Come see us in Flagstaff, AZ for Overland Expo Mountain West Sept 24-26. This guy 👆 will definitely be there.
When you’re about to crawl into the attic and it’s 110 outside with 95% humidity, you’re darn right you want to be totally organized and have everything you need to get the job done.
In business for over 50 years and still running strong, Trouth Air Conditioning out of Sulphur, Louisiana are frequently the heroes in the heat of the muggy south. Their trucks are filled with fittings, tools, acetylene tanks and the like—you can tell they are in high demand for a variety of jobs.
Trouth has twelve trucks outfitted with DECKED, and as the owner, Rusty Trouth says: “I wasn’t too sure at first, but that’s what the guys wanted. Turns out it’s become an indispensable part of our vehicle program, we put them in every truck we buy. We love them.”
Check out trouthairconditioning.com
DECKED truck bed storage systems for work applications: DECKED.com/construction
]]>
So, does your rig have a nickname?
I've never been one to name my trucks, but according to my son Oliver I have "Daddy's Brown Truck" and "Daddy's White Truck." The Frontier is the brown truck.
Do you use your vehicle for work, play, or both?
The Frontier is my daily driver/commuter as well as the family adventure rig.
What kinds of fun stuff do you get up to with your vehicle?
We do a good amount of exploring in the Black Hills and camping as a family. I also use the truck to do some mild offroading, the Land Cruiser handles the hard stuff. I plan to do more hunting with the truck and DECKED setup this fall. I'll be using my Teardrops NW trailer as a basecamp for a few hunts and taking the truck out each morning.
What’s your approach to cargo management?
I've been through just about every approach under the sun when it comes to gear storage/cargo management. I've finally landed on what I think is the perfect setup. A full DECKED Drawer System allows me to have secure, dry storage of items I want to keep in my truck on a daily basis. The organization is awesome. Up top, a Fas-Top Solo soft topper.
This allows me to be able to still toss in random gear above the DECKED and not have to worry about strapping stuff down all the time. The soft topper keeps items that are loose from blowing away/out of the bed at highway speed and keeps everything not in the drawers dry. When I need to load something large, I'll just move the soft topper to the bulkhead of the truck and strap it down.
Has DECKED changed the way you use your vehicle?
DECKED has allowed me to organize items I keep with me at all times. Tools, ratchet straps, recovery gear, additional clothing items. All of these are now stored in my drawers and out of the way, but easily accessible if/when I need them.
How has DECKED improved your adventures?
The convenience factor of DECKED has been a game changer for me. Now that I'm not always taking an inventory of my gear and moving stuff around, I can just jump in the truck and go. I know everything I'll need is right behind me in my Drawer System.
Dobinsons IMS 3” suspension
Timbren active off-road bump stops front and rear
sPOD switch system and touch screen
Baja Designs 30” light bar
Baja Designs Squadron Pro ditch lights
CBI Offroad low profile front bumper
CBI Offroad full steel skids
CBI Offroad steel step sides
Smittybilt X20 Gen3 winch
RAM Tough-Track™ accessory system
Fas-Top Solo soft topper
Radar Renegade RT tires 295/70R17
DX4 Bronco wheels
Midland Radio - MXT400
So, does your rig have a nickname?
I call it "The Warhorse"- I've taken it from the coast of Long Island, NY, to the high desert of Utah, the mountains of Colorado, all the way to Johnson Valley, California and everywhere in between. Always gets me there, always loaded to the max, no matter the terrain.
Do you use your vehicle for work, play, or both?
It was my daily vehicle for a while, but now it's mostly play, camp, explore. I work as a personal trainer so I also use the Jeep to haul around fitness equipment for when I train clients at their homes. I usually have a kettlebell or two stashed in the drawers for on-the-go training sessions. It's my way of staying fit on longer trips that keep me away from my gym.
What kinds of fun stuff do you get up to with your vehicle?
Road trips, camping, offroading. I love cross-country roadtrips in this Jeep and exploring backcountry routes. I have built it into a bit of a "Rocklander"...I want to be able to camp and travel in comfort but also hit some harder trails.
What’s your approach to cargo management?
My motto is: "It's better to have it and not need it, than need it and NOT have it"...therefore, cargo management is an important step in trip-prep. The DECKED system gets split into a recovery/tool side & a camp kitchen/comfort-stuff side. The interior of the Jeep gets clothing & bedding packed under the bench seat. Pack every size socket, charge every accessory, don't forget the hot sauce.
Has DECKED changed the way you use your vehicle?
Yes, DECKED has completely changed how I use the bed of my vehicle.
The Drawer System is the most-used addition to the Jeep. Before it, I would have at least 3-4 large camping totes in the bed filled with everything from my tools/recovery gear to my camp kitchen. It was a game of extreme Tetris trying to get things in and out of the boxes.
After install, I did not miss the depth or height of the bed, because it had never been used--I always had a bedrack & RTT. It actually made my bed more spacious because everything is in its place and locked away.
How has DECKED improved your adventures?
Because of the Drawer System, my gear stays dry, clean and ready to go at any time. It's like being packed and ready for a trip at all times. After every camping trip, I'll replenish the drawers, go over the tools and reorganize.
Superlift - 4" Suspension
Yukon Gear & Axle - 5.13 Gearing, Chromoly Axle Shafts, Diff Covers
ARB - Air Compressor & Locker
BFGoodrich - KM3 MT 37x12.5x17
DECKED - Drawer System
Black Rhino Wheels - 17" Abrams
Road Armor - Front & Rear Bumpers
Road Armor - Fender Flares
Road Armor - Bed Rack
Road Armor - 12k LB Winch
4x4Colorado - 'Nimbus' RTT
Dometic - CFX45
Baja Designs - Squadron Sport
Oracle - Taillights
Quake LED - Halo Headlights
D&C Designs - Cowl ditch lights w/ integrated blinker
Quadratec - Stealth Interior Light Bar
DIY Rack Mounted Storage Box - RIDGID Toolbox from Home Depot
Jackery - PowerStation / Solar Generator + 100W Solar Panel
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Travis Warren and I live in Reno, NV with my wife and two girls. When I'm not spending time at work or with the family, I'm out in the desert chasing chukar with my two dogs. In the off season I train my dogs and work on my podcast - The Upchukar Podcast.
How and why did you get into chukar hunting?
I ventured into chukar hunting through both a friend and my father-in-law. Both had similar influences on my beginnings, but it wasn’t until I was introduced to bird dogs through my friend Jay that I became fully involved. I spend a lot of my hunting time solo, just me and my dogs. Funny, I never feel alone when it’s just me and the dogs, and I find these times a centering part of my life.
Do you do any other types of hunting?
Most notably I spend a large portion of the month of September hunting Himalayan Snowcock in the mountains of Nevada. I also recently discovered turkey hunting, which is pretty damn addicting.
What is it about chukar hunting specifically that you enjoy?
I enjoy how physically tough it is. It forces me to focus on what I’m doing and to stay engaged with my dogs and my surroundings. It’s simplistic in that sense and there are no distractions.
The demands on a truck have to be brutal, how do you prepare for the inevitable?
I’m no stranger to breaking down in the middle of the Nevada desert. Thankfully, I keep my truck well-stocked with recovery gear, food/water and survival gear to last for a few days. I also leave a hunt plan with my wife and use a satellite communicator so I can contact home if I'm in trouble.
How has the DECKED Drawer System changed how you hunt?
I used to store all my tools, recovery gear and survival stuff in those black & yellow Costco totes. They worked well, but made it difficult to pull from the front of the bed, especially the one housing tire chains for all 4 tires, jack and tools. With the DECKED system I maintain an organized truck bed, where everything is easily accessible and I can secure it safely.
What’s your go-to DECKED accessory?
I use the D-Bag a lot. Both for the Drawer System to pack clothes on trips, but also as a carry-on for flights. Perfect size for someone who packs light, or needs a bag for a weekend trip.
What’s the best advice you can give someone looking to get into chukar hunting?
It's most enjoyable if you can maintain a base level of fitness, especially cardio. It also makes it a whole lot safer to be out there. Apart from that, listen to the Upchukar podcast: it’s a great place to develop knowledge for both new and seasoned hunters alike.
How can people follow along with your adventures?
Check out the Upchukar podcast on your favorite podcast app, visit Upchukar.com on the web and follow along on Instagram.
More from Travis: 5 Ways to Die in Chukar Country
What were your goals when building the vehicle?
The theme, so to speak, is "Made in America." I tried to use as many products that were made in the US as I could. After COVID we all realized that the vast majority of overlanding products came from China, many companies were out of stock for a year, some even two. It made me really appreciate that DECKED was in stock, ready to go throughout COVID, all while paying their workers a living wage. This really made me appreciate products that are made in the US, so along with DECKED, I went with AEV Conversions and GFC USA as the main pieces of the puzzle. 'Merica baby!
Do you use your vehicle for work, play, or both?
It's my daily driver but it has been purpose-built to be my live-aboard hunting rig.
What kinds of fun stuff do you get up to with your vehicle?
I'm not an "overlander" but I regularly take the truck offroad into the backcountry on hunting trips for days at a time. This is why I went with the PowerWagon over a diesel, I really wanted the lockers and sway bar disconnect to help ensure that I'm never stranded in the middle of nowhere. Plus that Hemi sounds sooo nice, especially when coupled with the Magnaflow exhaust!
I have a week's worth of food, recovery gear, onboard power, a Dometic fridge with an icemaker, and an air compressor so it's ready for just about anything you throw at it. When it's not hunting season it becomes a work vehicle on the farm as well as a grocery getter.
What are some notable modifications?
One of my favorite mods is a simple one, it's an ARB compressor mounted under the hood. The days of looking for a gas station with a working air compressor are over, now I can air down and up without any worries. It also works great for blowing dust off of my camera gear.
I also recently added the GFC platform camper, another made-in-America piece of goodness. I keep my sleeping bag and pillow in there 24/7 and I can deploy the tent in seconds, which is especially helpful when I need to pull over for a quick nap on long drives.
What’s your approach to cargo management?
I like to have everything ready to go at a moment's notice but also the ability to have a modular system to be able to switch between activities without taking up precious time. Having my gear secure and protected from the elements is also top priority for me.
Another thing I have which is often overlooked is "dog storage." I use Gunner Kennels to contain my dogs while on hunting trips. They are crash tested and having them makes me feel better knowing that they will be safer in the event of a rollover.
Has DECKED changed the way you use your vehicle?
Absolutely, the truck is ready to go all the time! All my hunting gear is ready as well as a week's worth of food, camp kitchen equipment and recovery gear, so I never have to think about packing before a trip. I grab my clothes and I'm off. Having the Piecekeepers in there keeps my firearms safe and secure.
How has DECKED improved your adventures?
The DECKED Drawer System gives me more time in the field doing stuff I love. Without it that time would otherwise be spent organizing gear, cleaning off dust, drying off water. It also gives me the peace of mind knowing that everything is locked away in the drawers, behind a locked tailgate, always secure even at the sketchiest of roadside motels.
List of aftermarket parts/modifications
AEV Conversions - 3" Dualsport XP Suspension
AEV Conversions - 17" Katla Wheels
AEV Conversions - Front bumper
AEV Conversions - Rear bumper
AEV Conversions - Differential guards
AEV Conversions - Snorkel
AEV Conversions - Mud flaps
Lightforce - HTX2 hybrid driving light
NH Overland - Molle Panels
BajaDesigns - Squadron Pros
Magnaflow - Pro Series Catback exhaust
DECKED - Drawer System
General Tire - 37" Grabber
GoFast Campers - Platform Camper
Dometic - CFX 55IM
Factor 55 - Flatlink
ARB - Dual air compressor
Switchpros - SP9100 Switch panel
CJC Offroad - Switchpros mount
We can find something to appreciate on nearly any truck build, but it takes something special to get featured as a DECKED Build Of The Month. Here are some of our favorite recent truck and van builds from friends, family, and fellow employees.
FORD
Becker Family Adventures - Ford Raptor
Lucas O'Hara, ex-sniper and knifemaker - Ford F150
Wes Siler, 4x4 journalist - Ford Ranger
First Lite hunting apparel - Ford F150
Tornado Watch, tornado chase truck - Ford F250
CHEVROLET/GMC
Carlos Inciarte - Chevy Silverado
Fun Hog - restomod 1970 Suburban
TOYOTA
DECKED - Tundra Overland
Smitty- "Lunartik" Tundra
Jordan Lanning - Gen 1 Tacoma
Jake Ingolia - "WanderTaco" Tacoma
Jarred MacLachlan - "Dusty Gringo" Land Cruiser FJ70
Tim Muniz - 2022 SEMA Tacoma
RAM
Chivas Sotelho - "Pee Wee" Ram Power Wagon
Ed Shin - "Shadow 2.0" Ram Rebel
Matt H., hunter/fly fisherman/photographer - 2022 Power Wagon
Jeep
Offroad Fitness, overlanding and personal training - 2020 Jeep Gladiator
VANS
Sergei Boutenko - Sprinter
Cardiff Snowcraft - Ford Transit XLT
]]>Tim Muniz w/ the Rockstar Garage took his Tundra straight off the lot and turned it into a real Vegas off-road showstopper. Build details and a SEMA 2022 recap.
]]>Tim Muniz w/ The Rockstar Garage took his Tundra straight off the lot and turned it into a Vegas showstopper. His ridiculously awesome and capable off-road vehicle stuck out in a sea of impractical lift kits and 50" rims. And we had it all to ourselves (to share with 130,000 people) last week.
With help from CW Wraps, Icon Vehicle Dynamics, Leitner Designs, CBI, and many more, this Tundra is pissed! Keep scrolling for all mods, links, video walkthrough, and more...
Tim lent us his good looks and his daily driver for our DECKED Booth, SEMA 2022, so he gets our Build of the Month. 🔥
Hazzard Fab Worx - Build / Mods
ICON Vehicle Dynamics - Stage 10 Suspension
Leitner Designs - ACS Forged cargo rack
Mountain Hatch - Tailgate
Tuff Stuff Overland - Rooftop tent
RiG'd Supply - Tire Carrier
Mickey Thompson Tires - 37" Baja Boss
Mayhem Wheels - 8305 Compass wheels
Dmos - Stealth Shovel
CBI Offroad - Rock sliders, Skids
CBI Offroad - Covert Bumper
Prinsu - Cab Rack
Warn Industries - Winch
CW Wraps - Vinyl Wrap Matte PPF
Tim giving Jake Paul the rundown. PHOTO: @therockstargarage
DECKED products shown: Drawer System, Traction Mat, DECKED x Uncharted D-Bag Emergency Kit, DECKED x Pathfinder Survival Kit
Built to crawl, the ROKBUGY w/ The Rockstar Garage.
FORD's Black Ops OEM build. You can actually order one like this from your Ford dealer. Features a custom DECKED Traction Mat.
]]>First Lite entrusted the 4x4 pros at Stage 3 Motorsports with the build. They drew up a list of accessories and upgrades that would improve performance and got to work. See full build details here.
This F-150 XLT came off the line as a practical pickup truck but still had untapped potential. First Lite knew this truck had to be something of a Swiss army knife, as it's a company vehicle that gets used in a variety of scenarios. It had to be capable on frequent hunting trips, but also cover extended highway miles and handle towing duty, including a custom whitetail hunting trailer.
The first thing Stage 3 tackled was the suspension. For the front, they sourced Bilstein 8112 coilovers, which improve offroad performance while remaining civilized on the road.
For the rear, they installed Bilstein 1800 rear shocks and SumoSprings bumpstops for improved behavior while towing. The result is a mild lift (between 1.5" and 2") that retains proper rake and doesn't compromise handling.
Next up was front-end protection. Collisions with other vehicles, roadside hazards and even startled game animals is a real possibility when dedicating so much time to hunting. The Midnight bumper from Ranch Hand combines a steel bumper with a full grille guard in one integrated unit, and its rugged construction will protect the truck and passengers in the event of a front-end collision.
The bumper/grille guard is optimized for OEM light placements. It also offers slots for sensors, cameras, and additional lighting, so the First Lite team can customize as they see fit.
No hunting rig is complete without additional illumination. Stage 3 opted for a pair of Rigid Industries' 4" lights. These can be flicked on when cruising back roads and used to spotlight game or find an overgrown turnout.
While they were at it, Stage 3 replaced the standard F-150 XLT headlights with a slightly different version from the XLT Special Edition. "It just cleans up the look a little bit, adds that dark gray metallic bezel on the inside, and blends more cleanly with the grill."
First Lite made sure their truck got some new shoes. They downsized from the stock 18" wheels to a 17" set from KMC. These were wrapped in Falken Wildpeak A/T tires. The result is more sidewall for aggressive offroad driving, but no unnecessary noise or feedback issues on the highway.
First Lite opted for a Go Fast Camper, as it provides a lightning-fast but hassle-free shelter solution. The DECKED Drawer System provides secure, weatherproof storage and doesn't interfere with their ability to carry several tags' worth of harvested animals at a time.
The finishing touches are some Husky floormats to keep the interior clean, a custom wrap with First Lite branding, and "plenty of blood stains from wild game."
Full list of detailed modifications can be found on Stage 3 Motorsports site here
Front Suspension - Bilstein 8112 front coilovers
Rear Suspension - Bilstein 8100 rear shocks & 1000lb Sumo Bump Stops
Wheels - 17" KMC Chase wheels
Tires - 34” Falken Wildpeak A/T tires
Front Bumper - Ranch Hand Midnight bumper and grill guard combo
Headlights - XLT special edition headlights
Lighting - Rigid 360 series 4" round LED lights
DECKED Drawer System
Husky Liner floor mats
Go Fast Campers Platform Camper
Custom First Lite wrap
Plenty of blood stains from wild game
Take some inspiration from this purpose-driven build, and share your own hunting rigs with us on social media using #deckedusa and #unsuckyourtruck. Special thanks to the First Lite team for sharing their truck with us. Keep your eyes peeled and we'll see you on the road!
]]>DECKED Ambassador Lucas O'Hara ( @Grizzly_Forge) has built quite a following through creating one-of-a kind survival and bushcraft knives. His completely custom blades sell out in minutes and have ended up in the hands of Nate Diaz, Cristian Craighead, and Joe Rogan. We sat with Lucas to learn more about how he got his start in his craft, how he balances his work life with his family life, and how he uses his truck Kodiak to be the best dad possible.
He grew up in Atlanta, homeschooled and sheltered with his five other siblings. His height earned him a lot of unwanted attention: “I was messed with a lot as a kid. People always want to mess with the tall guy,” he recalls. “I think that’s why I wanted to join the Army... because messing with people is all the Army does.”
He knew all he wanted to do in the Army was become a sniper. He had a rough start...it turns out the Army doesn't take kindly to 6'7" recruits arriving to Basic Training 20 lbs under the minimum weight requirement. But he was determined, and the Army was, too.
At Basic, the Army gave him a new diet: “I was instructed to eat as much as I could in thirty minutes,” Luke remembers. “For the first half-hour of PT, I was eating while the rest of the platoon was getting their asses kicked.” Lucas explained. He ate had to eat as much cheeseburgers and ice cream as possible to gain 20 pounds in six days while still training alongside fellow recruits. He vomited a lot, but he eventually gained enough weight to satisfy the requirements and graduated alongside his platoon. He pushed through the Sniper Course at Fort Benning, and deployed multiple times to Iraq and Africa.
He retired from the Army in 2013, but still gravitated towards the regimented nature of the military, so he spent two more years working as a contractor: "I liked being told where to go and what to do. Meals are taken care of, housing is taken care of. Everything just makes sense."
While contracting paid the bills and kept him grounded in the military world he needed, he eventually got out and wondered what to do next. He attended a blacksmithing class, was given a railroad spike, and told to get to work on making a knife. As always, he followed his orders, and fell in love with it.
For Lucas, making knives focuses his energy in a similar way as combat did. He works with extremely high temperatures, sharp blades, and heavy hammers, so staying disciplined and concentrating proves vital to avoid danger.
He specializes in bushcraft knives; large, tough blades that can be used for almost anything. From skinning an animal to splitting kindling, it's no exaggeration that a well-made knife could save lives in the outdoors. Lucas crafts them to survive a lifetime of abuse using high carbon steel, heat treating, and robust thicknesses to handle whatever heads their way.
Lucas likes to experiment with his creations. He's made dozens of knife shapes, tomahawks, cleavers, and bottle openers. His handles come from all types of hardwoods, resins, and antlers, and he learns something from every knife that takes shape on his anvil: “Even a master of his trade still has something to learn. The willingness to learn is what makes him a master.” He carries this mentality into every aspect of his life. Whether it's his knife making, being a father, a bowhunter, or just a man trying to find his way through a crazy world.
Since he works long hours away from his family, he takes every available opportunity to spend time with them outdoors and away from cell phones, tablets, or tv screens. His truck, Kodiak, is completely built out to facilitate getting away and unplugging from people and cell service, which is why we're highlighting it as our September Build of the Month.
Can you tell us about Kodiak? What's its purpose?
My rig gets me and my family as far away from people-- and cell service-- as possible. I work ridiculous hours during the week, so when I get to spend time with my wife and kids, I want to be 100% involved. No cell phones, no screens, Kodiak gives me the opportunity to get away and focus on what's important in your life.
What aftermarket additions have you added to Kodiak that you can't live without?
It sounds obvious, but my DECKED Drawer System. It was the first thing I purchased for my truck when I got it four years ago. When I'm camping with the family, organization is key, and it helps keep everything stored and safe.
Speaking of organization, how do you keep your gear organized in your rig?
A lot of this probably carries over from my military days, but organization is a big part of my life when it comes to overlanding... Especially medical and recovery gear. I keep all those things separate from the other standard camping equipment in my drawer system. Traveling with small children, especially over long distances and without cell service, means you need to know exactly where everything is in your rig so you can get to it fast in an emergency.
What else is in your drawers?
That changes daily. Camping gear. Rifles and ammo. Archery and hunting equipment. If I’m headed to work, I store my blacksmithing tools. It depends what I’m up to.
What mods or details are you most proud of?
I did a modification on my DECKED system and installed my ARB directly in one of the ammo cans. I can plug directly into the deck for on-board air.
How has DECKED changed the way you use your rig?
There’s huge value in being able to just grab gear, neatly arrange it in the Drawer System, and hit the road. I honestly have about 20 D-Boxes in my garage already packed and ready to go.
If you won the lottery, what would you add to your rig next?
I’ve already won the lottery in life, and I’m living exactly how I want to. I saved for a really long time to build my truck and it’s exactly how I want it. Maybe check back with me in a few years.
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Every Overland Expo raises the ante with the custom builds, modifications, and products that continue to make getting outdoors easier and more comfortable. Here are some of our favorites from Loveland that stood out as the most functional, tricked out, or just plain cool.
This Ford F150 is driven by Davis James, Danver Marketing Community Lead for Orvis. Not only does he have potentially the coolest job ever of getting paid to fish all over the West, he gets to ride around in this thing.
The DECKED Drawer System carries a full fly shop of rods, reels, and gear bags on his trips to the river. The Orvis Carry-It-All rod quiver lays flat in the drawers and locks to keep everything out of sight.
He also has a rack from our friends over at Leitner Designs to keep his waders, boots, and extra gear secure, but accessible at a moment's notice. The other side of the rack has their HydroPOD kit, perfect for backcountry showers and rinsing mud off gear.
The Classic Minimalist: massively modified vehicles typically dominate Overland Expo, so this Jeep Wagoneer immediately grabbed our attention. A winch, tires, and wheel upgrades are all it needed. Smells like leaded gasoline and trips to the lake back in the '80s.
Sometimes the vehicles at the show are just plain cool. This Porsche Cayenne project build belongs to Berg Performance, a Denver shop specializing in tuning German roadsters.
33" Goodyear MTRs, a PRG lift kit, cargo rack, and custom bumpers and skid plates made this one capable Cayenne that we'd love to rally up Pike's Peak.
Kuhl's custom built "Kuhl Mule" is a 1996 Stewart and Stevenson M1078 Rally truck. The massive side panels open for incredible views from the interior, plus it even comes with a mountain goat decal. Bonus points for the sunglasses and massive adjustable rooftop solar panel.
While this Taco doesn't have a crazy custom wrap, it takes first in class for functionality. The Super Pacific camper is one of the most sought after in the biz for their durability and usability in any weather conditions.
Panels that open for bed access with additional customizable storage elevate it another degree. A DECKED Drawer System is the icing on the cake for secure and weatherproof packability.
Plus, whoever owns it has a sense of humor and a knack for little details that can easily be overlooked.
Bilstein's Unimog 416 turned a lot of heads. It boasts 114" of wheelbase, epic ground clearance, a roof rack, and a bed to carry tons of cargo over whatever is in front of it. We especially liked the crew cab to bring plenty of friends to the camping spot, but you might need your climbing gear to get in it.
Signatures from Alaska, Florida, New Mexico, and South Africa illustrate the draw that Overland Expo's events have for the community.
As always, our stickers and patches were a massive success. While they aren't for sale, stop by our booth October 7-9th at the last Expo event of the year in Arrington, Virginia to get your own!
There are also lots of parts out there to trick out your truck and help you get the most out of your new Dodge classic or Ram Rebel.
List of Top Dodge Ram Truck Accessories
DECKED drawers are designed to sit right above your wheel wells, giving you secure storage in your truck bed while still allowing you to haul up to 2000lb of cargo on top. Dramatically increasing the available surface area of your truck bed, the full-bed length drawers roll out easily to reveal your tools and gear organized and safe, meaning you never have to crawl, reach or jump into your truck bed again.
The DECKED Drawer System is manufactured from a galvanized steel frame in-moulded to a High Density Polyethylene skin. This industrial grade HDPE is weather resistant, and can withstand extreme temperatures and chemicals. Our cargo carrier system is weatherproof and dust resistant. DECKED has an unmatched industry standard strength-to-weight ratio of 10:1 and was made with adventure in mind.
One of the best parts about the DECKED system is that it simply attaches to your truck bed tie downs, meaning that for most vehicles no drilling is required. Removal and reinstallation only takes a matter of minutes, and the drawer systems are shipped free right to your door.
We can fit all kinds of Dodge Ram truck models. Whether you’re driving a popular Dodge Ram 1500 or a 2500 Big Horn, we have a system to fit your needs.
We also make a range of truck accessories and tool boxes designed to fit perfectly inside all sizes of the Drawer System, maximizing drawer storage efficiency and organization. DECKED D-box comes in two sizes and two colors, meaning you can choose the best fit for you.
A tonneau cover is a great addition to your truck. It is essential to protect your items from rain, snow, hail and debris. Many tonneau covers feature locking systems to help protect against harsh conditions as well as thieves. Whether you choose a roll-up, tri-fold, or painted style, a good tonneau cover can really add to your pickup truck’s look - giving it a sleek and aggressive edge, helping it to stand out from the crowd.
As bed accessories go, bed liners are one of your best investments to keep your truck in great condition. Keep your Ram’s truck bed protected from minor damage and scuffs with a bed liner/bed mat. For complete protection, choose a bed cover made for your truck bed, resulting in total surface protection from spills, dirt and heavy cargo.
Benefits of a bed liner:
If you don’t have a tonneau cover, stretching a cargo net across the bed can keep your stuff where it should be - inside your truck. It's easier and more secure than trying to tie everything down. We’ve all seen THAT truck on the highway, careening from lane to lane with a pile of boxes or a shifting load of pipes.
Benefits of a cargo net:
Bed rails are a fantastic way to add extra bold styling as well as extra protection to the top of your Dodge Ram bed. They not only look great, but are functional too! They can also act perfectly as additional tie-down points for securing bulky cargo in your truck bed.
Benefits of a bed rails:
There are a range of truck bed storage dividers available to help maximize the efficiency and organization of your Ram. To step this up a level, DECKED have engineered dividers which fit perfectly inside the Drawer System, upping your efficiency and organization even further.
Keep your floors in pristine condition with a floor mat to prevent dirt and spills ruining your Ram’s floors. Floor mats come in a range of materials which can increase protection and help keep your truck looking great. For added protection, consider floor mats with spill saver lips, which help confine dirt and spills to a single area, minimizing floor mess and making clean-up easier and faster.
Yep, you can get a nice steering wheel cover. But if you really want to feel the road and make your ride stand out, consider a wood or racing style steering wheel.
Available in a range of colors and designs, seat covers are a great way to keep your truck clean and tidy while also giving it a fresh look. Many options come with storage pockets which are ideal for reducing clutter and keeping your truck neat and organized.
Keeping your truck organized and free from clutter is important to help your truck reach its full potential. With this in mind, underseat storage boxes are great for keeping those random bits and pieces that pile up in your crew cab out of sight.
Upgrade your center console with added storage and functionality to increase comfort, style and efficiency. Consider a console with added cup holders for longer trips, and use it as a place to store smaller items like keys or your cell phone.
Make your Dodge Ram even more accessible and attractive with a good set of running boards. A good set of side step nerf bars will allow for easy entry in and out of your truck, while also providing protection against any nicks or dents along the way.
For a truly impressive solution, consider motorized running boards like the PowerStep from Amp Research. They automatically extend when the door is open and fold against the rocker panel when you close the door. They’re a little pricey, but very cool.
If you’re looking to turn heads with your Ram truck and stand out from the crowd, consider investing in a grille guard insert. Available in a huge range of styles, there’s something for everyone to make their mark. As well as adding to the look of your truck, a grille insert serves as great protection for your truck against debris, making it ideal for off-road vehicles.
Protect your hood with a front air deflector designed to look great and keep road debris, dirt and insects off your hood and windshield. Mopar offers chrome and matte black options. We’re a little partial to chrome.
Fender flares protect your side panels from all that crusty dirt and mud your wheels throw up, and they come in a variety of stylish looks. Get them painted to match your truck or a contrast color for a sportier look.
A roof rack is the ideal solution for those looking to extend the storage space in their truck. A roof rack can create additional security to carry your essential off-road cargo without sacrificing interior space. A rack anchored in your truck bed can secure canoes, surfboards, or other stuff too long for your truck bed.
LED lighting gives your truck a distinctive glow. Use underglow lights to let everybody know you’re coming, or opt for a high-voltage led light bar to light up dark nights in the woods beyond the end of the pavement or install a third brake light kit to improve safety.
Mud flaps are a fantastic addition for any vehicle, especially your hard-working Ram truck. Splash guards are inexpensive but highly effective, saving you time and money in the future. They help to keep your vehicle in good condition. It’s a hassle-free way of keeping your truck clean and looking its best no matter the weather, be it snowy, rainy, or dry.
If you need to carry ATVs, lawnmowers, dirt bikes, or other small vehicles or equipment, you’ll need a lightweight aluminum ramp with a rubberized non-slip tailgate protector to load up.
Look, you’ve got a lot of truck, and you’re going to want to hitch it to something sooner or later. Whether you’re more interested in towing a boat, a camper, or a trailer full of equipment, you’re going to need a sturdy tow hitch.
Suspension lift kits are performance parts to give your Ram truck a more dynamic stance, raising it up for optimized driving. It also allows for bigger tires to really give your Ram truck an edge.
Sometimes you just have to pull a buddy out of the mud or fell a tree. It’s a fact of life for truck owners. A winch is an invaluable tool for hard-working people.
A throttle booster makes a great addition to your vehicle, allowing for an improved throttle response and increasing your ability to increase acceleration at a much faster rate. This can really improve driving quality and step up the performance of your truck.
Installing a tuner to further enhance the performance of your Ram truck is a fantastic way of drastically improving your vehicle. A good tuner can really unlock the full power potential of your vehicle.
]]>There are three things that will survive a Nuclear Fallout, Zombie Apocalypse, Electromagnetic Pulse, or an Alien Invasion. Twinkies, Cockroaches, and Toyota Trucks.
]]>Toyotas, designed in Japan, and built all over the world are notorious for having the ability to run you into the ground before you run it into the ground. The person behind the screen, writing this article had a 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser for his first car and drove it harder than his parents should ever know about and unfortunately sold it last summer for $5,000 with 285,000 miles. That’s 95 times across the United States, roughly 4000 hours or 166 days of driving time. In the grand scheme of real Toyotas, sorry Prius, 285,000 miles isn’t even that wild. Check the used car market, there are Land Cruisers and other Toyota Trucks with tons of miles selling for some serious $$$.
Okay, enough blabbing, let’s get down to it. Toyota Trucks are bulletproof. Unfortunately, I couldn’t track down a Hilux to feature in this piece, but check out Youtuber Whistlin’ Diesel and his 4-episode series on how “indestructible” the Hilux can be in a variety of scenarios. (SPOILER: very indestructible, but that man eventually put it through a ringer that no mechanical thing could ever survive.)
Whistlin' Diesel Hilux Durability Test
So, DECKED customers are suckers for Tacomas, especially those owners that like to get off road. And you are straight up wrong if you don’t have a soft spot for siiiick Tacomas. There are some pretty sweet modifications from a wild variety of aftermarket manufacturers to help you dial your Tacoma build up to 11.
We reached out to Scott (@tacomamountain_ut), an A1 DECKED customer with a legit Toyota Tacoma build to hear about some of his upgrades. He cracked us up when he wrote he had too many modifications to list and asked if he could just pick a few of his favorites, which ended up being the suspension, armor, and storage capacities.
Here are Scott's favorite modifications:
“The DECKED system has helped a ton having the items I use the most close and easy to access. Always hated items rolling around in the bed and now I have them secured. The locking and weatherproof draws makes this system rad!”
The Tacoma is great, it’s small and can get you in hard to fit places, whether you’re in the backwoods of South Carolina, Moab, or northern California. Because the Tacoma is on the smaller end of trucks and doesn’t have storage space that a larger truck might have, the DECKED Drawer System provides a very efficient solution.
Not much on this Tacoma went untouched, it’s badass if we do say so ourselves. The factory build quality on Toyota trucks sets them up well for off-roading and the modifications that Scott added are equivalent to pouring gasoline on a fire.
Bigger than the Tacoma, packing the i-Force 5.7L V8, the Toyota Tundra can put in some WORK. The Tundra, especially in the Off-Road and TRD Pro guises, is extremely off-road capable from the factory. The Tundra has an optional 38 gallon fuel tank, an accessory that could come into play big time if you’re looking to get way off the grid. With an available 10,200lb towing capacity and a 1,730lb payload, the Tundra has plenty of space for your toys. (Fun fact: DECKED’s payload capacity is greater than the Tundra).
In many scenarios, most people wouldn’t even need to modify these trucks. But, if you’re looking to stand out on the street and boost the usability of your rig on the road less traveled, there are some modifications that can be made.
If you don’t know how these writeups go, this is the part where we introduce a DECKED customer who does a great job of dialing up their truck build. This time around we reached out to Brandon, a guy with a seriously legit Tundra. If you want to see more content on his ever developing truck check his ‘gram (@moonlander_pro).
We slid into his DMs and he let us know how to do a Tundra right:
“I started my build off with the Leitner ACS rack. The reason I got that first is, because I used to drive a 4Runner and I already had my CVT tents. Directly afterwards I got the DECKED System because I knew that was going to be so helpful! It is easily the most helpful, thought-out design that I added to my truck. Love it! Then I added some rock sliders by CaliRaised because I got out on some rugged adventures with my boys. I also went with their ditch lights, so I can see a little bit better on and off the trails. Needed some chase lights so I added some Rigid 3” cubes to the rear.”
People, you heard it here, and you’ll hear it again, when it comes to truck modifications, more is not always better.
That is DECKED in a nutshell: you get one piece of equipment that can just about do it all. Yeah, it’s just two drawers that go in the back of your truck, but YES you can fit your camping gear in it, YES you can organize your work tools, YES you can park your snowmobile and ATV on top of the system, and YES you can ice down some beers in the drawers for your tailgate. Simple but mighty.
“Short and sweet. I chose the Tundra over all the other trucks on the market, because they simply make the best trucks from the Sequoia all the way to the Taco! Fact!”
Folks, we’ve reached the end of a great era in the United States, the era of the Land Cruiser. Toyota will no longer be selling the SUV that many revered as indestructible and the ultimate off-road family hauler. A sad day for sure, but that means we must start getting creative. In order to stand out from the moms and 75-year-old men wearing khakis at the golf course is to import a Land Cruiser 70 Series truck. Woah.
While importing a vehicle Is not a walk in the park, Huckberry's guide can set you in the right direction. If, somehow, someway, you ARE able to get a 70 series Land Cruiser truck in the US of A, we have a list of modifications for you to really dial in the most badass, durable, unique truck out there. We reached out to DECKED customer, Jarred (@the_dusty_gringo , @junglecruiser) to see how he turned his Land Cruiser up to 11.
“I live in Escamequita, Nicaragua. The roads are mostly dirt/gravel and there are also a number of beaches hidden in the jungle that are only accessed via jungle tracks or on foot or horseback. I also spend a lot of time on these remote beaches cleaning up trash that has been deposited by the ocean and also to explore the coastline. The surf on the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua is world class, so it's great to find hidden waves surrounded by only jungle.”
A lot of people in the United States overland for fun and on the weekends, but from what it sounds like, Jarred is overlands on his everyday commute. These are the modifications he has added to his Land Cruiser 70 Series Truck to make his life easier:
Suspension - Old Man Emu Nitrocharger Sport including 2inch lift
Tires: Kumho MT71 Mud Terrain 315/75R16
Tire Carrier: RIGd Ultraswing Multi Fit
Bed Rack: Uptop Overland (Toyota Tacoma Full Height)
Bed Rack Storage: 2x Roam 95L Rugged Case
Water Storage: 2x Scepter 5 Gallon Military Water Cans
Shower: Innhom Portable Outdoor Shower
Recovery Jack: Hi Lift PJ Harrah Signature Edition
Rear Lighting: KC Hilites 2 inch C Series
Roof Rack: ARB Base Rack
Roof Rack Lighting: ARB Base Rack Light Bar
Front Bumper: Original Toyota Bumper with added ARB LX470 Sahara Tube
Winch: OEM Toyota
Spotlights: OK4WD IPF900XS Driving Lights
Air Compressor: ARB
Awning: Roam 5' awning
Bed Storage: DECKED (Toyota Tacoma 2013) with CoreTrax
“The DECKED System allowed me to have locked storage as well as to have the ability to carry heavy items on top. The drawers do a great job in keeping out dust kicked up from the dirt roads as well as the heavy downpours of rain that we get during the rainy season. I have a D-Box and a Crossbox in one drawer and this helps to organise my tools. At the moment my Drawerganizer is full of Guanacaste tree seeds that my daughters collected which will be planted along the river on my property. My other drawer is used for a beach umbrella, machete and recovery gear but it could equally be used to store gear for a wing foil mission to the Caribbean Coast!”
It seems like Nicaragua is the place where DECKED should do some future product testing. Sounds like Jarred gets hit with about everything except snow. It makes us proud to know that our Drawer system is able to take such a beating but still perform flawlessly and continue to serve Jarred in his adventurous lifestyle.
This truck, living in the jungle, surfing untouched waves kind of has us wanting to take an extended vacation.
What makes our favorite artists so enamored with the Chevrolet Truck that they just have to write a song about it? Maybe it’s the classic lines or the reliable durability, or maybe it’s a combination of style and comfort. Whatever it is, we’re keeping the faith that after you fall in love with a Chevy, you’ll never go back.
Once you settle into that smooth ride, you’re going to want to trick out your truck, and there are a million ways to make it more comfortable, more useful, more organized, safer, and likely more badass. Here’s the rundown on the most useful OEM and aftermarket Chevy Silverado accessories on the market. We break it down to:
You depend on your truck bed. If you didn’t need to haul stuff, you’d probably have bought a minivan or something, right? But your truck bed doesn’t have to be just a basic truck bed. Oh, no. You can do way better than basic.
Tonneau covers fit over your truck bed like a roof, covering everything inside. They come in a variety of styles, with varying levels of functionality. Here are just a few different types:
Which one is right for you? Here’s our handy guide to the best tonneau covers to help you decide.
Into camping? Need to sleep it off in the parking lot after a hard night of “Cotton-eyed Joe” in your favorite roadhouse? Turning your truck bed into a living space is relatively easy. There is a wide range of tents that mount on top of your truck and keep your feet dry and snakes out of your sleeping bag (unless you’re into that kind of thing…).
If you’re springing for a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 or a new Colorado, you want to protect your investment. You can get a bed mat or a full bed liner to cover the bottom and sides. It won’t add functionality, but it will keep your truck bed free of scratches and dents (unless, of course, you like wrestling grizzlies as much as we do).
The huge range of truck accessories available includes kits to light up every part of your truck, including truck bed lights. Seems like a no-brainer, right? Light up the inside of the truck bed, and you can see what the heck you’re doing, even if you’re way off-road. Pretty handy when you’re camping or using your truck bed as a workstation.
Of course, if you have the DECKED Drawer System, you don’t need a bed liner. It can support a 2,000 lb payload (maybe that Grizzly were talking about earlier) and is heavy-duty enough to take a lot of punishment. Your glorious Chevy truck is protected, and your tools and gear are secure. And our limited lifetime warranty adds an extra layer of protection for your wallet.
If you plan on using your truck as more than a pavement princess, we recommend taking a look at the DECKED Drawer System. It gets you organized and keeps your tools and gear secure, safe, organized, and weatherproof. DECKED’s obsession with modular storage means you can use Crossboxes, D-Boxes, Drawerganizers, and dividers to sort your stuff, and swap it out quickly. Plus, if you use your truck for more than one purpose, like construction during the week and hunting on the weekends, you can switch out one set of boxes for another and be ready for the next thing in minutes.
So, how does it create more space? Easy. DECKED Drawers have a durable top that supports up to 2,000 pounds, and it covers your wheel wells to give you a bigger load surface. With our drawers installed, you still have full use of your truck bed with all your stuff locked up underneath. It doesn’t get any better than that.
Need even more space? Check out our brand-spankin’ new Tool Box designed with working men and women in mind. Like all our products, it’s built right here in the United States and made to last. Its revolutionary design includes a built-in ladder, so you can reach the contents even if your name isn’t LeBron James. It’s only compatible with some Drawer Systems right now, but if you need an indestructible DECKED Tool Box so secure it’ll make a grown thief cry, this one’s for you. (Sly nod to Budweiser!)
After you’re lit up, protected, and organized, let’s look at your cab. These newfangled luxury rides are absolutely nothing like the mangy rustbuckets we drove 30 years ago. Remember hard vinyl bench seats, clunky transmissions, and hit-or-miss air conditioning? Those days are long gone. Today, you can be looking at a Bose sound system and heated (and cooled!) seats that adjust six ways to Sunday.
The downside to such a sweet ride is that now you really have to take care of your truck. After all, your truck could still be on the road 200,000 miles down the line. If you’re still driving the same truck in 15 years (up to 7.6% of us do!), you want it to look great, right? That means keeping the wear and tear on everything minimal. Yes, this includes your seats, floor, steering wheel…the whole shebang.
Here are some interior accessories to consider:
Tactical gear storage options: If you carry, you need to safely store your guns. Look for center-console or under-seat options to keep your sidearms out of sight. Unless you have DECKED Drawers, which is the perfect answer to traveling with guns.
Your truck interior is all about you, but the exterior is what turns heads when you drive by. If you want your truck to make a statement, here’s how to make your ride stand out.
And of course, there are all kinds of decals and bumper stickers if you want to make a more personal statement about who you are or what you think about…things.
Finally, you might be interested in customizing the performance of your truck. Here are a few accessories to add some more functionality.
If you’re a real truck guy, your truck is part of your charm (maybe even ALL of your charm?). It’s your domain and probably where you spend a lot of your time. Chevy trucks are in it for the long haul, so you might be together for a long, long time. You want a ride that’s comfortable, functional, organized, and personal. You want the perfect accessories for all your automotive needs.
Show your Chevy you care by giving her what she deserves. Yup, that definitely means DECK-ing it out and hitting that checkout button. You know you want to.
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