I need some help from the experts on this board!

Have a 2002 Tacoma Ex Cab, V6, 5SPD, 4x4, Diff Lock, TRD -- bought brand new in 2002 -- 75K miles. I occasionally carry a Six-Pac Cab-over camper that I also bought new in 2002 -- camper weighs about 1500 lbs dry. Additions to the truck to carry the camper have been: Michelin 10 ply tires capable of inflating to 80 pounds, 1 ton spring leafs on the rear, and rear air bags with a compressor under the hood for inflation -- otherwise it is all stock.

I also have a 1994 Ford Bronco I bought brand new in '93 -- has 234K on the rig with an overhauled engine and transmission about 60k ago. It also has a Warn M12000 winch that I would like to see if it would install neatly on the Tacoma -- I am going to sell the Bronco & keep the Tacoma.

Here are the questions for the experts:

• Is there a bumper that would accomodate this winch?

• If so, should I be looking at Schrock, TJM, ARB, Calmini, Armorology, Irbis, Rock-Tec, or others?

• What do I need to do to the stock suspension to bring the rig level when the bumper and winch are installed? Looking for the best solution -- not climbing rocks, or things like that (I've already done all that when I was younger with the older Broncos & Land Cruisers -- Now it is just my wife and I going into the back country, using the camper for a base station for snowmobiling, backpacking, etc.

• What about an extra battery or heavy duty output alternator -- ideas? -- Is it necessary?

• Are there any other ideas I may or may not know to ask about?

I like my vehicles to be competent & capable, with a decent appearance -- so I'm not looking to do a radical change -- just want the peace of mind of having a winch when necessary. The Tacoma is an air bag equipped vehicle.

What would you guys do if this was your situation?

Thanks in advance for the help & I look forward to a solution.

Attached are (3) pics.

All the Best,

Fred

 

welcom to YT!

Nice look'n Taco

mods please move

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/