Now that the mods are coming along a bit quicker, I thought I would start a build up thread.
My ute is a 2005 Hilux Dual Cab SR 4x4, fitted with auto transmission and the D4D 3 litre turbo diesel, with 149kkm on the clock when I bought it. It was in great condition when I bought it, considering it's age, but has a few extra scratches now.
The first mod was to fit a DigOptions Head Unit, combining On Road Navigation, Offroad Navigation (OziExplorer), CD/DVD Player, Radio, Bluetooth and Reverse Camera. I was slightly disappointed with the radio reception when I first got it, but after discovering that my aerial was jammed and not fully extended, the reception is considerably better. As it runs Windows Mobile other programs can be run, which makes this unit fun for the tinkerer. I modified the included menu picture to suit my vehicle.
After having a Scan Gauge II in my old ute...
.., I wanted to use it in my Hilux, but alas, the Scan Gauge II only works in the 2007 onwards models. Fortunately, Brendon on here came across the Smart Gauge, which works with the '05/'06 D4Ds. This allows me to monitor the Coolant Temp, Turbo Boost and other items, including an adjustable speedo to allow for upsized tyres.
I've also purchased a Dual A Pillar Pod from Matt at Monster Rides, so I can fit boost and EGT gauges at a later date.
A couple of more mods picked up thanks to the Forum was to disconnect the Key-In-Ignition Beeper and the Folding Back Seat mod. The beeper disable returned my sanity, as I often end up with the keys sitting in the Ignition with doors wide open while 'fixing' something, and the seat mod allows access to a surprising amount of room to store my tools that were previously in a box in my insecure tray.
Wanting to protect the under carriage as much as possible, I've fitted the Bud's Customs Bash Plates. Excellent quality and considerably heavier than the stock tin plates.
Next was a LED Interior Light. My ute is fitted with a mine required roll bar and therefore the interior light is impeded. After fitting the LED light, the front of the cabin is lit up fantastically, but the bar still blocks most of the light getting into the rear.
The Ultimate Suspension Sprint Booster was the next acquisition. This is an awesome bit of gear for the driver that doesn't constantly have their foot buried to the floor. It increases the throttle response with option between off, green and red modes. Read the thread to get the nitty-gritty but I am most impressed by the improvement in acceleration. To quote my Wife, "Holy S**tballs! That's quick now! You used to have to give it a bit to get going, but now it just takes off."
After umming and ahhing over what to do with suspension I got onto Cal at Cal Offroad and ordered a Bilstein 2" lift for the front and 1" lifting blocks for the rear. It has ended up quite a bit higher than the 2" currently, but Cal expects it to settle a bit more. I love the look of it as it is, but I'm trying to keep it all legal.
Now we are up to the present...
Currently getting quotes on wheels and tyres and flares to cover them.
I have ambitions of making my ute look like the TRD, but we'll see.
I was hoping for it, but didn't expect it.
