Finally got my new wheels and tires on the truck. Still waiting on tire #6 to show up but why not get out and get a shakedown run on the new setup. I went with Icon Alphas wrapped in BFG KM3. (wheel specs 17x7 +6, tire specs 315/70r17)

As I have been planning on adding a RTT to my camping setup, I wanted to make sure I set the truck up to handle the additional weight while driving on rough terrain. I have heard that the aluminum beds of the Ford is susceptible to being damaged from off-roading and weight on the bed rails where it spreads the rear of the box sides apart. There is a whole aftermarket for device that restrict this spreading (seems even Tacoma's are in the same boat). I had been looking for an excuse to start a basic fabrication project and here is what I was able to create. Check out my post here for more photos and write up of the steps involved.

I am loving the Raptor. Nowhere as nimble as the FJ but I wanted something with some creature comforts for daily duties and also needed a truck. Decent power, fuel mileage, and suspension, it has been working out great.

Another small addition from Ronin Factory! Shorty Antenna

Seems to me there is always a question about bed racks on the various FB groups centered around overlanding. Here is what I decided to go with: Xtrusion-Overland XTR1 - New bed rack on the market that requires no specialty tools and about 2 hours of your time to put together and install. This thing is very modular and YOUR imagination is the limit (you will see what I mean in the future). Part 1 is about receiving it and the condition it was in. Part 2 is going over all the parts and pieces that were included. Part 3 is assembly.

Installed a Builtright Industries Base Mount with 67 Designs arms and phone holder, a RAM ball for my iPAD mini RAM mount arm and holder, and a RAM clip to attach my Garmin InReach to the 67D arm. More info, specs, and where to purchase on my post. .

Looks like I have a few updates to add here. I added a tailgate assist. Now the Raptor comes with a soft open system however the last few inches it just falls with a clunk. Check out the assist I added from Ronin Factory on my post.

Mt. Baker areas are great place to explore. My backyard!

Chumstick is an awesome spot! Bethel Ridge is also a great but it seems to be getting way more popular these days. I like the Loop Loop Forest and Skull & Crossbones Cabin area.

The deepest was probably around 16". This particular crossing required an up hill rocky climb just on the other side of the water. We entered from the south end. If you entered from the north and left from the north, that spot could be avoided. There were AWD vans and sedans in a couple of places. Guarantee they entered from the north.

Thank you!

My most used piece of equipment on the FJ was the air compressor. I had ARB Twin and being that I am familiar with it and was happy with the performance, I decided I would go that route again (shout out to Dean with Explore Outdoor for the great price and very quick shipping). This time however instead of going from tire to tire for airing up, I will be utilizing an UpDownAir 4 Tire Inflation kit with the ARB. This will allow deflating and inflating of all 4 tires at the same time to a set pressure. The initial install will be without a tank but I may end up with one. Not decided yet. I also purchased the UpDownAir Raptor bed mount and will run it for awhile but may end up moving it to underneath the truck if I can find a good spot and build a guard for it. Check out where to get it and my post here. (I will be making some changes in the future).

Great! Thank you. We did Van Epps that day as well and I have a feeling I know what rock ledge you are talking about and made it past there but not much further due to the snow. The giant boulders in the middle of the switch backs were a nice touch to the trail.

How was it?

I forgot to add the date, we went up May 31st. Went on vacation the next day and just recently got back. So a little behind on the trip update. Up here in the Mt. Baker area the lakes at 5100 feet are still covered and snow and ice. Just checked today.

I am in the same boat. I could use the tracks/waypoints as well. Was thinking about doing this Memorial Day weekend.