I’m starting to seriously consider switching to a flatbed for my 2nd-gen Tacoma. I currently have an Access Cab and have been thinking about going with an 84-inch flatbed. I had considered getting a GFC, but my bed is starting to split, and I’m worried about investing in a camper that might not hold up well with my current setup.
I really love my truck and want to keep it for a while longer. I’ve added some bed stiffeners, but they don’t seem to have made much of a difference. It seems like a waste to spend around $10k (since I’m Canadian) on a camper for a bed that might not withstand the wear and tear.
If I do go with a flatbed, I’d either get a rooftop tent or build a small camper to fit on top of the bed. Since my Tacoma isn’t my daily driver anymore, I’m more interested in modifying it and taking it off-road more frequently.
It sounds like you’ve given this a lot of thought, and a flatbed could be a great option if you’re looking to make your Tacoma more versatile. Since you’re dealing with issues with your current bed, switching to a flatbed might solve that problem and give you more flexibility for overlanding gear or a small camper.
If you decide to go this route, you might want to check out UTELTD for some ideas and options on flatbeds and custom solutions. They have a variety of products that could help you build out the setup you’re envisioning. With your truck no longer being your daily driver, it’s a good time to make those upgrades and get it ready for some serious off-road adventures.
I’m not sure if you’re already aware of this, so I apologize if it sounds condescending or if my post isn’t the clearest (which I admit can be a problem).
Tacomas, and I think Tundras too, are known for having issues with the bed walls separating over time due to the composite material used in the floor and sides. You can easily check for this problem by looking at your tailgate. If everything is okay, the sides of the bed should be parallel. If there’s a V-shaped gap starting to form, that’s a sign of separation, and you might also see cracks in the composite material. If you don’t haul much or have a topper (which is why mine is splitting), you might not encounter these issues. Adding bed stiffeners can help prevent and address this problem.
Not condescending at all, I had no idea this was a common issue. I checked my truck and haven’t noticed any signs of it yet, but it’s good to know so I can keep an eye on it. Thanks for the heads-up.
Absolutely, no problem at all. I’m glad I could help. Bed stiffeners are a great investment and they don’t interfere much. If you can get a set, I’d definitely recommend it. Even if your bed isn’t splitting now, it’s good to be prepared for the future.
