Slide 1

Our 2020 Tacoma SR5 is an excellent foundation for outdoor enthusiasts. This mid-size truck has Toyota’s tough-as-nails 3.5L V6 engine, generating 278 horsepower through a 6-speed automatic transmission. From the factory it’s equipped to tow up to 6,800 lbs. and sports a respectable 9.4" of ground clearance. However, the Summit truck experts had a larger vision for our project—Wayfinder was built to take hunters deeper into the woods and anglers closer to their favorite fishing holes. Read on to learn how we outfitted our rig to achieve our goal.

Slide 2

The team first upgraded the suspension to accommodate larger tires and increased suspension travel using Tuff Country's EZ-Ride 3" Suspension Lift. The kit includes upper front spacers that mount above the factory coilovers, upgraded control arms to maintain proper suspension geometry, rear add-a-leafs, lift blocks, SX8000 nitro gas rear shocks, and all the necessary hardware. These components preserve the factory ride quality while allowing for up to 32" x 10.5" tires.

Slide 3

To better utilize that newfound tire clearance, we swapped out the original wheels for an upgraded set of Fuel Off-Road wheels wrapped in 285/70-17 Attura Trail Blade X/T tires. These tires are ideal for all-terrain use, with smaller tread blocks that improve wet traction and reduce noise, plus larger shoulder blocks that provide excellent performance on muddy trails.

Slide 4

The All-Pro Low Profile Front Bumper provides added durability and style to our project Tacoma's front facia. The bumper features a black powdercoated aluminum outer shell with a steel support structure that can withstand the pull of up to a 12,000 lb. winch. It also includes 3/4" steel recovery points and is available with a hoop option and integrated mounting tabs for pod lights or a single-row light bar up to 30" long.

We installed a Superwinch LP Series 8,500 lb. winch behind our All-Pro bumper to be always ready to go in emergencies. It's equipped with a powerful 4.5 hp motor, 235:1 planetary gear reduction, and a 5/16" steel cable, making it ideal for pulling Wayfinder through (and most importantly out of) challenging terrain.

Slide 5

Out back, we installed a matching All-Pro Off-Road Dual Swing Out Bumper for improved clearance and an aggressive look. It has an integrated 2" receiver hitch, which is concealed behind the license plate when not in use. Best of all, this design helped us increase our Tacoma’s storage space without affecting bed accessibility.

The swing-out arms can be locked in two open positions: 90° and 135°. We used one of the arms to carry our spare tire (the bumper is designed to hold tires up to 37 inches in size), and the other arm was perfect for holding our RotopaX Gen 2 Utility Jugs.

The included rear-facing LED lights provide ample illumination for loading our boat or preparing for an evening at camp after returning from the field.

Slide 6

Up top, our All-Pro Off-Road Roof Rack offers a ton of versatile storage. Made from durable powdercoated 5052 aluminum, the crossbars feature multiple pre-drilled points, providing a secure mounting position for our kayak, plus items like rifle and bow cases, camping gear, and other essentials.

Slide 7

Go Rhino E1 Electric Running Boards make entry and exit a breeze without reducing ground clearance. Dual motors deploy the 6" wide aluminum steps the second you open or close the Tacoma’s door. For added safety, integrated LED lights illuminate your footing, and a textured surface provides a secure step.

Slide 8

Our next priority was the cargo area—proper storage and comfortable sleeping arrangements at the camp can make a significant difference in getting a good night's rest before the morning's hike into the field.

To maximize our mid-sizer’s storage potential, we installed Fishbone Offroad Bedside MOLLE Panels, creating a secure tie-down location while taking up minimal space.

Slide 9

Additionally, we used AirBedz Original Truck Bed Camo Air Mattress, which inflates to the bed's exact space, providing a comfortable place to rest off the ground. The 12" tall mattress features heavy-duty fabric construction with an air coil system, distributing body weight evenly. It even has a built-in pump, rechargeable battery, and a convenient storage bag, so set-up is quick and easy.

To cap things off, we opted for the Bestop Supertop for Truck 2 Tonneau Cover. It’s a versatile option that protects our cargo from the elements. Made of heavy-duty Black Diamond fabric and featuring an integrated bow system, one person can easily fold it to gain unrestricted access to the truck bed for hauling large items. Additionally, the side covers can be rolled up or removed, allowing for an open-style configuration, and it includes a built-in storage system

Slide 10

Milwaukee tools and equipment are widely used on job sites, but they’re also versatile and portable enough to help in the field. The M18™ FUEL HATCHET 8" pruning saw can quickly and quietly clear limbs or brush for a blind or cut up wood for a fire. The IP54-rated M18 Search Light provides over 1,200 lumens of light for up to 7 hours, making it ideal for assisting in recovery from a late-hour shot.

Part of Milwaukee’s modular storage system, the PACKOUT Rolling Tool Chest is designed to withstand rain and debris, with heavy-duty latches and a 250 lb. weight capacity. Plus, its 9" all-terrain wheels make it easy to move over small obstacles in the field. The M18 CARRY-ON 3,600/1,800-Watt Power Supply is perfect for charging phones, two-way radios, GPS units, lights, and other essential equipment. Other convenient tools in our Milwaukee lineup include the M12 stick transfer pump, M18 FUEL 1/2" drill, PACKOUT wall plates, an M18 fan, M18 PACKOUT Radio and Charger, and an M18 RADIUS Compact Light.

Milwaukee’s PACKOUT™ storage system helps us keep our campsite organized and equipment ready to go. Summit offers a complete range of hardworking and reliable Milwaukee products, including automotive tools, home and yard equipment, and all the outdoor gear found on Project Wayfinder. 

Check out all the Milwaukee tools, PACKOUT storage solutions, and accessories featured on Project Wayfinder right here:

PACKOUT™ Organizers
Long Handle Tool Rack
Wall Plates
Tool Cases
79-Piece Class A Type III PACKOUT First Aid Kit
PACKOUT Rolling Tool Chests
M18™/M12™ Cordless Tools
FUEL™ Brushless 1/2" Hammer Driver Drill
FUEL HATCHET 8" Pruning Saw
Search Lights
RADIUS Compact Site Lights
Jobsite Fan
PACKOUT Radio and Charger
TOP-OFF 175-Watt Power Supply
CARRY-ON 3,600/1,800-Watt Power Supply
Stick Transfer Pump

Slide 11

Under the hood, we ditched the factory prop rod in favor of a set of Redline Tuning QuickLIFT Elite Lift Supports. To enhance the stout V6’s performance, we bolted on K&N’s popular 63 Series Aircharger cold air intake, plus an AWE Tuning 0FG Stainless Exhaust System out back. The true dual cat-back system delivers improved flow and a mellow tone while cruising thanks to AWE’s patented drone-canceling 180 Technology®. Designed for off-road duty, the system is engineered for improved ground clearance and equipped with bash guards to protect it from damage.

These upgrades work together to provide more horsepower and torque for pulling our boat while also enhancing fuel economy.

Slide 12

Inside Wayfinder's cabin, we installed an AllPro Off-Road Overhead Molle Panel. Made from CNC-cut 14-gauge steel, the panel bolts on without drilling and provides mounting options for rifles, bows, flashlights, tools, and more.

Slide 13

In addition, we installed a Tuffy Locking Storage Security Lid behind the rear folding seat in our Tacoma. It's constructed from durable welded steel to ensure that valuable items are kept safe and secure.

And, of course, we threw down a set of WeatherTech DigitalFit Floor Liners to protect the interior from tracked-in mud, water, and debris.

Slide 14

Our 2020 Tacoma is ready to take anglers to the lake and hunters into the field in style, and serve as a fully equipped basecamp for all our adventures. With the upgrades we've installed, Wayfinder builds on the Tacoma’s reputation for reliability and dependability, while adding functionality way beyond anything offered from the factory.

Slide 15

If your truck or SUV regularly sees the trails or trips to the water, check out our incredible selection of parts and accessories at SummitRacing.com/Truck. Let our off-road experts help you transform your rig with more than 1,500 trusted brands, all backed by Summit’s legendary service. For more photos and installation videos, visit our Project Wayfinder YouTube page for more exciting updates.