Andrew Cutler’s 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Offroad

For Andrew Cutler, off-roading isn’t just a weekend hobby—it’s a way of life. Living in Vernon, British Columbia, he needed a truck that could handle the diverse terrain of the Pacific Northwest while serving as a reliable basecamp for long-haul adventures. His 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road, known as SCAIA, is more than just a build—it’s the result of years of trial, error, and fine-tuning to create the ultimate overland-ready Tacoma.

Andrew’s approach to modifying his truck has been about functionality first. Under the hood, a YotaWerx tune sharpens performance, optimizing throttle response and power delivery to compensate for the heavier build. To keep things moving smoothly, 5.29 Nitro Gears were installed in the front and rear differentials, ensuring the truck can turn 35-inch tires without sacrificing performance. A twin ARB air compressor unit, neatly mounted under the hood with a rerouted air line to the front bumper, provides quick inflation when the trail calls for a pressure adjustment.

The Tacoma’s suspension has undergone significant refinement. Andrew originally ran multiple setups before settling on a 2.5-inch Old Man Emu BP-51 suspension system with reservoirs for optimal dampening and control. The addition of SPC upper control arms, Dobinson heavy-duty leaf springs, and Pacbrake air bags balances load-carrying capacity with on-trail performance, ensuring the truck handles well under any condition.

Andrew made key modifications to fit 17-inch Black Rhino Convoy wheel and oversized 35-inch General Grabber tires. A cab mount relocation and two-inch fender and trim cut were necessary to prevent rubbing, while C4 Fabrication’s high-clearance aluminum fender liners keep everything protected from debris.

Where the truck really stands apart is in its body and armor. Up front, a Coastal Offroad high-clearance steel bumper provides protection, while the UpTOP Overland ‘Bravo’ roof rack offers additional gear storage. The real game-changer is the Summit Expedition Trucks tray and canopy system, which replaces the stock truck bed. This Australian-inspired setup is rare in Canada and has completely transformed the Tacoma’s functionality. Topping off the build is an iKamper Skycamp DLX 3.0 rooftop tent and a Quick Pitch 270-degree awning, making overland travel more comfortable and efficient.

Lighting is a critical component of any off-road build, and Andrew has it dialed in. His setup includes 10 Vivid Lumen Series FNG 5-inch pods mounted across the roof, and as ditch lights, a 22-inch Midnight Series light bar tucked into the front bumper, and FNG 3-inch pods in the fog light housings, ensure maximum visibility on remote trails.

Inside, the truck has been reworked for both comfort and practicality. Andrew opted for a 60% rear seat delete, making space for a TemboTusk fridge slide that houses a Dometic CFX3 45L fridge and CRX 65L RV fridge, to guarantee food and drinks stay cold on extended trips. A Renogy 170Ah lithium battery and DC-to-DC charger power the entire setup, managed by a VoSwitch 8-button panel for seamless control over accessories.

This Tacoma has seen its fair share of trails, including the Washington Backroad Discovery Route, and has made appearances at some of the biggest overlanding events in the region, such as PNW Overland Expo, BC Overland Rally, and the Alberta Outdoor Adventure Expo. Through these experiences, Andrew has dialed in his setup to meet the real demands of off-road travel.

Like any serious build, there have been lessons along the way. Andrew has reworked his setup three times, fine-tuning what works best for him. His biggest piece of advice? “Do your research and talk to others who’ve built similar trucks. I’ve changed my setup three times and finally found what works best for me.” He also stresses the importance of patience: “Don’t cut corners. If you can’t afford the right parts now, wait until you can. It’ll save you time and money in the long run.”

Looking ahead, Andrew plans a full suspension overhaul to address wear and tear on his BP-51 shocks, ensuring the truck remains capable for years to come. But for now, SCAIA is exactly where it needs to be—a finely oiled, battle-tested Tacoma built for adventure, exploration, and the endless pursuit of the next great trail.

UPGRADES

2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road SCAIA

Owner: Andrew Cutler

Vernon, BC, Canada

Engine & Drivetrain: ECU Tune: YotaWerx tune; Gearing: 5.29 Nitro Gears (front & rear); Rear Axle: Toyota E-Locker; Air Compressor: Twin ARB air compressor unit under hood

Suspension: Lift: 2.5-inch Old Man Emu BP-51 with reservoirs; Upper Control Arms: SPC; Leaf Springs: Dobinson heavy-duty with add-a-leaf; Airbags: Pacbrake air bags

Wheels & Tires: Tires: 35-inch General Grabber tires; Wheels: 17-inch Black Rhino Convoy rims; Fender Modifications: Cab mount relocation, 2-inch fender and trim cut; Fender Liners: C4 Fabrication high clearance aluminum fender liners

Body & Armor: Front Bumper: Coastal Offroad high clearance steel bumper; Roof Rack: UpTOP Overland ‘Bravo’; Canopy: iKamper Skycamp DLX 3.0; Awning: Quick Pitch 270-Degree 2.5m Weathershade; Exterior Lighting: 10 Vivid Lumen Series FNG 5-inch pods (roof & ditch lights), 22-inch Midnight Series light bar (front bumper), 4 FNG 3-inch pods (fog lights)

Interior & Accessories: Rear Seat Delete: 60% removed; Fridge & Storage: TemboTusk Fridge Slide, Dometic CFX3 45L fridge, Dometic CRX 65L RV fridge; Power System: Renogy 170Ah lithium battery, Renogy DC-to-DC charger; Switch Panel: VoSwitch 8-button panel

Most Unique Feature: Summit Expedition Trucks tray and canopy system (Australian-inspired setup, rare in Canada)