When Carl Montoya founded Nitro Gear & Axle in 2008 his goal was to provide gears for vehicle applications that, at the time, weren’t available. Over the years, Nitro has evolved and Carl has continued to integrate his enjoyment of outdoors recreation with the vehicles he builds that are designed to tackle any challenge en route to the trailhead. His latest example, a 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD Offroad, was built to not only get through any terrain its challenged with but also drive comfortably as a daily driver, a challenge many folks have when building out a vehicle specifically for overland travel. Carl’s goal was to maintain driveability around town but also make this Tacoma capable of getting him anywhere, whether on a weekend vehicle-based adventure or an extended overland journey.
If you’re looking for a truck to emulate in your own build out, Carl’s is definitely one to use as a blueprint and is upgraded as follows:
Differential Gearing & Carrier Upgrades:
- 5.29 Nitro Gear Package (GPTACO2016-8.75)
- ARBRD111 Air Locker (Front)
Aux Upgrades:
- ARBCKMTA12 Dual Air Compressor w/Manifold & Pump Up Kit
- ARB Fridge Wiring Kit
- Expedition Essentials Twin Compressor Bedside Mount, Manifold Mount & Extended Harness
- 3TPAM Dash Mount
- RAM Mount (phone)
- CB Mount
- Pop & Lock Power Tailgate Lock for Toyota
- Remote Start Kit
- TRD Pro Headlamps
- TRD Pro Wheels
- TRD Pro Rigid Fog Light & Bezel
- Hypertech Speedometer Calibrator
- 34″ Nitto Ridgegrappler tires
Offroad Accessories:
- Victory 4×4 Transfer Case & Gas Tank Skid Plates
- Nitro extended travel ball joint style upper control arms
- Victory 4×4 Blitz Semi Hidden Winch Bumper w/o Tube
- Victory 4×4 Double Cab Shortbed Sliders
- COMEUP Seal Gen 2 9.5RS, 12V Winch
- Factor55 Flatlink, Black
- Factor55 Hawse Fairlead, Slim, Grey
- 2016+ Tacoma 2.5′ Suspension Kit – OME BP51 Bypass Shocks
- SBR Offroad Front Sway Bar Relocate Kit
- ToyTec Lifts Differentials Drop Kit
- TRD Pro Grille – Aftermarket
- FOX Racing Tailgate Pad
- Extang SolidFold 2.0 Tonneau Cover
- Mountain Hatch Tailgate Insert
You can learn more about Carl and Nitro Gear & Axle in our upcoming issue release of OutdoorX4 Magazine as we’ve interviewed him as part of our Around the Campfire series. Also visit Nitro Gear & Axle’s website for all your re-gearing needs at www.justdifferentials.com.
OutdoorX4 Magazine – Promoting responsible vehicle-based adventure travel and outdoors adventure