ROCKS-ANN

THE FAMILY-FRIENDLY QUEEN OF THE TRAILS

- JOHN MATA JR

Building a truck capable of overcoming extreme terrain isn't for the weak of heart. It also isn't an activity for those who are impatient either. When built right, these machines can create plenty of positive, memorable experiences. When they're rushed and not properly debugged, the good times can quickly come to a screeching halt while out on the trail. Richie Pilozo, a US Coast Guard member from Rancho Santa Margarita, California, knew there were certain pitfalls he had to avoid while creating a truck for his whole family to enjoy. The routes around these speed bumps aren't usually known for being time- or money-saving, but they are valuable learning experiences that result in owning a reliable, battle-ready rig.

The first thing Richie addressed before building his 2001 Tacoma was his expectation management. Instead of buying a newer truck that he couldn't bear to sideline for too long, he selected an older pickup to work on— something Richie would recommend to anyone looking to build a truck as intensive as his. “Take your time and enjoy doing things right the first time,” he suggests. “Make steps towards your build goal at a comfortable pace. These rigs don't come together overnight, and the last thing you want to do is miss something important.”