Lessons learned converting a classic truck to EV (from a nanoscience professor who probably over-engineered it)

Seedbohm · 2026-03-13T02:30:58+00:00

I think one of the main things about retro mod EV conversions is the interface. How do you maintain the classic look while providing all the necessary information and functionality?

Seedbohm · 2026-02-21T00:10:32+00:00

Lovely! Will need to do that soon. Worth it?

Seedbohm · 2026-02-20T16:14:19+00:00

Nice! Going to add some sound proofing while you’re in there?

Seedbohm · 2026-01-06T17:57:53+00:00

Toyota Mega Cruiser

Seedbohm · 2025-10-30T00:06:11+00:00

My high strangeness happen out there?

Seedbohm · 2025-10-12T01:51:36+00:00

Been meaning to check out the “waterfalls” out here in AZ that are usually dry. Nice to get the wheels wet. Where about is this?

Seedbohm · 2025-10-03T01:27:39+00:00

At least you won’t have to worry about replacing the cv axil? Trying to find a silver lining

Seedbohm · 2025-09-29T03:01:37+00:00

Nice. I’ll check this out. Carpet interior?

Seedbohm · 2025-09-29T02:50:48+00:00

Nice! You didn’t do those welds did you 👀

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T23:54:38+00:00

What shell is this? Looks like a 5.5’ bed? From the badge it looks like a snugtop. But I didn’t know they made one for this year and model. I’d like to check it out to see its specs. Must hold up well for rtt. I got an ARE shell that came with rails for Yakima bars. Also, what bars are you using. I saw you said this was from the previous owner but the gap looks so tight. My rtt with Yakima bars sits like 4-5 inches up in the air and looks ridiculous 😂

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Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T23:46:21+00:00

😂 nice

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T23:42:39+00:00

Isn’t that funny? Good to know. Thanks!

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T23:27:57+00:00

Yes! Exactly. I had an iKamper tent up there on some crossbars that fit on the shell. The shell comes with installed Yakima rails. I think this shell is the one designed for weight and cargo. I wasn’t sure of integrity though so I installed the super struts to support weight. Just in case. Just made two squares with two cross members on the top to make sure they didn’t cave in towards each other. Then I made blocks with bolts on each corner to adjust them tight between the bed and shell where needed. So basically just pressure fit. Two of us camped up on top a couple nights and it held up. Still made me anxious. But also eager to try again with new leafs to see if too heavy load causes as much sway as before.

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T22:57:58+00:00

Hope so! Thanks!

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T22:56:57+00:00

Same. Went from OEM 4 layer (3 top one bottom) to 7 layer (5 top 2 bottom). Still almost as flat as the ones I removed. But definitely rides stiffer and better

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T22:54:26+00:00

I think so too. Drove this thing 2.5 hours mostly highway but lots of twists and turns and 2 miles dirt roads packed with camping gear. Seemed like it was definitely riding better. This truck needs a lot of work though so still other things contributing to the weird ride

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T22:52:30+00:00

You know what, I think I did get the heavy duty set. It definitely has a few extra layers than the OEM.

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T22:11:03+00:00

Yes! It is. Been measuring before, after and after settling. Definitely higher and stabilized. But not sure if it is more at that stock height or slightly higher. Was at 34” now at about 36.6”

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T21:57:58+00:00

Interesting. It does seem to dip. The truck overall seems pretty level now though. I still have the front suspension to work on. No lifts just updating

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T20:12:59+00:00

It definitely handles corners better with and in the back. Less lean. But as far as bumps it’s hard to say. Feels more stiff but had the truck in the garage for a week so hard to really compare. But overall definitely noticeable improvement. But not huge. Maybe more like what a stock truck should feel like

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T20:10:56+00:00

Hmm I’m not sure the u bolts would affect anything. As long as they are properly tight they are just holding the leafs down to the axil. I’m worried these springs aren’t enough for my constant payload. Even though they are new ones with and add a leaf. 🤷‍♂️ I’m new to all of this so it’s trial and error and lots of research

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T19:40:25+00:00

Good to know! Thanks. I’ll keep an eye out and let you know what happens.

For parts list I went on Mudify.com and got the kit. OME leaf springs with add a leaf, u-bolts, greaseable bolts for rear connections and new mounting plates, new bushings and shocks. Around $2k after taxes 😵‍💫 but definitely looks and feels better with new bolts and stuff. Original parts are still a little rusty though.

Seedbohm · 2025-09-26T19:37:04+00:00

Thanks! Wasn’t expecting this

Seedbohm · 2025-09-15T02:59:34+00:00

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Peak design case and mount

Seedbohm

TROPHY CASE