Recommendations on a new build
I've got a 2011 that I bought a couple years ago with the intention of turning into an overlander. Well, the truck's paid off, all of the core fixes are done, credit card has room, and I'm ready to start shoppin' and choppin'. This is an image I am using as inspiration, but other than the rear suspension, my truck is still mostly stock claret mica red GX - so, it's mostly a clean slate at this point. I did also get an OTT tune, that I'm loving - except for the fuel economy (it's just so rev happy now).
Anywho, what I'm wanting to find out is,
Between the Victory 4x4 Strike and Expedition One rear bumpers, which is better? Are there other bumpers I should look at with similar designs? I definitely like the double swing design, but I could consider other options. I want to be able to tow, but I also want max departure angle.
I'm a disabled vet with reduced mobility, and frequently carry others with mobility issues. What I'm looking for is a solid rock rail/slider solution that would allow me to add automatic retracting steps inside or behind the sliders. Any suggestions?
I'm looking to go to 33s or 34s, with custom wheels, and 2.5"-3" lift. I know the stock offset is +25. I've been looking at wheels with +18, to reduce how much body mods I'll need to make. How far out can I go with 34s without needing to do major surgery? Given my goals are not to do extreme wheeling in this vehicle (got other plans for that), what is kind of the sweet spot for tire size/offset?
What are some of the surprises you've found that you wish you had known about before your build? Unexpected costs? Mods? Changes that, in hindsight, you would have done differently?
Appreciate the input.