2015 Toyota Tundra
With their 2015-year model of their Tundra removed the V6 from the lineup and added a new off-road trim level, the TRD Pro. No matter the model, with the 2015 Toyota Tundra, you’re getting a muscular V8 Powertrain. The 4.6L V8 comes standard with the SR double cabs and all SR5, and it’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission capable of 310HP and 327ft-lbs of torque. Depending on body style, maximum towing capacity ranges between 6,400-6,800lbs. 4WD regular cabs and all Limited, Platinum, 1794 and TRD Pro trim models include the 5.7L V8 which delivers 381Hp and 401ft-lbs of torque. The tow package that comes standard with these models can haul between 9,800 and 10,500lbs.
TRD Pro Level Protection
With their introduction of the TRD Pro trim, Toyota released a Tundra designed to roll off the shop floor and onto the trails: off-road tires, Bilstein shocks, a raised suspension. For non-TRD Pro models, there are still multiple ways in which you can bolster your Tundra’s own off-roading capabilities. Skid plates, forexample. Also included as standard with the Pro trim, skid plates are designed to protect your truck’s undercarriage against potential damage from trail debris or an absolute shocker of a pothole. A skid plate will house and protect vulnerable - and expensive - parts such: as the fuel tank (often already covered by an OEM plastic plate); rear transfer case; middle transmission; and engine. An engine skid plate will usually encompass the power steering unit, front differential, front cross-member, engine, engine bay, and radiator. If you’re looking for complete coverage, kits are also available that include engine and transmission/T-case plates. Skid plates are manufactured from either heavy-duty steel plating or premium aluminium - the 2015 TRD Pro trim features aluminium engine and fuel engine skid plates. Steel plates are the more budget-friendly option and are a great upgrade over OEM plates. Their powder coating will withstand rust and corrosion, and with some in bright red, blue, gray and tan, can add a flash of color too. Aluminium versions offer excellent all-round protection and are lighter than their steel counterparts. As it's a rust and corrosion-resistant material there’s no paint coat required for aluminium skid plates.
Simple Stance Enhancement
With the 2015 Tundra now past its fifth birthday, you may well be looking into ways to freshen up its look. With the simple, straightforward addition of two (or four) small round pieces of aluminium, a set of aftermarket wheel spacers will widden your ride, changing its stance and updating its appearance. Plus you’ll also enjoy the added benefit of improved handling. Wheel spacers install between your truck’s rotors and wheels, and widen the offset of the wheels, which expands the track width. Wheel spacers are manufactured from aircraft-grade T6 billet aluminium for exceptional strength, and there are two types of spacers:
- Hub-Centric: centered by the wheel hub, the bore hole will precisely fit the wheel centering flange on the hub. This is usually the preferred option as there is no way by which to improperly install a hub centric spacer. Lug-Centric: centered by the lug nuts, the bore hole is several mm larger in diameter than the wheel centering flange. As a result, conical lug nuts must be used to attach a lug centric spacer, and should be tightened by hand.
Sold as a set of four or frequently two (front/rear) offering an added degree of customisation, they can add anywhere between 1.25-2 inches of additional clearance. They are designed to be a direct-fit upgrade and will install with basic hand tools. Wheel spacers can of course be used with your factory tires, though will just as easily accommodate larger, aftermarket tires, preventing any rub against the brake calipers. Just ensure your chosen spacers will provide sufficient clearance.
