TRD(ream)

I'll admit it, I'm not a truck guy. I know about as much about trucks as I do Ospreys (and I don't know much about Ospreys). I do, however, know when I see something I like.
This is one of those things.

     When I originally began looking for people who owner their dream cars, I expected a truck to pop up eventually. I know people love their trucks, and I see plenty that are in amazing condition, so when Brad originally reached out to me it wasn't surprising. Once I actually got to learn about Brad's story, and what he's done with his Tundra, I quickly changed my opinion.

     If you can't tell by the amazing custom headlights, this Toyota Tundra is something awesome. This truck, besides being his dream truck, is a significant part of Brad's life. This Tundra is Brad's dedication to his late father, and is the perfect project truck they were never able to work on together. I have no doubt his father would have loved this Tundra as much as he does.

     Shortly after communicating with Brad, I learned that he's a veteran. He worked the flight line for the Marine Corp., and it was definitely interesting to learn what exactly that meant. After I learned that this truck is dedicated to his father, and that Brad used to work the flight line, I knew I had to pick a good spot for this photo-shoot.

     Thankfully, I also came to realize that Air Wilmington (the private sector of Wilmington's airport; ILM) is an amazingly hospitable facility. I took advantage of there kindness and realized how I could achieve my goal. I was finally able to get Brad's Tundra near the bomber located at Air Wilmington.

     Those of us that have been in love with one particular car for a long time know how Brad feels. He has owned seven Tundras (that's right, seven) in his life, and it has all lead up to this. Having to part with each truck for various reasons has been hard, but this Tundra is the epitome of Brad's dream, and it has definitely been worth it.

     It should be noted that no matter how much he loves Tundras, Brad puts his family first. When I asked him why he got rid of his last Tundra, he told me it was because he got married. He didn't say it in a bad way, either. It was almost like it was a test of his priorities, and I'd definitely say he made the right choice. Just look at what it has gotten him now.

     Custom headlights are rarely better than stock, and if someone told me I'd be photographing a truck that had headlights that changed colors, I'd be really skeptical. Obviously I had no idea about Brad's Tundra. His choices all around his truck are spot on, and the headlights are hard to pull your eyes away from.

     If this Tundra's story isn't enough, what's under the hood will be. With TRD parts all around, and no cheap parts anywhere, this build is beyond average. Pushing 565 HP to the wheels from a stock 381 crank is nothing to scoff at. I may not no much about trucks, but I know what those numbers mean.

    When I asked him when he was going to get rid of this truck , he gave me the exact answer I was looking for: "Never." If there's been a trend with the vehicles I've photographed, that'd be it. Dreams are something you'll never give up. Even if you have to give up something you love for something you love even more, you can always have your dream.

      Even though it's not much, if anything this photo-shoot is to thank Brad for the service he has given this country. It was a great experience getting to meet Brad, and having the opportunity to spend some time around his amazing truck. Now I can't say I don't know much about trucks and Ospreys...

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PERFORMANCE

• TRD Spuercharger with URD pulley
  
• TRD Performance Handling Kit (2/4 drop)
  
• JBA Long Tube Stainless Steel Headers paired with high flow Cat and TRD Dual Exhaust
  
• BAMTrac Traction Bars
  
• BullyDog Tuner
  
• TRD Big Brake Kit
  
• Innovate AF 1 and 2 gauges
  

CUSTOM ADDITIONS

• Advent CD/DVD/NAV with XM and Bluetooth
  
• Auto A/C control upgrade
  
• Power folding mirrors modification
  
• Rear view camera (dual, mirror and dash)
  
• Fender flairs
  
• Tri-fold Tonnou cover
  
• Custom designed Bi-Xenon projector headlights with Oracle dual color halos and TRS DRL with custom eyelids
  
• Rostra L.E.D. DRL panels
  
• Toyota X-SP skid plate
  
• Toyota Sequoia front sway bar
  
• Toyota Hitch
  
• 1 1/2" Wheel adapters
  
• TRD oil and radiator caps
  
• Spare tire and carrier removed
  

PLANNED MODS

• Auburn Pro (or new differential)
  
• Power sliding rear window
  
• Heated perforated leather seats
  
• Limited instrument cluster
  
• Headlight recustomization
  
• Ridged industries L.E.D. fog light replacement
  
• Carbon fiber body wrap
  

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I'd like to thank Brad for taking time away from his family to let his truck get behind my lens, and for all the time he has given our country. Thankfully it was easy to get next to the bomber (thank you Air Wilmington), and the whole process was a breeze. I can't wait to see what else this Tundra will become!