Base Model
We started our transformation by removing the chrome accents. The chrome grille surrounds and sections of the rear bumper did not fit in with the look of the truck. The emblems and trim around the windows are matte black, and the door handles are color coordinated. So, we removed the chrome pieces and sent those to the paint shop to do a color match.
Lift Kit
Our next step was to add a 3 ½ inch kit. Everything we needed to get a proper alignment while keeping the factory ride is included in the kit. We have the tubular upper control arms, sway bar relocation brackets, differential relocation brackets, and strut spacers, which gave it the lift in the front. Then we added a rear track bar bracket, shock relocation brackets, and rear coil spacers to the back.
Wheels and Tires
After installing the lift, we moved on to wheels and tires. We went with the Nitto Trail Grappler in a 35X12.50R20 wrapped around the TIS Off-Road 556BA. This is in a nice flat black with Anthracite rock ring in a 20X9, and a 20 mm Offset that match our emblems and wheel well moldings.
Steps
Following the wheel and tire upgrade, we tackled the steps. This Tundra did not come with factory steps; however, Toyota did have the bolts in place, making this a simple install. We went with Rough Country's SR2 Adjustable Aluminum Steps. These steps have a nice angular design that flows with the body line of the truck and are in a matte black, which matches up with the emblems and wheels.
Bed Cover
Our last install for the day was a Rough Country Low Profile Hard Tonneau Cover. Like the lift kit, the cover comes with all the hardware for easy installation. The 2022 Tundra has a factory cargo management rail where the bed cover clamps and bed rails will attach. The rails for our bedcover have drain ports so that any water that makes its way past the bed cover won't make it into the bed.
With this 2022 Tundra build-up, you can see how subtle changes we made created a dramatic difference. Although the 3 ½ inch kit wasn't a massive lift, it is bigger than a leveling kit and allows us to run 35X12.50 20 tires. The matte black SR2 Step is an aluminum rail step, so you can position each stirrup exactly where you want it, and the angles of the SR2 complement the overall design of the Tundra. Since the chrome grille shell and rear bumper stuck out like a sore thumb, stripping the chrome and having it painted to match the body turned this Tundra into a red and matte black beauty. What are your thoughts on the modifications so far? Should we have gone with matte black on the grille, left it chrome, or do you think matching the body color created a better look? Let us know in the comments what you think about our changes so far.
For more details on the 2022 Tundra build, check out the video on our Youtube channel!
