K&N intake install and impressions

I Cut Off My Hitch/Crossmember! New Rear Bumper Coming Soon From Backwoods

rustytaco · 2026-03-17T06:24:23+00:00

So... I wasn't originally going to take it this far, but things happen, lol. I had the chance to go down to work with the Backwoods guys on a new project they're about to wrap up for the 4th Gens - rear bumpers. This is technically a bolt-on option, however, you have the option of cutting your hitch/crossmember off to gain a few more inches of clearance. Around 4" if I remember correctly. That's quite a lot of clearance. If you've taken your truck off-road, you might already know the departure angle isn't the best and the low hanging hitch literally drags on everything. When I first heard about the frame modification, without a high clearance bed portion (meaning cutting the end of the bed for a true "high-clearance rear), I wasn't quite sure if it was the move. But once I saw the final prototype on the Backwoods truck, and how much I would gain, I decided to make the jump. And I'm real glad I did. The final result is super clean and the rear end is starting to see some big improvements. And if you're wondering, yes, you still get a hitch receiver. It's under the license plate (I need to get a spring loaded bracket). So you're still able to tow. The bumper with all the reinforcements and frame contact points is definitely as strong, if not stronger than the OEM member. A swing out option is tentatively planned for the future, but ETA is still TBD. https://backwoodsadventuremods.com/ No direct link quite yet, but you can sign up for their email list to get notified when they're ready to purchase. The rough estimate is summer/fall. A quick shot from my trip back home through Missouri...

TanyaTacoma

New member

Nov 6, 2024

Hey guys, just threw in a new K&N intake on this puppy! Super easy install and sounds amazing with the turbo spool! Got mine from the YotaGarage and it did take a little while to come in but was well worth it!