knox4rner2014
New member
So I have been following the threads in here for several months now and they have really helped me decide on which way to go with my new truck. There are a lot of really fantastic ideas in here, unfortunately my bank account can only go so far right now. I am also one of those guys that wants to see something before I buy it. I have been looking for an Off Road shop in the East Tennessee area that builds stuff other than Jeeps or large Diesel trucks (Just not my thing). I really haven't found a suitable shop that wants to take the time to talk to someone and walk them through the process.
Well yesterday I finally found a place that caters to Toyota enthusiast. I live in Knoxville, TN and happened to be driving back from Chattanooga when I decided to stop by the Toyota dealership in Cleveland TN, about 70 miles south of Knoxville. As I am cruising through the lot, I see several modified Tacoma's, Tundra's, and 4Runners. As I round the corner of the building towards the service department I see a large banner that says see Keith Jackson for all your Toyota 4x4 needs.
After waiting for a few minutes I finally get to sit down and start talking to Mr. Jackson, he abruptly stops me and makes a phone call and ask his head off road mechanic and one of the parts guys to see him in his office. Once everyone has arrived we make our introductions and he states, this individual needs our advice and help. Over the next few hours we talk about what I want to do to my truck, issues that my arise and what would work for me. They take the time to walk me out to several trucks on the lot and show me the lifts sizes and upgrades that they have done and how it would relate to my truck. We discuss suspension, wheels, tires, racks, bumpers and many other upgrades. At no time were they pushy or did I feel that they just wanted to sell me something and get me out the door. The only thing missing was a cold beer in my hand and it would have felt like we were just old buddies discussing mods. Having the ability to walk out and look at other trucks, see their suspensions, bumper and other mods was awesome.
I know its hard to compare this to some of the great shops that I hear you guys talk about on the west coast, but this was a great experience. Apparently these guys want to be the go to guys in this area for Toyota 4x4 needs and if this customer service keeps going I can see that happening. Word of mouth is amazing, I've already told several of my friends about my experience and they are going to see these guys as well.
My mods will be done over time, but I felt really good walking out of there yesterday knowing that I made a good choice. These will be put on next week.
TRD PRO black wheels
BFG 275/70 R17's KO2S
Bilstein 5100's
That will be the start of my builds, but the possibilities are endless.
I'm not sure if there are a lot of guys from East Tennessee in here or not, but if your in this area I would recommend at least talking to these guys.
Well yesterday I finally found a place that caters to Toyota enthusiast. I live in Knoxville, TN and happened to be driving back from Chattanooga when I decided to stop by the Toyota dealership in Cleveland TN, about 70 miles south of Knoxville. As I am cruising through the lot, I see several modified Tacoma's, Tundra's, and 4Runners. As I round the corner of the building towards the service department I see a large banner that says see Keith Jackson for all your Toyota 4x4 needs.
After waiting for a few minutes I finally get to sit down and start talking to Mr. Jackson, he abruptly stops me and makes a phone call and ask his head off road mechanic and one of the parts guys to see him in his office. Once everyone has arrived we make our introductions and he states, this individual needs our advice and help. Over the next few hours we talk about what I want to do to my truck, issues that my arise and what would work for me. They take the time to walk me out to several trucks on the lot and show me the lifts sizes and upgrades that they have done and how it would relate to my truck. We discuss suspension, wheels, tires, racks, bumpers and many other upgrades. At no time were they pushy or did I feel that they just wanted to sell me something and get me out the door. The only thing missing was a cold beer in my hand and it would have felt like we were just old buddies discussing mods. Having the ability to walk out and look at other trucks, see their suspensions, bumper and other mods was awesome.
I know its hard to compare this to some of the great shops that I hear you guys talk about on the west coast, but this was a great experience. Apparently these guys want to be the go to guys in this area for Toyota 4x4 needs and if this customer service keeps going I can see that happening. Word of mouth is amazing, I've already told several of my friends about my experience and they are going to see these guys as well.
My mods will be done over time, but I felt really good walking out of there yesterday knowing that I made a good choice. These will be put on next week.
TRD PRO black wheels
BFG 275/70 R17's KO2S
Bilstein 5100's
That will be the start of my builds, but the possibilities are endless.
I'm not sure if there are a lot of guys from East Tennessee in here or not, but if your in this area I would recommend at least talking to these guys.
