This unique truck appeared parked by the beach in town one day. With the owner absent, I took a photo and posted it on Instagram. It quickly gained 29,000 views – my most popular post at the time.
Months later, the truck reappeared, and I met its owner, Andy Diemer. A house painter by trade, he travels the country in his distinctive 1986 Tacoma Turbo 4×4.
Andy calls the truck a powerful magnet. Wherever he parks, it attracts crowds. Returning from grocery shopping, he often finds people gathered around it, prompting him to hand out his painting business cards.
He notes that women universally love the plants affixed securely to the truck during travel.
“Without me looking for a tribe; they find me.”
Andy sustains himself by working four months to fund a year of travel.
At first glance, it might not be obvious, but the truck is immaculate. Andy continuously builds and improves it. This specific model, rare among Tacoma enthusiasts, features a sought-after turbocharged 2.4L 22R-E engine.
The cozy upper-level camper shell provides a sleeping nook with windows on three sides, creating the feeling of sleeping outdoors while staying dry.
“The universe had me build this.”
Every item inside is carefully arranged and neatly placed, featuring stained bamboo detailing. An old Laird Hamilton stand-up surfboard tops it off.