Hello All,

I am just starting/learning as I have a 1982 4X4 that needs a full frame up restoration.
Hoping some of the experience people here can answer some basic questions to back up some of my research.

1) Rusty bed. Its seem like there are no bed sides available. I have the standard midline seam rust and am not sure if there are panels I can buy to cut and weld in?
I have been unable to find much at all for this.

2) Tailgate. Is one of these (mine is missing) that hard to find a used replacement for? I have not been able to find one anywhere yet. Usually one comes up in a forum, or eBay, some something, but nothing.
Are these really rare or something? Are there any new replacements that are good? Not sure about fiberglass, but I do see Thailand manufactured tailgates here and there. Not sure on the quality though......

3) Transmission. I have the 4 speed manual (L42?) and wondered about the improvement or drivability of a 5 speed compared to this.
What have people found on the 4 vs 5 speed? Is the replacement an L50 that bolts in to replace?

Thank you all for the assistance.

Mark

 

Not much out there. I think you can find replacement floor pans on ebay. Try https://yodajims.com/ for used parts. https://toyotafiberglass.com/ for fiberglass repop parts.

 

Thanks for those links.

 

if your on FB , check our page out https://www.facebook.com/toyotafiberglass/ customer pictures and feedback may help

 

Also Rockauto is hit or miss on parts.

 

Thanks! Hit or miss how so?
Sometimes they have them, or sometimes they are good or bad quality etc...?

Mark

 

Rockauto quality isn't bad. Sometimes parts are out of stock.