Hi Everyone,

I picked up a '91 4WD truck in the fall of last year after wanting a 22RE Toyota for a while. I got it with 91k on the clock and a frame in pretty good shape considering I live in the Northeast. I've done some typical maintenance, new fluids, air filter, spark plugs, etc., added some BFG tires, just replaced the clutch master + slave, and it runs great. Has a bit of an oil leak from one or a couple gaskets although the level is never noticeably lower when I check it. In fact the front of the truck is virtually rust free because of this "self lubricating" feature. It's my daily driver and I use it to commute to work ~5 miles in the winter when I can't ride my motorcycles, and plan to do a bunch of camping trips in it. I haul motorcycles pretty regularly, too. I plan to have this truck for as long as I can and don't mind putting some money in to it.

I have lots of plans for the truck although nothing crazy. Mostly just bringing it back up to shape and to as new - functionally - as possible. Here's my list and I'd be curious to hear what else y'all recommend:

- New shocks front and rear (right now I'm thinking the bilsteins)
- Install a front end kit. I was planning on doing this anyway and coincidentally just starting getting a clunking noise when hitting small bumps over the weekend. Am looking for some input here after seeing various kits that include different parts. What are your suggestions?
- Rear suspension: Somebody before me installed an add-a-leaf kit and the right side one has since snapped. When behind the truck you'll notice that the right side sags a little. Was thinking about either replacing the whole set up with new leaf springs or by installing another add-a-leaf. I've seen leaf spring kits from LCE engineering but they seem more heavy duty than for what I need. Are there any other companies making a quality leaf spring?
- Patch up a few spots of body rust
- Eventually install a new cam chain guide and while I'm in there check the valve clearances
- Remove the bed sometime over the summer, brush down any rust and repair minor rust damage, paint the frame with POR 15.

Of course, some pictures:

 

i assume that's on the kancamagus?

decent looking truck, btw.

 

That's right, Kancamagus. Good eye!

 

Wow your in the same boat as I am, I wanted one of these for so long and finally got one a month or 2 ago. Mines a 1990 and I’m loving having it. I plan to keep this baby forever. I’ve just used woolwax under mine to keep the frame nice. Mine is a regular cab with the 22re. I’m in the northern Ky area so fighting rust will be a job.

 

Welcome!
Nice truck.

 

i’ve spent a lot of time over the last 50 years on the kanc. as did my father and grandfather.

 

Nice truck! Love my ‘91, even with the 3VZE.

 

You might want to think about going through your "to-do" list in the reverse order. Checking valve clearance is regular maintenance; now is better than later. Same with those oil leaks. Your oil is supposed to stay in the engine, not outside, and leaks never get better on their own. I suggest getting some spray-on degreaser and a garden hose. Get your engine sparkling-clean, then run it for however long it takes (it won't take much) for the glistening spot to appear.

Once you get the valves, the leaks, and the creeping rust under control, then you can get to improving the suspension.