Hello, I'm new here to these Toyotas and have always wanted one. I am looking to buy a 1996-2000 (preferably 98-00) ish Tacoma and want to know what to look for in these trucks? Ive had many other trucks (GM + Fords) but am going to a Toyota finally. I want a very reliable (Toyota) and some what fuel efficient pick-up 4x4 as well. What are some things to look for on these pickups? (other then the frame rust issue) Which is better for reliability, and all around use 2.7 or 3.4? and or standard or auto? Some off-road, Mostly DD commute and the odd small haul (bikes + sleds). From personal experience what should i go with? Any help appreciated Thanks!

Cant wait to get my first Toyota!

 

the 2.7 and the 3.4 are both good... the 2.7 is probably easier/cheaper to work on and gets better mpg. I think if i were to go with one, i'd pick up a 2.7, 5 speed, ext cab tacoma.

 

I agree with Mak. Best suggestion for what you want would be 2.7L with either transmission. Tranny is more personal preference.

 

2.7 or 3.4 as far as reliability they're about the same if taken care of, 2.7 gets better mpg 3.4 has more hp and torque as far as transmissions the automatic needs a seperate radiator manual the clutch pedal squeeks alot when its cold

 

Okay yea i figured that. No real known things to look for as far as when i look at them? "known failure parts". and ya it will come down to what i can find but will defiantly be 4x4 ext cab. more then likely 5 spd.

 

Your in Canada so id check the frame for rust really well, other than that just normal ware and tear, From my experience (144,000 miles) cv joint boots will probably be torn, steering rack will probably need new bushings, ball joints, timing belt, transfercase seals, and the tps

 

Check the exhaust manifold for 95.5-00 2.7's and check the valve clearance for all 2.7's. The 2.7 has a habit of the exhaust valves getting too tight and either cracking the head or burning the valve.

Other then that you can't go wrong with either engine.

Regarding the transmission options, if you plan on going with larger tires, the automatics can be serious dogs. Especially if you don't regear the differentials. The manual's have a lower 5th gear versus the auto's overdrives.

Oh and, there are plenty of these "what should I look for" threads. You should search next time.

 

Yea tried searching, didn't find anything sorry about that. so it seems the 3.4 standard might be what i want? ill see what i can find. anything else feel free to chime it

 

if you go with the 3.4 you have the option to put a trd supercharger on it later. In case you need more power at some point.

 

Okay so now im stuck between 2 options. around here there are few of these trucks. and the 2 i am looking at now are
1) 99 black tacoma, 4x4, 2.7l - auto, 101xxx miles. limited
2) 99 burgundy tacoma, 4x4, 3.4l, 5 speed, 170xxx miles.
both in excellent shape, and certified and so on. but the 3.4 is $2k more. is the 3.4 worth that much more? how much can i potentially tow with a 2.7? i the 2.7 real lazy? thanks

 

I bought a Taco 2 months ago, I went with the x-cab, 4x4, 3.4, 5spd, e-locker, TRD package, etc. I spent a lot of time figuring out what i wanted before I bought it. I don't regret any decision.

The power of the 3.4 is nice, i get 21mpg by the way.