Newbie here... I'm starting to shop around for a (used) compact truck and have pretty much decided on a tacoma.

I definitely want an extended cab and 4x4, undecided on engine size. What sorts of things should I look for in evaluating used tacomas? My budget is about $9k, so it seems like I'll be looking for 96-98 or so.

I know the truck is pretty reliable in general (family owns a 18 year old Corolla and I'm kicking myself for not getting a toyota last time I was shopping). Any maintenance I should check to be sure has been done? Recalls?

Any particular options (gear ratios, etc) I should definitely look for? I'll basically be doing some light off roading (mainly forest service roads on the way to fishing and hiking sites) and light hauling (household stuff), no regular towing.

Any pointers? Anything you wish you'd known or looked for?

 

For that kind of budget, you will be hard pressed to get the TRD package offered in 98+ Tacoma's. But, that is what I recommend. I would look for a 98 with the TRD package (rear locker).

Go to www.alldata.com for TSB information. TSB information will give you a heads up on stuff to look for.

I had a 98 Limited TRD V6, and loved it. But, I hate Automatics so I got rid of it. The extra cab was next to worthless for carrying passengers, so keep that in mind.

The only problem I ever had was a leaky water pump at 30K miles. Other than that, awesome truck.

You have to get 3.4L V6. The 4-bangers didnt come in TRD form.

 

Not trying to start an argument, but the TRD option was available on 2.7 liter Tacos. I thought when I bought my 1999 Tacoma the dealer was trying to sell me a 4 cylinder TRD model but I could not remeber for sure. I posted a question over on the Tacoma message board and asked if it was available. One person has a 2001 4 cylinder TRD model. Another interesting fact is you can special order the rear electric locker with out buying the whole TRD package. These trucks are few and far between though....hope this helps.

 

maybe the dealer just slapped on a TRD decal on the rear panels? Before I sold my 2nd gen, I took it to the dealer and wanted to see how much they would give me for it. Well anyways I had 2 TRD decals on the rear windows and when we were discussing what it had and everything, he's said "looks like it has the TRD package.....

 

Found at http://www.autoworld.com/Tacoma98.htm

 

I think you just proved my point.......
ECT would be the auto transmission....so you could get one in 98 with a 2.7liter and a 5 speed?

 

Yeah, that's what I am thinking. They must be rare because I have never seen one.

 

My neighbor has a 98 4cyl 5spd TRD. He just got it a couple months ago from a guy on the internet. I thought it would show up here as a Pre-Runner, but it's a 4wd. Its got the locker, decals, fender flares and 16" 6 spokes.

 

Like I said, I think the dealer was trying to sale me one back in 99 but I can't be for sure. One guy on the TTORA website says he owns a 2001 4cyl TRD.

I went to Toyotas website and built myself a 2003 Tacoma and the TRD option was only available on the V6's.

 

Thanks for the advice!

I picked up a 96 ext cab 4x4 over the weekend. 5spd 2.7l, manual hubs, a/c, shell (which is coming off), etc... Seems to be in great shape (98k miles).

Thinking about installing or having installed a set of Bilsteins.

Really happy with the truck, and will definitely be lurking around here.

 

Looks like i'm a little late. The elecric locker is the coolest thing ever on a stock 4x4.

Does your Taco have a "RR DIFF LOCK" button on the left of the dash?

 

Sweet! Be sure to post some pics when you get it all cleaned up to your liking.