I detect some similarities... I retire next summer, was in the same position as you a couple years ago, we share the same year Tacoma, and may have similar modifications. A few more details about your truck would be helpful too, like model, engine, transmission, type of lift, and your current off road tastes.
I hate to break it to you, but you'll be spending a few more dollars mon frer. I got the disease bad, too... getting the IFS swapped for a solid axle starting next Monday.
Go for the bumper. You'll have intact bed capacity and can sport larger tires eventually yielding more off-road handling capability, and minimizing anything that can hang-up off-road from the rear of the truck (departure angle). I haven't heard many positive things about the TireGate from my scanning of the web, nor do I own one for that very reason; plus it robs you of secure carrying capacity.
Now the first corollary of off-roading: each modification results in the need for another modification. If you're going to sport a new rear bumper with carriers I strongly encourage you to add frame reinforcement plates to the rear frame. Just before the arch on the rear of our frames is a notorious weak spot where excess weight and rigors of rough terrain can cause the frame to buckle. The simple addition of those plates will greatly reduce the likelihood of that happening and give you a markedly enhanced ride. The added rigidity, I claim, gives our trucks a "Lexus-like" ride. Your butt-senso-meter may vary.
Now with all that space you can carry more gear! But maybe your springs and shocks might not be up to the task... ask me how I know. Or better yet, for a better description with pictures even, go to this site and spend a couple hours:
http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/ewvehicles/tacoma/index.html There are a lot of options though, and they can range from pretty simple, inexpensive fixes or major upgrades.
Stock curb weight for my truck is around 3,500 lbs. My truck as described below weighs 4,400 lbs. Add my basic load of recovery gear, tools, spares, pioneer kit, fridge and I'm at 4,700 lbs. Add camping gear and depending on duration and location and I'm well over 5,000 lbs. Gasoline weighs in around 6.25 pounds and water at 8.3 pounds per gallon; my point is that weight is the enemy to our trucks.
Please keep us advised and welcome to the community. Portal members are always standing by to help you spend your money!
