The 10 Year Commitment

[JCMatthews]

To throw something else in to the mix. How about an '05 or '06 DC Tundra? The back seat is huge and comfortable. The 4.7 is more than adequate in power to weight. In '05 they got a 5 speed automatic, and engine power boosted. Their mileage is not really any different than the Tacoma. With careful driving I get between 17 and 18.5 mpg. With a 2 1/2" lift, 33's are achievable. Mine has been up Engineer without any trouble and all I have done is level the front end using Bilstein 5100s. The after market is not too supportive, however an ARB bull bar can be mounted with slight modifications to the mounts, sliders are available There are also some lifts out there for them depending on what you want to do with it. As a daily driver, family hauler, back country explorer, they work very well. Oh, and sleeping in the bed is very doable. Mine is not set up well however take a look at this thread and see what is possible.

http://www.expeditionportal.com/for...rds-Go!-Picture-Thread-for-Tundras-and-T-100s

 

[Saguache]

So I'm a whole lot closer to a decision. Been looking at the options, cost of ownership, availability of parts, easy of working on any particular vehicle, and of course many other factors and I think I'm going to go with a 2000-ish (Gen 1) Taco Crew Cab. The price is certainly right and they hold their value which is just peachy with me. I was talking to my wife for a while about the various pros and cons of any particular choice and I believe when I got to "separate compartment for the dogs" she was a whole lot closer to being on board (they shed like mad).

This also means that I have some of what I'm going to need on hand. That I'm really looking forward to as well. The build plan looks something like this:

1. Find and buy truck: I have a lead right now and of course will be looking for more.
2. Buy a topper (probably Lear): Here I've got some serious option paralysis because there are just so many damn fiber glass toppers. I'd prefer something with a bit of a rise above the cab to it, but haven't really found this for the shorter bed.
3. Mount AutoHome Maggiollina Grand Tour on topper: The Magg is going over the rear of the truck I'm thinking.
4. Build drawer system for bed: Right now I'm envisioning a drawer system that come up about 3/4ers of the bed height split either down the middle or in thirds. One side will be a kitchen. It will have storage for AUX battery, IBS power distro system, a water tank, rolling tools, and the ladder and crank arm for the Magg. Above that will be loose storage and dog beds.
5. OEM Lift: Front will be coil overs and rear the springs. Not sure which kit I'll go with. Advice is welcome.
6. New rims and 255/76,16 BFGs: Like em narrow and tall, plus the BFG ATs are the best IMO
7. Potentially paint: Thinking maybe an arctic grey for the whole thing.
8. Front and rear bumpers: ARB for the front, maybe with winch. Rear not sure about yet, but it will be off so I might as well. Also, would like to hang the spare on a swing out arm off the new rear bumper I think.
9. Gear rack over cabin: Maybe add light bar and locked fuel cans
10. Cabin modifications: Add reading lamps, iPhone compatible stereo, navigation system, blah blah blah

 

[p nut]

Since you're one state over from me, I thought I'd post this up. No affiliation with the seller, but thought it was a fair deal.

http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/268379

 

[Adventure IQ]

Not sure its the need to own bug...its the need to be creative and see the creativity to a point.....once to a point you are ready to move on. In my line of work, I see this in some of our engineers talking about guys here who are inventing the next generation of memory). You just need projects that involve other people's money and projects....then when bored you can move on....but still see your success....

 

[Adventure IQ]

Btw...in same toss up and leaning toward same tacoma

 

[Saguache]

Since you're one state over from me, I thought I'd post this up. No affiliation with the seller, but thought it was a fair deal.

http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/268379

Thanks P Nut,

Looks like a good deal, I'll give them a call.

 

[Saguache]

Not sure its the need to own bug...its the need to be creative and see the creativity to a point.....once to a point you are ready to move on. In my line of work, I see this in some of our engineers talking about guys here who are inventing the next generation of memory). You just need projects that involve other people's money and projects....then when bored you can move on....but still see your success....

Yep PakRatt, Its not a need to own. And oddly enough, I was an engineer.

 

[Martinjmpr]

So I'm a whole lot closer to a decision. Been looking at the options, cost of ownership, availability of parts, easy of working on any particular vehicle, and of course many other factors and I think I'm going to go with a 2000-ish (Gen 1) Taco Crew Cab. The price is certainly right and they hold their value which is just peachy with me.

Just FYI the first year for the Double Cab (as Toyota calls it) was 2001.

Make sure you factor in a way to carry extra gas. With the setup you're describing, you'll have a difficult time beating 16mpg (all that weight on the roof and elsewhere.) You might manage 20 on the highway if you take it really easy but I'd be surprised. With the 1st gen Taco's 18.5 gallon tank you're looking at a max range of 300 miles and a realistic cruising range of about 200-250. On my 4runner (which was equipped with the same 3.4/auto/4wd you'd be looking at) my low fuel light normally went on around 210 miles after filling up. In the city during winter it would sometimes come on at 185.

Also check CL for toppers. If you can live without a color-matched topper (or if you are planning on having the whole thing painted anyway) you can save a LOT of money by buying used. A topper that sells for $1500 new can often be found, lightly used, for $500 or less.

Doesn't look like you're planning to pull a trailer any distance, which I think is smart - I got rid of my 3rd gen 4runner because I found the 3.4/auto combination to be a very poor towing platform for our 1200 lb Teardrop. Driving across Wyoming into a headwind, even keeping my speed down to 55mph on I-80 my MPG plummeted to 10-11 and my trans temp would constantly exceed 200f, and that's WITH a transmission cooler. You will probably want to factor in an aftermarket tranny cooler with that setup as well (IMO it's cheap insurance anyway - plumb it so it bypasses the in-radiator cooler and you will avoid the chance of the dreaded "Pink milkshake" transmission failure.)

 

[Martinjmpr]

Having said all the above, IMO the 1st gen DC Tacos are a bit overpriced on the used market. I've seen them advertised for $15 - $16k, which is close to the price of a 2nd gen DC. Having experienced both the 3.4 and the 4.0, I can tell you the 4.0 is an awesome motor. No timing belt, either, which saves you a bit of money.

Before you jump on one of the dwindling supply of 1st gen (2001-2004) DCs, you might want to at least drive a 2nd gen (2005 up) model. I don't know what transmission those came with but I presume the auto is the same A740 5 speed I have in my 4runner, which is an awesome combination. I have to say, going from a 3rd gen 4runner to a 4th, I was pretty impressed to get into a vehicle that is longer, wider, heavier, much more powerful - and actually gets better MPG! So at least give the older 2nd gens a look if you can.

 

[Dave Bennett]

Guess I got that mixed up. I was thinking that the trucks Toyota made prior to 1995 were G1 Tacomas. So what generation would you call this?

View attachment 140232

Its labeled as a 1981 Toyota Tacoma Trekker (truck predecessor to the 4Runner).

The "B4Runner", based on a Hilux. Hilux was predated by the Stout.

There are currently 2 Gens of Tacoma

 

[brushogger]

So I'm a whole lot closer to a decision. Been looking at the options, cost of ownership, availability of parts, easy of working on any particular vehicle, and of course many other factors and I think I'm going to go with a 2000-ish (Gen 1) Taco Crew Cab. The price is certainly right and they hold their value which is just peachy with me. I was talking to my wife for a while about the various pros and cons of any particular choice and I believe when I got to "separate compartment for the dogs" she was a whole lot closer to being on board (they shed like mad).

This also means that I have some of what I'm going to need on hand. That I'm really looking forward to as well. The build plan looks something like this:

1. Find and buy truck: I have a lead right now and of course will be looking for more.
2. Buy a topper (probably Lear): Here I've got some serious option paralysis because there are just so many damn fiber glass toppers. I'd prefer something with a bit of a rise above the cab to it, but haven't really found this for the shorter bed.
3. Mount AutoHome Maggiollina Grand Tour on topper: The Magg is going over the rear of the truck I'm thinking.
4. Build drawer system for bed: Right now I'm envisioning a drawer system that come up about 3/4ers of the bed height split either down the middle or in thirds. One side will be a kitchen. It will have storage for AUX battery, IBS power distro system, a water tank, rolling tools, and the ladder and crank arm for the Magg. Above that will be loose storage and dog beds.
5. OEM Lift: Front will be coil overs and rear the springs. Not sure which kit I'll go with. Advice is welcome.
6. New rims and 255/76,16 BFGs: Like em narrow and tall, plus the BFG ATs are the best IMO
7. Potentially paint: Thinking maybe an arctic grey for the whole thing.
8. Front and rear bumpers: ARB for the front, maybe with winch. Rear not sure about yet, but it will be off so I might as well. Also, would like to hang the spare on a swing out arm off the new rear bumper I think.
9. Gear rack over cabin: Maybe add light bar and locked fuel cans
10. Cabin modifications: Add reading lamps, iPhone compatible stereo, navigation system, blah blah blah

I own an FJ and it's great for two people but no more with gear. PM Austintaco for some pics of his taco with a flippac shell. It's perfect for what you are wanting. Really cool truck. He said he can have it completely set up in 2 min.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Saguache]

Just FYI the first year for the Double Cab (as Toyota calls it) was 2001.

Make sure you factor in a way to carry extra gas. With the setup you're describing, you'll have a difficult time beating 16mpg (all that weight on the roof and elsewhere.) You might manage 20 on the highway if you take it really easy but I'd be surprised. With the 1st gen Taco's 18.5 gallon tank you're looking at a max range of 300 miles and a realistic cruising range of about 200-250. On my 4runner (which was equipped with the same 3.4/auto/4wd you'd be looking at) my low fuel light normally went on around 210 miles after filling up. In the city during winter it would sometimes come on at 185.

With my 1995 4Runner I generally got about 200 minimum with highway driving. Although back then I could easily take out things like seats that I didn't need. On average I was getting 22 to 24 MPG, but I'll certainly keep that in mind and thanks for the heads up.

Also check CL for toppers. If you can live without a color-matched topper (or if you are planning on having the whole thing painted anyway) you can save a LOT of money by buying used. A topper that sells for $1500 new can often be found, lightly used, for $500 or less.

Oh you bet! I'm all about a bargain when it doesn't reduce the thing you're looking for. CL is generally a mixed bag, but its always good to keep your eyes peeled and your ears to the earth.

Doesn't look like you're planning to pull a trailer any distance, which I think is smart - I got rid of my 3rd gen 4runner because I found the 3.4/auto combination to be a very poor towing platform for our 1200 lb Teardrop. Driving across Wyoming into a headwind, even keeping my speed down to 55mph on I-80 my MPG plummeted to 10-11 and my trans temp would constantly exceed 200f, and that's WITH a transmission cooler. You will probably want to factor in an aftermarket tranny cooler with that setup as well (IMO it's cheap insurance anyway - plumb it so it bypasses the in-radiator cooler and you will avoid the chance of the dreaded "Pink milkshake" transmission failure.)

Not so much, I tried this a couple of times with my old 4Runner and ended up having to replace the heads eventually. Just not worth it in my opinion, besides I'm rubbish at backing a trailer; I suppose I'd need dues and a half to make an honest go of it. I'm pretty sure I can get everything I need for an extended period of time into the bed and cargo racks of a Gen 1.

Having said all the above, IMO the 1st gen DC Tacos are a bit overpriced on the used market. I've seen them advertised for $15 - $16k, which is close to the price of a 2nd gen DC. Having experienced both the 3.4 and the 4.0, I can tell you the 4.0 is an awesome motor. No timing belt, either, which saves you a bit of money.

I've got two potential TRDs lined up already for $13K which is right in line with their NADA evaluation. I will bargain with the sellers as well. That said, I'm doing my best to think of the price as the Gen 1 holding its value.

Before you jump on one of the dwindling supply of 1st gen (2001-2004) DCs, you might want to at least drive a 2nd gen (2005 up) model. I don't know what transmission those came with but I presume the auto is the same A740 5 speed I have in my 4runner, which is an awesome combination. I have to say, going from a 3rd gen 4runner to a 4th, I was pretty impressed to get into a vehicle that is longer, wider, heavier, much more powerful - and actually gets better MPG! So at least give the older 2nd gens a look if you can.

I'll take your advice and look more closely at the Gen 2. It can't hurt to test drive one for sure and who knows I might be won over. Those flared sides however, its going to take a lot of winning over.

Thanks again Martinjmpr (and everyone else)!

 

[Saguache]

I own an FJ and it's great for two people but no more with gear. PM Austintaco for some pics of his taco with a flippac shell. It's perfect for what you are wanting. Really cool truck. He said he can have it completely set up in 2 min.

Ok that's just darn cool! I'm going to call flip pack tomorrow

 

[skrillah]

Just FYI the first year for the Double Cab (as Toyota calls it) was 2001.

Make sure you factor in a way to carry extra gas. With the setup you're describing, you'll have a difficult time beating 16mpg (all that weight on the roof and elsewhere.) You might manage 20 on the highway if you take it really easy but I'd be surprised. With the 1st gen Taco's 18.5 gallon tank you're looking at a max range of 300 miles and a realistic cruising range of about 200-250. On my 4runner (which was equipped with the same 3.4/auto/4wd you'd be looking at) my low fuel light normally went on around 210 miles after filling up. In the city during winter it would sometimes come on at 185.

Also check CL for toppers. If you can live without a color-matched topper (or if you are planning on having the whole thing painted anyway) you can save a LOT of money by buying used. A topper that sells for $1500 new can often be found, lightly used, for $500 or less.

Doesn't look like you're planning to pull a trailer any distance, which I think is smart - I got rid of my 3rd gen 4runner because I found the 3.4/auto combination to be a very poor towing platform for our 1200 lb Teardrop. Driving across Wyoming into a headwind, even keeping my speed down to 55mph on I-80 my MPG plummeted to 10-11 and my trans temp would constantly exceed 200f, and that's WITH a transmission cooler. You will probably want to factor in an aftermarket tranny cooler with that setup as well (IMO it's cheap insurance anyway - plumb it so it bypasses the in-radiator cooler and you will avoid the chance of the dreaded "Pink milkshake" transmission failure.)

Hey Martin,

Do you have more information on the bypassing of that in-radiator cooler...

I'm getting ready to install a tranny cooler on my '04 Taco and would like to do it "right" the first time.



In regards to this thread, I do agree looking at the Gen 2 would be beneficial for power and performance. Though, I will argue that the Gen 1 Tacos are very stout with good motors (3.4) and in my opinion are built better than the Gen 2's. I've seen this to be true when comparing my '04 to my buddies '05 Taco TRD Sport. Just too much plastic on the newer ones, and the price point is a bit ridiculous. In my area, a decent loaded out 100k mile '05-up Taco still fetches at least $20k, for that price, you might as well spend another $10k and get a new one! The Gen 1s, while still a bit pricey are least closer to their Nada/KBB/Edmunds book values.

 

[Martinjmpr]

[/B]

Hey Martin,

Do you have more information on the bypassing of that in-radiator cooler...

I'm getting ready to install a tranny cooler on my '04 Taco and would like to do it "right" the first time.

I didn't actually do the install myself but my understanding is that it's a pretty simple procedure. Just disconnect the in/out hoses from the tranny that go to the stock cooler and attach them to the aftermarket cooler, and zip tie the whole thing in. I guess you could plug the now-empty holes in the factory cooler just to keep water out.

In regards to this thread, I do agree looking at the Gen 2 would be beneficial for power and performance. Though, I will argue that the Gen 1 Tacos are very stout with good motors (3.4) and in my opinion are built better than the Gen 2's. I've seen this to be true when comparing my '04 to my buddies '05 Taco TRD Sport. Just too much plastic on the newer ones, and the price point is a bit ridiculous. In my area, a decent loaded out 100k mile '05-up Taco still fetches at least $20k, for that price, you might as well spend another $10k and get a new one! The Gen 1s, while still a bit pricey are least closer to their Nada/KBB/Edmunds book values.

The 3.4 is robust and reliable, certainly. Power output is another matter, especially when hooked up to a slushbox. I would defy anybody to drive a 4.0 equipped vehicle and then go back to a 3.4.

Can't speak for the build quality of 05+ Tacos, my '04 was pretty nice but even that seemed to have some "cut corners." My 4runner is amazingly well built, very happy with it.