Most likely buying a Taco, need help!

Been thinking all week about buying this Taco:

2007 Toyota Tacoma

"91,000 miles, 5 speed, rwd,
Only thing wrong with it is a few minor body issues that are visible from the pictures and the tire pressure light stays on.
It's mechanically in perfect condition, I've never had any issues with it. Runs great, interior is in good condition as well. Tires have great life left on em. Also has hookup for MP3 players and iPhones."

From talking with the owner he said he hasn't expierenced anything described in any of the TSB's, says it's a solid running truck. Being sold from Cincy, Ohio.

I live in Grand Rapids & Flint in Michigan. The reason this truck appeals to me is it's a small truck, good mileage, manual, reliable, and bed. I race motorcycles so I will be hauling my 500lbs motorcycle, gear, myself, possible another person, and other small things cross country every other weekend or so.

I will have a buddy going with my so I plan to get a HF trailer so I don't get close to the payload of this truck but I had some questions about this as well.

Ideally, I would be able to fit two bikes in the bed, plus a hitch carrier for motorcycle stands and such. Is it possible to complete the AAL mod with two additional leafs? Or AAL and a spring? I'll be modifying the tailgate to support the weight of the motorcycles. I just want to figure out what the best method is for increasing the payload another 600 pounds or so?

I keep reading all this stuff about frame replacement, and it worries me because I have seen Taco's in my area on CL with "Replaced Frames". Are all frames subject to easy rusting?

If there is anything else I should be aware of or know prior to buying, please let me know. I've tried roaming the forum all day in search of information and I have collected what I know.

 

See if you qualify for the extended warranty on the headlights, if the truck has daytime running lights. Also suggest using a trailer for the bikes, use the bed for your other gear. Get a frame-mounted receiver, don't use the bumper. Definitely get a frame inspection.

 

I can't address all of your concerns but air bags could solve your payload worries. I just ordered a set of Firestone ride rites but haven't installed them yet.

Check the frame especially near the cats. Yes, frame rust is a problem with Tacomas.

 

Thanks fellas, originally another buyer beat me to the truck but it fell through! Going to get her tomorrow.

 

Good advise up there.

 

Keep us posted here. I'd like to know how it works out for ya.

 

So this truck is a 5 lug, the title states it's a regular cab 2wd. So this is not the access or prerunner, this is just the regular? I'm driving down saturday for a test drive and purchase.

Pictures of the truck

Got some photos of the frame and underbody in here as well

 

Anyone here that can ballpark how much a starter kit of air bags costs?