Taco fever is real

Guys, I've got some serious Tacoma fever. I test drove a super nice 2000 SR5 4wd 2.7, 5 speed with 260k on it the other day and I can't quit thinking about it. It has helped me really think about what I want in a truck. I enjoyed the 5 speed and like the mileage benefit combined with the power advantage. Gearing was fine with 3.91 with 225/75r15's. No problem going up hills in 4th at 65mph. But since I'd like to jump to maybe a 29-31" diameter tire a 4.10-4.30 might be preferred. This will be a daily driver and I currently have a 25 mile commute. I'd like to keep my MPG in the 20's so I think I need to keep with middle of the road gearing.

Must haves are: 4wd, 5 speed, a/c, clean, xcab or regular cab, rust free

Preferences: 4 cyl, manual hubs, locking diff, 3.91 or lower gears, pwr locks & win, close to stock condition, silver or desert sand

I'm check Craigslist every day now hoping that the right truck will come along. I don't know that I'm willing to pay over NADA retail, but it seems that many of these trucks are priced higher than that. When it comes right down to it, I'd be willing to pay a bit more for one that meets my must have's and most of my preferences.

 

Are you asking a question?

 

4cyl Tacomas with a factory rear diff locker are rare. The 4cyl TRD models (also rare) did not come with rear lockers from the factory.

I believe that you could always have one added as an option if you ordered it that way, I know the locker was an option before TRD was a thing. Anyhow, good luck finding one...more than likely you'll have to get one with an open diff and add your own locker after the fact.

Why not a v6? The 3.4l is a proven motor, arguably as reliable as the 2.7. The 3.0 v6 (Toyota's first pickup v6) was the awful one. They got it right with the 3.4l.

 

Not really. Just making a statement.

 

Solid statement, looks like you've got your research done and know what you want. Good luck in the hunt!

 

Thanks for the info about the locker. Same old reasons to get the 4cyl. It's a bit more important to me to have less maintenance, a bit more MPG and a bit easier to work on. I'd get the V6 if the right one came along.

I may have found another 2000 to look at. 1 owner dealer maintained FS by original owner. He's sending photos of undercarriage tonight. No locker and no manual hubs, but trucks looking excellent so far.

 

I gotta say the extra power is nice to have with the v6. Don't throw them out till you've driven one.

 

Thanks. I hope so. Of course sometimes we find that we think we want one thing only to learn we want something a tad bit different.

 

I haven't. It's not on my "must have" list.

 

If it were me I'd look at one just to see what you think of it. I know I would hate to get something I really wanted only to later learn I wish I had something else. It is easier to find the TRD package with the v6, and it will cover all of your preferences excluding the manual hubs. Is is just the simplicity of them that turns you away from the ADD?

 

V6 is just as easy to work on . Probably easier seems things are placed a lot better than the 4 banger

 

Yep, I like being able to totally disconnect the front axles. I do have an appreciation for being able to put it in 4 low and go too. I'll research the ADD system a bit to make sure I don't need to run from it.

I've owned a 4 cyl 86 S-10(2wd) and a 87 Mazda 4wd and I was happy with both of them. After driving the 2.7 the other day, I know I'll be happy with it as long as its geared OK. I do realize I'll end up limiting my tire size based on the gearing of prospect truck. I thought the 2.7 I drove the other day was good with 3.91 and 225/75r15(27" tires). I'm hoping the truck I look at tomorrow is 4.10-4.30 so I can go up to 31's.

 

if it has 4.10's it came with 31's. (or metric equiv. on 16" wheels)
Toyota kind of keeps final drive in the same ball park.

Yes, it gets complicated, 4 cyl. vs. 6. Manual vs. auto. Trd vs. non, etc. But really they aim for the same final dr. ratio. You'll find prob. the BEST all around wheel size is already on the truck.

I HATE to open this can of worms but.....if you really want over 20mpg, stay with the 4 cyl.

there are prob. 100 threads on this board with people asking what everyone else gets for mileage.

Just read them and make up your mind what YOU want.

It's already documented peeps...no need to post on here what your getting.

 

This was great! Would've been even funnier if it said "more TACO-BELL"

 

They do make 4 cylinder TRD with rear locking diff. I have a 2002. It also came with 4.30 gearing from factory and 5 speed.

 

3.4L easy to work on, engines last forever (or at least a hell of a long time), extra power is nice/noticeable. MPG 15-17.5 streets, 19-21 all highway. This is with 265/75/16s and supercharger. YMMV

 

I really appreciate the variety of responses. I've already started another thread on the new prospect truck. Glad to see a few peeps appreciate the 4 banger.

 

Mine would be perfect if it were 4 cyl.......it sucks gas like a 3/4T. Chevy.

 

Yes it is and burns a serious hole in my wallet!

 

I don't drive mine unless I have to. Have a 1/2T Chevy that is much better on gas.
Not knocking Toyota, I love the truck. gas mileage is bad.