A Jeep Guy Gets a Tacoma, please help

Been a Jeep guy for a while (1984 CJ-7 with 304, lifted, cage, etc.) and a Lifted 2020 Rubicon (JLR).



As a big fan of manual transmissions, there are only two trucks one that are available in the USA with a manual tranny, the JT and Tacoma. Since FCA are not willing to properly fix the issues with the clutch (e.g., one solution is to de-tune the motor to protect the clutch), the Tacoma was the only choice.

To find the Tacoma with the desired options, the local Toyota dealership had to place a build order for a truck to my specs. Today, the truck came arrived.



Since the truck will being doing a good bit of DD and hauling mnt bikes, kayaks, etc., looking to put a few mild mods (e.g., slightly bigger tires, better shocks, etc.).
Not really going to wheel this thing hard (maybe some fire roads).
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated

 

Here’s the list I covered from several months on here:
1. Redline hood struts
2. CPlay2Air
3. Arm rest tray/organizer
4. Redarc brake controller
5. Seat Jackers
6. Clear bra
7. OEM bed mat
8. OEM bed lights
9. OEM tail gate lock
10. Avid Offroad Sliders
11. Taco Garage DMM
12. ADS Stage 1 @ 1.5”
13. Deaver single AAL
14. 500# Sumo Springs
15. Latchit Rack
16. TRD skid plate

 

Congratulations on the Tacoma, and cool two-door Jeeps! I have a beloved TJ. I did look at the Gladiators and my top decision for a Tacoma was the Access Cab (for a 2019 Off-Road).

I also love a manual, and in fact buying my Tacoma is the fist time that I don't have a manual transmission in my garage. I probably should have did a build to order for an access cab manual, but I took what was on the lot and an access cab with a manual is like a unicorn. (My TJ is an auto with a Derale transmission cooler .)


My TJ, btw.

 

Add more D-rings in the bed (secured in the frame).

Weathertech floor mats (or equivalent).

Prinsu rack (or equivalent).

 

Welcome! I’m debating on getting rid of my JKU myself.

That said. As for mods..... read, read, and read some more.

 

Clutch Accumulator Delete Mod (ADM)

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/mt-accumulator-delete-mod-adm-and-bs-thread.568303/

 

If you don't get a bed mat I would not set foot on the bed.

 

Get the OV tune, makes a massive difference and will help fix the feeling of falling flat on its face when accelerating from a stop.

 

Agreed. First one I did. Stuff stays put now too!

 

This, a better shift knob, and the OEM power tailgate lock, are the only "must haves" on my MT Taco. The rest is gravy.

Ok, some better AT tires, if you plan on spending more than a couple times a month off pavement. The stock tires are "ok" off-road. Definitely highway biased.

 

Air conditioner drain hose mod to protect the frame from rusting.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/air-conditioner-drain-mod.453576/

 

I see you actually offroad haha. Welcome to the club dude.

Honestly, if you're just looking to run fire roads and muddy spots, I'd just pick up some 265 75 16 Duratracs in the flavor of Load C, upgrade the suspension to some 6112/5160's and call it a day.

 

Not sure if it applies to your year / model, but a lot of people have to end up doing the ECGS bushing, driver side front axle needle bearing replacement. There are a couple of links on TW as it is a common problem.

Indicators usually start with vibrations on the front end. I did mine in about 3 hours.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/needle-bearing-failure-with-lift-how-many.486735/

Good luck and have fun with the new Taco.

VR
SRick

 

Get a softopper so u can still have that Jeep feeling .

 

Welcome to TacomaWorld -- Congratulations on the new truck, awesome color choice and 3 pedals too