Hello all! Advice for first things to check/fix for a new 2nd gen Taco ?

Hello Taco world. I will officially be a Taco owner in the next few days(always wanted one). I'm wondering what are the first few things I should check on to ensure longevity on my used vehicle? Obviously #1 is spark plugs n filters, for rides sake..shocks /struts, going to clean and protect the frame the best I can..Any other basics I should check over once I get it? I like to jump right into this stuff when I get a vehicle. The one I will should be getting, has 144k mi (2011 TRD 4dr long bed )but was very well taken care of so the frame is really good, in comparison to one I saw with 66k that looked rusted to hell. Can anyone help with first time used 2nd gen taco buyers guide? Will do most things myself, if it's beyond my skills/tools.. I got a guy I trust.

 

Welcome to the forum

When I get a "new to me" I like to change all the fluids & filters (brake & coolant too) if I don't know when they have been done along with grease/lubricate anything that needs it.

A brake (clean & lubricate the sliders) and suspension inspection is a good idea too.

As you do this work you get more familiar with the vehicle and often will find other minor issues to address.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Thanks! I drove it home last night, love it. I already plan on plugs and filters, and will be sure to get those caliper sliders too. Rear shocks are new and front struts are on the way. Leaf springd look like they are still good.

 

Drive shaft has U-joints with zerk fitting to grease.

 

O didn't think of that will do thanks!

 

Haha thanks , just a word I picked in a rush to pick a name on a game once and keep using it because it's not already taken, so I don't end up with Tacoma1574#$ as my name

 

Welcome.

In the stickies.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2nd-gen-diy-maintenance-quick-reference-guide.438945/

Many of the links no longer work but there’s still good info there.

 

Ah! Did a quick look and would've forgot pcv! I'll dive into it later Thanks!

 

Welcome aboard matey

 

Use Fluid Film or similar oily product that creeps to spray inside the frame rails and all around the double thickness channels between axles and near front leaf spring hanger.
Expect to replace the rear driveshaft U-joints, Toyota had a recall and it's common for these to cause vibration
Check all ball joints
See if the rear leaf springs have been replaced under recall, should have 3 + 1 springs under it, called TSB or Technical Service Bulletin springs.
Install Archive Garage Hammer Hangers for a much better reard ride quality and durability off road, stock hangers are super flexible and inhibit rear ride quality way more than you would think
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...rage-2005-2023-tacoma-shackle-hangers.519625/

Eric

 

I changed my plugs and air filter after 200k miles

Change the oil and go

How are the LCAs?
Steering rack and shaft binding?