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Prioritizing mods

Discussion in 'Performance and Tuning' started by sawdust, Oct 23, 2007.

  1. Oct 23, 2007 at 3:28 PM
    #1
    sawdust

    sawdust [OP] Unapologetic Texan

    Joined:
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    Frisco, TX
    Vehicle:
    07 TRD Offroad Radiant Red V6 Auto DC
    Homelink mirror, tailgate lock, 2ndary air filter removal, Access LE tonneau, Bugflector II, hitch-based bed extender, vent visors, suspension TSB, stall mat
    Off on another thread we got talking about tires, how bad they are, and when to change them, but I want to generalize that idea. I see three basic categories, but maybe there's more.

    1. The things worth doing when the truck is brand new (tonneau for example)
    2. The things to wait until warranty is out (removing secondary air filter, for example)
    3. The things to do when a wear part needs replacing (upgraded tires, for example)

    Obviously, some people's driving habits and risk aversion may change what category a mod might fit in. Somebody who off-road's every weekend will probably want better tires even before the stock ones wear. Someone who's confident in pushing for warranty work might not wait to remove the secondary air filter.

    I know this isn't a shy crowd, so chime in. When have you done what mods, why at that point, and how did your driving/risk habits affect the choice?
     
  2. Oct 23, 2007 at 4:38 PM
    #2
    tacomaman06

    tacomaman06 Carolina Alliance: Enforcer

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    Will
    York,South Carolina
    Vehicle:
    '16 Tundra TRD Pro
    getting there....
    ok, right off the go, i installed= bug guard, vent visors,tool box,and nerf bars. kinda necessities,especially the nerf bars, which i got basically for the wifey. and i had to have the tool box.

    i replaced the stock bfg rugged trail pos tires at 22k miles(now @ 25k),because they were worn out. and they hydroplaned like hell. i could have gotten maybe another 5k outta them, and had i known we were gonna have a bad ass drought this complete summer, i probably would have kept them a little longer.

    earlier on though, i removed the sec. air filter, installed a airaid intake(this was around 10k miles,for a little better mileage. and around 18k miles, i installed my dual exhaust(which im getting ready to get rid of and go with a single in/out flow 40)........and i did it all for that flowmaster sound.

    another mod i did was installing a maglite flashlight and brackets on the bottom of my seat......never know when you are gonna need one. also, i installed an aries bullbar(for aesthetics:D), and put some hella 500's on there........great for those really dark back roads to some hunting land.

    at 20k miles, i switched over to synthetic oil, and diff oil, as its just better than dino,imo.

    as of now, thats about it for mods.
     
  3. Oct 23, 2007 at 8:44 PM
    #3
    sawdust

    sawdust [OP] Unapologetic Texan

    Joined:
    Sep 25, 2007
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    1,284
    Frisco, TX
    Vehicle:
    07 TRD Offroad Radiant Red V6 Auto DC
    Homelink mirror, tailgate lock, 2ndary air filter removal, Access LE tonneau, Bugflector II, hitch-based bed extender, vent visors, suspension TSB, stall mat
    Great! Most all of those make perfect sense to me, but there's a couple I'd like to get more info on.

    Are you happy with the airaid? Any concerns about warranty hassles since you did it so soon?

    Why switch to synth oil so late? I was planning to do it at my first oil change, 5K miles.
     
  4. Oct 24, 2007 at 10:17 AM
    #4
    nd

    nd Radical Town. It's a hell of a place!

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    Nate
    Greenville, SC
    Vehicle:
    07 TRD Off-Road 4x4 debadged
    De badged, 5100's, Black Toyota Baja wheels
    I switched to mobil 1 full synthetic at my first oil change. As far as tires go, i am doing nothing to help maintain wear. I dont care if my truck is out of alignment and i refuse to rotate them. IMO, the sooner they wear out the sooner i can get some good ones.

    When my warranty is up i will remove the secondary filter. When its time to replace my air filter i will replace it with a performance drop in, but i'm gonna wait until i have to replace it anyway. I really want a lift but thats another thing i may wait for due to warranty issues. i dont want to lift it then have them come out with a TSB for the vibration and then when i take it in they wont touch it due to my lift. When its time for a new muffler i will replace it with performance and probably full exhaust system.

    This is a list of things i would like to do while i am still in warranty..... full brush guard with lights. upgrade tires and rims. If i get a bonus or a big enough tax return i want a winch. Possibly the frame mounted reverse lights that PB did. Black mesh grille. paint badging black. There's probably some more stuff i'm forgetting but thats all i have for right now. i want to do the asthetic stuff while its under warranty, then mess with the mechanical stuff after the warranty.
     
  5. Oct 24, 2007 at 11:05 AM
    #5
    Hotdog

    Hotdog My hair is all natural Moderator

    Joined:
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    #872
    Messages:
    10,245
    First Name:
    Hotdog
    Vehicle:
    2007 PreRunner SR5 Double Cab
    Wet Okole Underwear
    Here's my order...
    Pop-n-Lock Tailgate lock
    Rubber Bed Mat
    Fumoto Drain valve (Not installed yet)
    C2C Hood Struts
    DashHawk Code Reader-Helps me get a good baseline for acceleration
    URD MAF Calibrator (Not installed yet)
    URD TCAI (Not installed yet)

    I'm currently fabricating a setup for my bike rack. I'm going to have my yakima racks over the bed.

    Next Upgrades...
    WeatherTech Floor Mats
    Stereo
    Synthetic Oil
    Grillcraft Grill
     
  6. Oct 24, 2007 at 11:18 AM
    #6
    Janster

    Janster Old & Forgetful

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    Jandy
    Lancaster, PA
    Vehicle:
    2016 GMC Canyon SLT w/ LineX and....
    It all depends on what you do with your truck.....and of course, everything else in your life that may take higher priority when funds are available.

    Without going into details - my tacoma is my daily driver and mulch hauling truck. I'm getting older (and senile :p) so creature comforts, gas improving mods, and stuff to keep the truck 'new' are highest priority at this stage in my life. Just bought the truck in March 07 and I've put soft tonneau cover, pop-n-lock, Husky floor mats, seat covers, ipod interface, homelink mirror, bed mat, and Garmin GPS. Most everything I have so far has a purpose for what my husband and I use the truck for....

    For the future - still waiting for hood struts and next oil change gets a Fumoto drain valve.

    Definately in the future: Scangauge II

    Dream List: Heated seats, heated mirrors, catback exhaust, rocksliders/side steps and the list goes on....... I mild lift and wider tires would be cool someday.

    First oil change got Mobile 1 synthetic. Tires haven't been rotated yet as I'll do that at next oil change or earlier (if I get in the mood to do it sooner). I want to remove the secondary air filter and atleast try it out - but I also want to make sure I can put it back in when needed.
     
  7. Oct 24, 2007 at 3:55 PM
    #7
    tacomaman06

    tacomaman06 Carolina Alliance: Enforcer

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    Will
    York,South Carolina
    Vehicle:
    '16 Tundra TRD Pro
    getting there....

    im happy with my airaid. i gained a tad better mileage with it, maybe a bit more power(haha,i do romp on it alot since i have my exhaust and intake:D)
    and im not really worried about warranty, as in when i clean the filter i never over oil it. and if i have to take it back off and put the stock box back on, it only takes a few minutes......not too bad. when i removed my sec. air filter......i could only tell a little difference, mainly, the truck idled a little smoother.

    the only reason i switched to synthetic "so late" was because i was goin for the "free tires for life" at the stealership, which meant i had to get my oil changed there, then i realized how shitty the rugged trail tires were, i started doing everything myself(like i always have otherwise). thats about the only reason i waited as long as i did.

    i dont blame ya for going ahead and switching to synthetic now...........you engine will thank you later:)!!!
     
  8. Oct 25, 2007 at 7:57 AM
    #8
    sawdust

    sawdust [OP] Unapologetic Texan

    Joined:
    Sep 25, 2007
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    1,284
    Frisco, TX
    Vehicle:
    07 TRD Offroad Radiant Red V6 Auto DC
    Homelink mirror, tailgate lock, 2ndary air filter removal, Access LE tonneau, Bugflector II, hitch-based bed extender, vent visors, suspension TSB, stall mat
    I got some sort of VIP service package when I bought the truck. I'm still not sure I understand what all that entails (if anyone knows, speak up or else I'm going to have to call my salesman), but my first oil change is free at the dealership (actually the oil changes are free for life as long as I pay them to do the other scheduled maintenance). I assume I could pay the difference to get synthetic. Was that not your experience?
     
  9. Oct 25, 2007 at 4:14 PM
    #9
    tacomaman06

    tacomaman06 Carolina Alliance: Enforcer

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    Will
    York,South Carolina
    Vehicle:
    '16 Tundra TRD Pro
    getting there....
    i didnt even ask them about synthetic.....but i knew it would cost alot more if they were to do it, as opposed to me doing the service myself. plus i've always done my own work on my vehicles, and i like doing it myself, so that was a plus. not exactly sure what the "vip"service package is, but im always skeptical about what dealerships do anyway.........just sounds like bs to me, but thats just my .02.
     
  10. Nov 1, 2007 at 8:13 AM
    #10
    m3dragon

    m3dragon Well-Known Member

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    Sacramento
    You can do whatever you want to your car before warranty is up and it WILL NOT VOID warranty. There is a federal law that protects us from this. The dealer has to show any part you install caused "said issue"

    So Supercharge the thing if you like while under warrenty.

    Upgrades to do:

    CAI
    Exhaust
    Pulleys (whenever we can find them or make them)

    Bonus:
    Software (if we can ever find anyone that makes it for us)
    Lighter weight rims (less unsprung weight and more MPG)
    Wider Tires (negates the above option but provides more grip)
    Stainless lines
    Super Blue / gold fluid
    Electric Fan
    Headers
     
  11. Nov 1, 2007 at 11:32 AM
    #11
    sawdust

    sawdust [OP] Unapologetic Texan

    Joined:
    Sep 25, 2007
    Member:
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    Messages:
    1,284
    Frisco, TX
    Vehicle:
    07 TRD Offroad Radiant Red V6 Auto DC
    Homelink mirror, tailgate lock, 2ndary air filter removal, Access LE tonneau, Bugflector II, hitch-based bed extender, vent visors, suspension TSB, stall mat
    I didn't mean to suggest that doing anything under the hood would void warranty (some things might though). I was mostly talking about someone's appetite for hassle. Just because it doesn't legally void the warranty, that doesn't stop the dealership from being a hassle in some cases.

    edit: I forgot to ask about the CAI that you listed as number 1. My understanding is that the Tacoma has a pretty good stock intake to begin with since it is pulling air from under the fender. Does an aftermarket one really get the best bang for the buck as far as mods go?
     
  12. Nov 1, 2007 at 11:51 AM
    #12
    m3dragon

    m3dragon Well-Known Member

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    Sacramento
    The dealer can learn their role and understand some of us mod for performance. I would not discourage people from modding just because they are under warranty. If your dealer gives you a hard time then you need a new dealer or service rep. Customer service is what matters and if they give you a hard time then they should lose your business.

    The Stock intake does act as a CAI but paper filters are poor when it comes to air flow. Also a aftermarket CAI air flow path is straight into the motor Vs going through a secondary filter and L joint. While it might not get huge gains it will still be a better over all design.
     
  13. Nov 1, 2007 at 2:04 PM
    #13
    sawdust

    sawdust [OP] Unapologetic Texan

    Joined:
    Sep 25, 2007
    Member:
    #2802
    Messages:
    1,284
    Frisco, TX
    Vehicle:
    07 TRD Offroad Radiant Red V6 Auto DC
    Homelink mirror, tailgate lock, 2ndary air filter removal, Access LE tonneau, Bugflector II, hitch-based bed extender, vent visors, suspension TSB, stall mat
    I'm planning to put in the AFE dry drop-in filter when it comes time to replace the stock one. I already took out the secondary filter. I don't think getting rid of the L joint would be worth the money for a replacement intake in that case.
     
  14. Nov 2, 2007 at 6:15 AM
    #14
    007Tacoma

    007Tacoma I dub thee malicious!

    Joined:
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    First Name:
    Mark
    San Antonio, TX
    Vehicle:
    2015 4Runner Trail Edition Premium
    Cloaking Device
    Mods that I have done so far...

    Stereo Head Unit upgrade (2 weeks after I bought the Tacoma)
    iPod Interface (same day)
    Rubbermaid Floormats in front
    DRL OEM Upgrade (2 months after I bought the Tacoma)
    Color matched Canvas Seat covers (thanks to my boss)
    Removed Secondary Air Filter
    AFE Drop-in Oil Based Air Filter (should have done Dry Foam)
    ECO Systems ECO 1 VPE

    My to do list...

    Fog Lights (Blinglights... maybe?)
    Satoshi Grill Mod (007 style: see next line)http://4runners.org/writeups/satoshi/index.html
    Driving Lights (in Grill?)
    Tonneau Cover (Access LiteRider or LE)
    Bed Mat (TRDParts4u.com)
    Detroit TruTrac (Keeps getting moved down > Expensive)
    NEW TIRES!!! (Dunflops stink!)
     
  15. Mar 18, 2008 at 8:00 AM
    #15
    Dutch

    Dutch Well-Known Member

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    155
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    Wilmington, NC
    Vehicle:
    07 4x4 Taco
    Started with CAI and Cat-Back, then lift and wheels/tires. Shifter. Seats and harnesses next. S/C on. S/C off and engine mods. S/C back on with pulley mods. Removed lift and replacing with CO's, piggy backs, UCA's, sway and traction. Almost complete..........and that might be the end of it. It has been fun, but consuming, and I have been trying to finish a turbo in my Mazda 6. I need to get rid of some OEM parts now.
     
  16. Mar 18, 2008 at 7:56 PM
    #16
    orangebutte

    orangebutte Well-Known Member

    Joined:
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    #4489
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    64
    Tucson, AZ
    Vehicle:
    08 access cab 4x4 trd off road w/lock diff
    Priority mods I did:

    1. bed mat - 700 mi.
    2. got rid of the CHEAP rugged terrain tires and purchased BFG A/T ko - 1,500 mi.
    3. dashmat - 1,500 mi.
    4. trimmed mud flaps - 2,000 mi.
    5. window tint - 2,000 mi.
    6. disengaged seat belt chime - 2,000 mi.
    All the above purchased with Cabela's club card so I could earn points for additional hunting gear!
    Next mod (summer?) will be A.R.E. MX camper shell.
     
  17. Mar 18, 2008 at 10:18 PM
    #17
    RedBull

    RedBull Member

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    9
    McAllen, TX
    Vehicle:
    2005 4x4 TRD Sport Double Cab
    Here in lies my dilemma: I'd love to do all of the asthetic stuff right away but don't know if there's any performance mods that will really help everyday use and an occassional weekend drive off-road? Some of the asthetic things that I'd love to do:
    1) Put some bigger tires (Maybe some 32'' BFG All-Terrain TA KO)
    2) #1 would probably require a lift of some sort (don't know how much of a lift?)
    3) Westin Bull Bar with some PIAA's to go with it!
    4) Running Boards (for my wife)
    5) Blacked out light covers (just 'cause they look kickass!)
    6) Tint all around
    etc.

    Some of the performance mods that I've read about:
    1) Cold Air Intake
    2) Scangauge II
    3) Upgrading the Oil Filter?
    4) Performance Exhaust

    I wouldn't even know what else...

    The few things that I have:
    1) Hood Protector
    2) All-Weather Floor Mats
    3) Extra Tie-Downs
    4) Synthetic Oil (since 1st oil change - Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic)

    I'd love to hear some feedback from you guys!...
     
  18. Mar 19, 2008 at 2:36 AM
    #18
    Roland

    Roland My other ride has sails

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    2,398
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    Rhode Island
    Vehicle:
    06 Impulse Red I4 2WD Access Cab
    UnderCover Tonneau, Bed mat, Bug Deflector, aFe Pro Dry S, Secondary Air Filter removed, Synthetic 5W-30 oil, Scanguage II with blendmount, WeatherTech floorliners, Toyota seat covers, Installed OEM intermittent wipers, TacomaWorld sticker, Defrost without AC mod, Hidden Hitch
    For what it costs for the aFe Dry Pro there's not much point in waiting. With the ever rising cost of gas the potential fuel savings will pay for it. :)
     
  19. Mar 19, 2008 at 3:35 PM
    #19
    mvega1969

    mvega1969 Well-Known Member

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    Laredo
    Vehicle:
    '17 Tacoma DC LB 4X4 TRD Off Road.
    Hey, you are like me, around $400.00 in points so far... and counting, most of my mods went through it (you can see them in my signature), and next ones are:

    SCANGAUGE II is in the way (group buy)

    Bumper (ARB / Shockworks)... undecided, but no winch
    Light bar at bumper and at upper safari rack
    far from now... lift with big KO's
    Pop up trailer for outdoors
     
  20. Mar 20, 2008 at 9:29 AM
    #20
    RedruM29

    RedruM29 Blinking Car Mod...

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    First Name:
    Kyle
    Nor☆Cal
    Vehicle:
    08 trd sport 4x4
    Just enough, and never enough
    first thing i did was pioneer deck in the scosche kit with my i pod(i can't listen to the radio and don't have cd's) 1000 mi 50$

    then Magnaflow exaust the same day actually the exaust was first:D 1000 mi 400$

    painted rims and badges 1100mi 18$

    True flow xdi 1200mi 280$

    window tint the same day (i seem to do multiples on the same day i'm weird that way) 5% in the back 50% up front clear film on the windshield with a group buy i set up for me and my roomates 1200mi 180$

    grillcraft grill 1250mi 160$

    about to order the scangauge today while i'm at my parents house mi? 150$

    Add it up if you like!
     

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