Looking at a 1st gen for sale

I am going to look at this 1st gen this evening and was wondering if there is anything in particular I should be looking for in your opinions. The owner says he has had it since he was 16 and has maintained it very well, to the point that he was constantly washing the salt off the undercarriage on a regular basis and is almost sorry he did because he could have gotten a great deal on a new one had he let it rust.


-1996 Toyota Tacoma 4x4 Ext Cab. 2.7L 4 Cylinder Automatic. Power locks, Power windows, Power steering, A/C, Cruise Control. 142,XXX miles.
-Truck has been babied it's entire life.
-New tires, new brakes. Interior is spotless and in like new condition.
-Has Grille Guard, offroading lights.
- NO RUST!

*** Don't be fooled by others with the same year. This truck is as close to pristine as they get. $6350/obo ***






Keywords: Toyota, Yoda, Toy, 4 Wheel Drive, 4WD, Taco, Tacoma, 1996, 4x4, 96. 96', off road, truck, pick up, pickup, pick-up, pickup truck

 

Sounds like you found a gem!
How much is he asking?

 

Add says $6350/OBO

 

Not a bad price. Really check it out before you commit, especially the frame. The best thing you can do is get under it with a rubber mallet and give the frame some firm taps. If anything falls off, or you see any holes- don't buy it.

I just got a 2000 xtracab and I'm loving it! I like it considerably more than my second gen.

 

Ok....for a '96 model...sounds a bit high. Keep in mind the bargining power is in your corner. The truck is 15yrs old..Hope you can talk him down

 

Definitely double check the frame rust. The fact that he even mentioned salt should be a word to be somewhat cautious. Also check the steering rack assembly, C/V boot area for leaking. Definitely check to make sure the main transmission seal and rear end seal are not leaking as that is a common area of wear on these trucks. Personally every used car I've looked at I brought a floor jack with me so I could lift the vehicle and get underneath it with a flash light. If the owner has nothing to hide he should have no problems with you doing this. Also check the radiator fluid color and make sure there is no oil slick residue on the top layer. Check the color of the exhaust fumes if any to make sure there is no blue smoke which is a sign of burning oil. A little white smoke is OK which is most likely water from condensation from the morning. Last run the truck at least 10 miles or more so you can monitor the engine temps to make sure it doesn't overheat or engine temps stay within specified range. That's all I can think of now, but just remember if something doesn't feel right about the truck, it's perfectly OK to walk away.

 

Thanks, great advise.

Also, we are in Ohio so salt is very common in the winter.

 

Nice summary Yamaha!!!