General Questions about 2nd Gen Long Bed 4x4

First time posting here. Did a quick search, but didn't see any sort of general question post like this so please forgive me if this is redundant for you:

I'm looking at several used 2005-2011 Tacoma's. Specifically I'm eyeing the 4x4 long bed with the Sport package. Now, I had a 2004 extended cab with the Off-road package and it was glorious. I am now married and about to have a baby so I need a double cab, for sure. My questions are based on my great experience with the 2004 and so I'm trying to get a better idea of what I can expect the experience to be like with the long bed.

1. Is the long bed significantly heavier than the short-bed double cab? Looking at the stats I think the short-bed weighs 4080 lbs and the long bed 4135. Is that about right? I'm guessing its not noticeable but I can't be certain.

2. How does the VVTI V6 compare to the V6's in 2004 and earlier models? I'm not an engine/physics/fluids guy, nor am I technically savvy with motors. Is it generally more powerful than the older engine technology? Will it be under-powered going up hills? I don't tow anything but I do drive up into the mountains in CO and my 2004 V6 tacked at 4000rpms easily when I climbed up into the rockies on. I really had to push it, and I'd like to know if I can generally expect to have the same kind of experience.

3. Relative to that, what affordable aftermarket modifications can be done to improve power if it's lacking?

4. How does the long bed double cab model handle off-road compared to the short-bed? Have you guys had any issues with the long bed when off-road where you wouldn't have had them in the short bed? I probably won't be doing any rock-crawling, but I will be going through snow and wheeling on forrest service roads when possible. I'd prefer the long bed size for functionality, but if it's a significant detriment to the overall use of the truck off-road I might reconsider.

5. Has anyone with the long bed been dissapointed with it? If so, why?

6. Can the Toyota factory roof-rails be installed on a Tacoma after market or is that something only the dealership will do at the time of order? I don't want a roof mounted after market Yakima/Thule set up, I'd like the rails that are attached to the vehicle.

7. I'm considering a 2007 Long bed 4x4 sport with 112k miles. See the link below. I don't know what service has been performed on this truck so I'm curious to know what I can reasonably expect to have to do in the next 6-12 months? Timing belts? Pumps, etc...? Is there anything invasive I might worry about coming up? It seems to be reasonably well taken care of

http://www.loveford.com/used-Loveland-2007-Toyota-Tacoma-Base-5TEMU52N67Z452332

8. About how many more miles can I reasonably expect to put on a motor with 112k already? I wanted to drive my 2004 into the ground but had to trade it in at about 140K so I'd love to know if I can expect to put 100+K miles on this truck given proper maintenance and care. Is that unrealistic?

9. Do you guys have any qualms or issues with newer Tacomas being built in Baja, Mex? I heard tell of rumors/issues with those autos coming out of Mexico. Toyota at one point did all their manufacturing here in the states. What's your sense of the quality of the product coming out of Baja?

That's it. You guys are awesome. Thanks for taking the time read through all this.

 

My thoughts are in red...if you have any other questions, let me know.

 

for what its worth....This was my first truck




and my current one...

 

The feedback is very much appreciated. My ideal truck is the 2012 (love the new grill and front bumper) with color keyed grille and rear fender. I just can't spring for a 30K+ truck at the moment.

Also, I was thinking 16K would be just the right price out the door. Not sure how excited they are to get rid of it. I might hold off though, we'll see.

Regardless, I really appreciate all the input.

 

Why not look for a DCLB NON-TRD model? That would let you afford a newer truck with less miles...maybe even a 2012...

 

I'm enjoying the hell out of my 2013 TRD Sport DC long bed. My last rig was an '03 Cavalier so I thought the DCLB was going to feel longer than a wagon track. I was totally wrong though, it's still a short truck and whips around just fine in the woods.

 

I don't have the double cab long bed, but the access cab with the long bed. I also wanted to vouch for the engine power. I had a 93 SR5 toyota pickup 4x4 with the V6. This tacoma engine is way more powerful and accelerates way faster.

 

DCLB FTMFW

In before the DavidK " the hoodscoop is for looks package " BS

 

Haha, yeah...I'm sure it will turn into that...

 

I could give a rip about the hood scoop, for the record.

 

I like the TRD options, most especially the color keyed grille/bumper. There are also some other bits like the sliding rear window and others that are important to me.

 

You know the Sport models don't have a locker right ?

 

Yep. I think only the off road package has that, right? I needed it once on my '04 in Mexico, but that's it in the nearly 10 years I owned it. With BFG All Terrain's and the 4x4 I was rarely ever stuck.

I'm not a big rock crawler type either, so I figured the off-road isn't necessary.

 

K

I've never had any issues with my DCLB Sport 4x4 as far as getting where I need to go , no rock crawling for me either

 

Speaking of the off-road package on the short-beds and non-double cabs, what if any advantages other than the locker does it provide? Specs say it has a beefier suspension, perhaps some better shocks, is that it? Down hill assist control, etc...? Are those worth the extra couple $K?

 

Offroad has locker, ATRAC, front tow hook, "offroad tuned suspension" as opposed to "sport tuned suspension". Downhill assist is on both offroad and sport automatics. The ATRAC and locker are the big differences. It's really up to the individual buying whether its worth it or not. For me it was worth it.

 

I currently have an '08 double cab long bed. I have two kids still in car seats that fit well in the back. I am tall so it does get a little tight but not uncomfortable. I put a cap on it when I had kids. As far as power, I have a 16' double axle trailer that I use for firewood and other stuff and has always pulled it easily. I had the leaf spring TSB done but still have significant sag so I am going to get the firestone ride rites. As far as offroading is concerned, I have always gotten where I need to go. Living in Vermont, driving on paved roads is like offroading. Any turn off a main road turns to dirt and mud. Always handled mud season well. It handles snow and crap weather well, recommend snow tires and a little weight. I do agree with the other member about holding out for a truck with a few less miles, especially if you want to drive into the ground. Someone trading in a truck with 112000 miles on probably hammered the hell out of it for that time. Hope I helped, good luck. You won't be disappointed whatever you buy.
Cheers

 

True in a '09 and newer Offroad 4x4

OP said he was looking at 05-11

 

That price is ridiculous...check out kbb for it.

 

Yup. I've taken my Taco places I used to take my wrangler. Taco did just fine, maybe even a little better in low 4. I have a 09 SR5. The only thing the wrangler has on my taco is turning radius, but then again it's a truck.