New to the Tacoma World Need Advice

I am currently driving a 2000 Tundra and I am looking to trade it in for a 2005 or up Tacoma. I was hoping you guys could influence my decision with some helpful advice. Is there a particular year that is better than others? My Tundra has a 2.5 inch lift and I cannot seem to keep a CV shaft in either side. Is this the same for Tacoma's? I have searched exhaustively, but there doesn't seem to be a straight answer. I read the lift sticky, but I am looking for your personal experiences because I would like to do a similar lift if I buy one. What have you guys run into for issues and is there a better setup to help avoid them? Thanks for the help!

 

Do you have a budget and truck configuration preference ?

 

I would prefer a Double Cab with the longer bed with an automatic transmission, but I would bend for the right deal. As far as a budget I don't really have a number. I want to do things correctly the first time to eliminate issues down the road. I am looking to do a 3 inch lift and maybe run 265/75/16 All Terrain type tires.

 

The 08's and under have a mechanical LSD and lack the VSC and traction control that can be an issue for some when lifting

 

I'm gonna say with a 3 in lift, those tires may look a bit small. That's what I run on my dcsb at stock height, and I think it looks really proportioned. Heard 05 had motor mount issues and some rust issues (mine has neither) I imagine these may be issues with 09 since it map vie first year with a trac and auto LSD but I could be wrong.

 

Anyone have issues with CV boots tearing? I also keep reading about a vibration problem after lifting any experience with that?

 

Boot slide mod and ECGS bushing

 

What do you guys think about the 2.5 inch Toytec lift? Am I less likely to have issues with this lift because its minimal?