buying a first gen

whats a good year first gen 4x4.what are some things to look for? not sure if they have a thread on this if so let me know.. thanks

 

I personally like the looks of the 98-00 since I drive a 2000......if you are looking, try to find a v6 model trd off road (factory rear e locker)

If you need 4 doors, then look at the 01-04.....those are nice as well

Mine has the 2.7 4 cyl. in it.....175K and still going (basic maintenance is the key)

 

1995.5-97 is the best

On a more serious note the 3.4 is great. I have the 5 speed, I love it except for anything above 65mph.

 

my plans is to build an exp rig. so maybe and ext cab. really would like to have a v6 with the OR package. also not sure if I want and auto or manual. thanks for your info

 

x2!

 

I do like the 96-97's. going to start searching craigslist

 

Be very careful of the frame...and internal frame rust. Toyota had a 15 year Frame Rust Warranty on 1st gen trucks for 15 years. They were inspecting and buying-back trucks with bad frames. That has since 'ended'

This is INTERNAL frame rust and you won't necessarily see it from the outside.

You might consider having a Toyota dealer inspect the frame before you buy it, just to be safe.

 

i love my 01 4x4 4dr! about to replace the waterpump and timing belt at 255k+ miles. enough room to take the rear seats out and build a platform for expo gear or arb fridge/freezer and some recovery gear or sleeping, food and water supplies....not to mention it would be very easy to access what you need via full platform, half or quarter platform.

 

Frame rust "shouldn't" be too big of an issue in TX... but you never know...


If it were me, I'd just be sure to get the 3.4l v6. If you're building an expo rig, you'll need that power. Other than that, I like a 5-speed... but that's personal taste. 1st gens are nice reliable, tough trucks. As long as the motor isn't beat to death, you can fix most everything else pretty easily.

 

I'm biased but I'd have to say go with a '99 TRD with the 3.4 and automatic. Had mine since 2002 and it has been a dependable daily driver/light wheeler ever since. Change the oil regularly and the timing belt/water pump at every 100k and it will last forever. When I get the itch for more hardcore wheeling I take out the FJ40. Saves the Taco from getting dented up on all the tight trails with trees up here. Good luck!

 

thats somthing that could be overlooked, good idea bout bringing it in.

hmm, never thought about doing that to a 4 door. sounds pretty awesome.

yes definitely what a v6. easier to work on to me.

thanks for all the info. its really gonna help me find what I need

 

what i'd like to do to it! oh and when you get one make sure you don't do the push button thing for the 4wd...just keep it all manual.

 

right on, Ill keep it all in mind when searching.

 

Love my 2002 extra-cab. V6 manual. Make sure to check the frame not only for rust but for off road damage. There are still lots of clean stock 1st gens out there..

 

when a nice one comes up in my area it isnt around very long. lol

 

Very true. I got lucky when I found mine. Just be ready to pounce on one when it comes up...