Looking to "upgrade" to 2nd gen. Question about options.

It's about that time to start thinking about retiring my 1st gen as a DD and going to a 2nd gen. I'll cut right to the chase with my questions.

1. I know for sure I want a locking rear diff and A-Trac. Is the offroad trim the only one that contains both the locker and A-Trac? I hate to pay a premium for "upgraded" shocks and stuff when I'll be changing it all out anyway.

2. I know on FJ's that didn't come with A-Trac you could just order the switch, pop the blank faceplate off and all the wiring was in place for the A-Trac system. Just plug the switch in and you were good to go. Is this the same on the Tacoma's?

3. To clarify, A-Trac only became available on 09 and up tacomas, correct?

 

Comments in red

EDIT: Well I stand corrected...apparently 05-08 Tacomas DO have ATRAC, but no ATRAC switch...not really sure how that works though, but here is the thread with info:
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/technical-chat/184784-2005-2008-4x4-trd-off-roads-vsc-trac-hac-dac-alsd-atrac-explained.html

 

Thanks. I'll check that out.

 

Good luck with you upcoming purchase. Keep us posted.

 

Another more general question. I haven't been really following the progress of the 2nd gens because quite frankly I never had much interest in them. With the age of the 1st gens and all the environmental factors around here sadly you cannot keep them forever.

I would be buying used for sure. With my budget I would like a 09+. Is there any major differences between the 2009 to lets say 2011? Did they work out any "bugs" or add/remove anything of great significance?

 

Not sure on all of the possible "bugs". But big aesthetic differences are the front end redesign for 2012+ models. For 2014 models Toyota dropped some of the rear view mirror features but since you are going used that isn't an issue. I believe it was 2009+ models that have factory reinforced tailgates (probably just a bandaid fix that still doesn't fully eliminate the issue but I never put a ton of weight on my tailgate). 05-08 models have issues with weak tailgates, mainly for people hauling heavy stuff like motorcycles and whatnot. Aftermarket tailgate reinforcements are available for peace of mind, from Relentless Fab.

Also, not sure on year, but at some point Toyota began plugging frame holes with plastic caps to prevent corrosion in those areas, mainly the wheel well frame areas.

The rust issues of 1st gens is all but eradicated. Frame manufacturers changed from early models (05 were from Dana, maybe 06 too? but current frames are by a company that starts with an M, I forget the name) So be vigilant on checking the undercarriage on a used 2nd gen. Problems seem to be most notable for 05 and 06 models as reported by users on here. Biggest notable spot for rust is on the frame near the cat converter. If PO took care of the truck none of this should be any issue...plenty of happy Tacoma owners on here without any corrosion problems, and also quite a handful of earlier model year owners with these issues.

Others can chime in on if any other "bugs" are out there from earlier models that have been fixed.

 

I noticed that the a/c drains directly on top of the frame. I rerouted my drain hose so it would drain under the truck without hitting the frame. I'm afraid of rust issues...

 

I did the same. There was a good thread about preventative maintenance and such to prolong the life of the Tacoma, but I can't find it at the moment. Preventative maintenance definitely won't hurt

From what I recall, the AC drain drips right onto the frame near the body mount location, so for anyone looking to buy used, this would also be a good area to check for any rust.