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2002 4x4 SR5 double cab Build advice needed

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by bodhi armor, May 6, 2015.

  1. May 6, 2015 at 9:07 AM
    #1
    bodhi armor

    bodhi armor [OP] 02’ Dbl Cab- "The Luck Dragon"

    Joined:
    Apr 21, 2015
    Member:
    #153669
    Messages:
    522
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Joshua
    East TX
    Vehicle:
    2002 4x4 Dbl Cab Jade Green
    Hello everyone, This is my first Tacoma build and I'm super excited about it!!

    I have been using a 2002 SR5 double cab 4x4 as my daily driver for about a year now, When I purchased this truck it had 170,000 miles, now it has 185,000 and change.
    I know nothing of how the 1st owner drove and maintained the truck, but the second owner is a mechanic and Toyota truck fanatic, he took meticulous care of this truck and it shows!
    I am the 3rd owner and as long as I'm alive there will not be a 4th.

    Everything is in good working order, the body and interior are PERFECT and only has 1 small scratch on the hood that will probably buff out.

    Current mechanical upgrades; New Bilstein heavy duty shocks and struts
    2" front "above strut mounted" T6 aircraft aluminum spacer lift
    1.5" rear "add a leaf" lift
    Differential drop kit
    Skid plate drop kit
    Brush guard powder coated black

    Aesthetic upgrades; All badges removed
    ALL chrome removed, or painted matte black
    Aluminum wheels powder coated black

    Future upgrades; 32" AT tires
    Differential locker
    Coil over mid travel strut lift
    Exhaust system, Headers
    Supercharger (maybe)
    Light bars
    Rock sliders
    Plate bumper w/ winch
    Rear tube bumper with rock guards
    Cruise control
    Replace automatic trans for a standard

    My plan is to drive this truck beyond 1,000,000 miles. I want to replace any parts before they fail, but I don't know where to start.

    One of the 1st things is the mid travel coil over lift struts.
    I've found a lot of options for these with prices ranging from $500 to $1,600 per pair.
    I've read a lot of threads where people are using Bilstein 5100 adjustable but I've also heard they are bad about leaking.
    I don't mind paying upwards of $700 (ex:FOX 2.0) for a PAIR if they're going to provide an excellent, long lasting ride quality.

    What is the very best coil over 2-3" adjustable strut assembly for less than $800 pair, best for $500 pair? how much of a quality difference between the price ranges?

    Also, what mechanical or electrical systems should I replace next?

    This truck will spend 80% of its life on pavement but I also drive down a torn up dirt and rock road several times a week, so I need to upgrade my off road capabilities.

    Any GOOD advice would be very appreciated.

    Thanks.
     
  2. May 6, 2015 at 2:54 PM
    #2
    bowyer2002

    bowyer2002 always tinkering

    Joined:
    Sep 4, 2009
    Member:
    #22295
    Messages:
    439
    Gender:
    Male
    NE Missouri
    Vehicle:
    01 Taco SR5 D-cab 4WD
    OME 882s, OME shocks all around and OME Dakar spring packs, ARB, Warn 8000, ARE shell, Custom rear bumper w/ reciever, 5-235/80R17 Cooper Discoverer ST MAXX on FJ wheels, grey wire mod, Hi-Lift, Hellas, Red-Line hood lifters, Scion radio, sliders, Safari snorkel & LED Ditch lights on CBI mounts.
    Pictures please!
     
  3. May 6, 2015 at 4:29 PM
    #3
    bodhi armor

    bodhi armor [OP] 02’ Dbl Cab- "The Luck Dragon"

    Joined:
    Apr 21, 2015
    Member:
    #153669
    Messages:
    522
    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Joshua
    East TX
    Vehicle:
    2002 4x4 Dbl Cab Jade Green
    Roger that, as soon as i get back in town I'm on it!
     

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