08 Rugged Trail Services

I recently purchased my 2008 Tacoma Rugged Trail. Truck has 140k mi and I want to do several services to it including; Spark Plugs, Transmission, and Rear Diff.
Which plugs and fluids are best recommended and how bad is servicing the transmission? I have heard nightmarish stories about servicing this transmission.
Thanks.

 

Welcome to TW!

Use the regular copper Denso or NGK plugs. Which Transmission (auto or manual)? I vote Mobil 1 synthetic for the diffs. Are you 2wd? If 4x4, might as well do front diff too - the axles are always spinning.

 

The search box is your friend, but here's to get you started.

**This is assuming you have a 1GR-FE**

Mods/tips/tricks for 2nd gens here: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2nd-gen-tips-mods-more.7174/
Plugs change here: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-to-spark-plug-change-1-gr-fe.30479/
Rear diff: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/changing-differential-fluid-a-step-by-step-how-to.24545/

You also probably want to lube the driveshaft (I used Lucas Red N Tacky): https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/drive-shaft-lube-points-2nd-gen-4wd.225161/

Fluid recommendations are included in the DIY threads. I'd go with Toyota for the trans fluid and Mobil1 for the diffs and transfer case.

 

For rear diff most people seem to like the Mobil 1 synthetic 75-90 and stock replacement spark plugs. I would leave the transmission service up to the dealership since it is not as simple as drain and refill.

 

The truck is 2wd but has the RR diff lock button on dash. Transmission is Auto

 

The rear end is extremely easy just make sure you get enough fluid to fill it up, should be around 3 quarts I think. Also get the little pump that goes in the bottle to make it easier to refill. Make sure you can loosen the fill plug before you try to loosen and drain from the bottom.