Opinions please: '02 Tacoma SR5

First timer and would greatly appreciate any insights on this 2002 SR5 4x4 I'm considering.

• It's got 184k on it and the owner is asking $8,500
• Manual trans
• Everything mechanically works fine, but he does not know if timing belt has ever been replaced. Exhaust has been cut off after muffler (said he likes the sound).
• The fender flairs need to be reattached, he likes the look of them off.
• Interior is 7 /10
• Paint is 8 / 10.
• A carfax revealed two accidents or incidents. Seems possibly the driver side has been resprayed b/c of a little over spray in wheel well. But all body panels and lines match up and don't see any body screws that have been tinkered with. Everything looks right.
• Cruise control does not work. But A/C and all other electronics appear to work fine.
• He's put 17' wheels and tires on it from an FJ
• Frame looked fine, no visible rust. Everything else underneath was clean, no noticeable damage. It has skid plates under engine and cab (all clean), I didn't think these came with the SR5 package(?).
• Owner has used it to regularly tow 2000lb utility trailer and comes with receiver, ready to tow.

Primary reason for buying is to tow a 3,000lb camper. Should I hold out for a TRD?

What other questions or things should I ask?

 

4x4 or 4x2

 

4x4

 

I owned a 2002 4x4 sr5 and it was a great truck. I had 220 thousand miles on it. My 4cyl had a timing chain and not a belt. Had some corrosion issues because of where I live. Otherwise it was great. Ether I sold mine for too little or your price may be a bit high.

 

I would ask why you're considering a truck owned by a clown (cut off exhaust: good grief), with Carfax issues, unknown maintenance and a spray job.