what mods would you make first to SR5 model

so I'm thinking of getting a plain-vanilla SR5 model and doing the following within the first week of having it:

1. strip the air dam
2. de-badge the truck (not sure if there are any stickers to de-sticker; if so, they go too)
3. get better tires -- something that would be good for 90% Interstate and 10% crappy unmaintained fire roads in the West, but no Moab-style rock crawling ... would like to get recommendations on tires
4. cap the bed

also thinking about getting (5.) better shocks and (6.) maybe putting a skid plate on bottom, but might wait a few months or even years for that

Anyway, this would be my first truck. I initially was drawn to the Off-Road but probably can't justify it; in particular, the locking diff. is attractive but given my recreational needs (see above) is almost certainly overkill. I came to regard the SR5 as an unsung trim in the model and I think it'll do fine.

 

First thing to mod is the odometer.

 

Sounds like a plan!

Although add up the cost of the replacement modifications you want to do (tires, shocks) and balance that against what the Off-Road gives you. New tires cost upward to $1000, especially if you decide you don't want the SR's stock wheels. Shocks, springs will end up heading toward $1k also.

Given your list, I would spring for the OR.

Also, make sure the SR has equipment that you feel you need, for me, I'd make sure (I don't know what the SR comes with stock, so some of this is likely on it already):

1. Cruise control
2. Trip odometer
3. Intermittent wipers
4. Gas struts to hold the hood, but I think all variants use a stick to prop up the hood (yeah, I like hanging out in the engine)
5. Sliding window on back of cab
6. 400w outlet on bed
7. Ideal wheel size (future proof)
8. Locking gas cap
9. Full size spare
10. Air conditioning
11. Floor mats
12. Bed mat

And so on, use your existing car to figure out what you use most in your day to day driving - make sure the SR has it.

 

Why?

 

Nothing,If I pay almost $40k for a taco I even expect to come with tinted windows,
Tell you the truth, nothing at all til a few good years, I hate to remove brand new parts for aftermarket,
Stock it's always better

 

TW Sticker.
New suspension.
Front and rear locker.
Steel bumpers.

 

The SR5 w/ conv. package w/ auto is $31,940. The TRD Off Road Base w/Manual is $32,100 ($160 difference) and for that you get quite a bit more stuff.
Lockers, ATRAC, upgraded rims, bilstein off road shocks, LED's, Qui Charging, Premium audio, mirror turn signal indicators, charcoal interior, bed A/C outlet, wide angle fog lights, chrome grille, you don't have to remove the airdam, I'm not sure what diff comes on the sr5 auto, but the 8.75 is on the trdOR.