Looking for Advice on my Used Tacoma I recently purchased

Hey guys! Looking for a used Shell to fit my black 2003 Tacoma XtraCab and was wondering if a shell does not have a third brake light, do you know if it is possible to put one on? I'm in the San Diego area if anyone knows where I could find an affordable one.

Secondly, I have been hearing a higher pitched grinding noise that is in sync with my wheels a few minutes after driving. I feel like it is closer to the front right wheel but not positive. And when I break the sound completely goes away. I am getting my steering bushings replaced but I'm not sure if that is the cause...Breaks were also recently checked and have time on them. I've also heard is could be rust rubbing? Any opinions would be great.

Lastly, my bumper sags slightly to one side after a minor collision. I went into a shop today and they estimated a 600$ fix but I was wondering if there were any other measures I could take to straighten it out..I have also looked into new bumpers that are not stock...Thanks so much for all help!

 

lift the truck a little with a hi-lift on that low side, might bend it back or closer to. I would put a rag on the jack so you don't scratch your chrome bumper. Or you could build a new one...

 

Oh boy, welcome to the forum.



Sure you can add a 3rd brake light. Anything is possible. As for the feasibility, not sure on the shell design, composition, the light you want to use, and what you are capable of or how deep your pockets are.

Per the grinding, have you jacked up each corner and checked for end play in the wheel? It could be a few things, like control arm bushings (upper and/or lower), sway bar bushings, sway bar end links, tie rod ends (both inner and/or outer), ball joints (upper or lower), wheel bearings, or even something as simple as a bent dust shield.

As mentioned, jack up the truck under the bumper, bend it back.

 

Try Pioneer auto Wreckin in El cajon, they might have a bumper, then Highway 67 truck in lakeside... they might even put it on the wire and see whats out there.

 

This chrome bumper is great and I have it on my ride. Its almost exactly the same as OEM. Quality/price is really good and it comes with new brackets:

https://www.amazon.com/TKY-TY40342C-Toyota-Replacement-Complete/dp/B002MYG8L2