Help me drive my 97 forever!

As a former science educator I find evidence based practices truly beneficial.

 

A high mileage synthetic oil (Valvoline Max life full synthetic, for example) won't cause leaks. High mileage oils have additives to swell/condition old seals

 

The biggest issue for me was trying to reach everything while removing as little as possible around it.
Stripped my o2 sensor bung bolts, and stripped out one of the bolt holes on the flange of the downpipe, but nothing a good tap and die set can't handle.
I didn't even touch the manifold...not messing with that, haha. I just did everything from the front cat down.
Good luck to you, 3rd time's a charm!

 

Update for anyone who might be following this thread:

Yesterday I disassembled, cleaned, reassembled, and reinstalled the Aisin hub on the drivers side...it wouldn't turn and now it works fine.

I also checked all my fluids and upon seeing the radiator fluid being low decided to do an impromptu coolant flush. Other than being time consuming it went flawlessly and now that is taken care of.

I think people are starting to think I'm crazy for continuing to keep a 20 year old truck going, especially in upstate NY where the engine will outlast the frame and body. To me, if I spend less than a grand this year and keep it running strong for another couple years that will be a whole lot more cost effective than a car payment.

In addition I feel like every new vehicle is a risk. I know mine doesn't burn oil, or leak any fluids...I think I'd rather stick with the trusty Tacoma I have then move to something that could be in the shop all the time.

 

Your not crazy, Lots of people here that love the 1st gens and wouldn't give them up. You have 1,000s of miles to go with no payments.
My truck is 20 years old and looks like it has 75,000 miles on it, I could go buy a new Tacoma tomorrow if I wanted, NO WAY,
Anyone can sign up for a new car payment

 

I guess I never updated this...

Truck developed an oil leak from oil pan. Sold as is for $5500 in less than 24 hours after putting on CL...bought a 2nd gen DCSB TRD OR with 100k miles, one owner and a new frame. Yeah I have a small payment now, but I have the amount of seats I need and another 10 years at least before I have to think about buying a truck again.