Newb from Havasu w/ a few questions.

Hello all,

Newb here from Lake Havasu. I'm 33 years old and looking to downsize (dimensionally) back to a newer Tacoma. My only real use for a truck right now (for a couple years at least) is to tow my Yamaha boat (under 5000 lbs) anywhere between 6 miles to 20 miles and occasionally bed 2 dirtbikes. Some questions:

-Considering the tow rating on the TRD, will I still benefit from an airbag addition in the rear or is it not even necessary (don't wanna go down the road towing my boat with the rear saggin')

-Can the 2wd Prerunner TRD w/ locker be able to pull 5k lbs up the ramp with the rear locked or do I NEED the 4wd model?

-If I need the 4wd version, can I get it w/o the hood scoop, w/o the 17's but with the 16's, and can I get the long bed? It seems they don't exist or are really hard to find.

-Also, after 2005, is there a certain year or range of years I should stay away from or go after? I'm not sure of the small changes they made thru the last 5 years.

THX for any help!

 

Howdy neighbor. Welcome to TW.
4x4 info:The TRD off road pkg.has the locker and 16" wheels.
The sport pkg.has the 17" wheels plus hood scoop.It can be had w/the long bed.
4x2 info:TRD off road pkg is the same as the 4x4.Not sure if it can be had w/the long bed.