Newbie considering a 1st or 2nd gen to start building my rig

Hey guys, I’m new to the forum. I don’t have a taco yet but I really hope to get one within a year. Trucks I will consider getting would be the 1st gen double cab off road, or if they’re cheap enough, 2nd gen off road. I want to do off-roading maybe a little rock climbing when I do get one. Any suggestions of price points I want to aim to save for? Or any recommendations on where to start building a a rig? All will be greatly appreciated!

 

Welcome to the Madhouse!!!
Post some pics when you get your truck.

 

How many people do you usually have with you? How tall are you? 1st gen is smaller than the 2nd. More likely to find lower mile 2nd gen obviously. Look in the market place on here for trucks for sale. Start with sliders then head to suspension and armor. That's all after doing all the fluid and regular maintenance to your new truck to get it on your schedule.

 

@snowtank thanks for the reply! And I am usually by myself at most would be two other people with me I am 5’9 160 lb so I think the size of the 1st gen is fine. I have a brother in law with a 3rd gen TRD Off road witch I drive often. I like the size of it but there’s no way I can afford it. I’ve been looking at a few Tacoma’s on here I am definitely attracted to the 1st gen Tacoma’s more because people say there’s less problems than the 2nd gen.

 

Welcome to TW... I’ve had both,1st and 2nd Gen’s and I liked them both.

 

Yeah you would fit a first gen just fine. I would aim for a double cab just for extra room. Stay away from a 3rd gen. Just say no. Do drugs instead. But I never have had problems with any of my second genes. Happy hunting and good luck finding your new truck

 

Welcome!

 

Welcome to TW!!

 

Contrary to typical belief, just because the 1st gens are older, doesn't mean they're cheaper. 1st gens are usually pretty highly sought after.

There's really no such thing as a low mileage, good condition 1st gen for a "decent" price. I've seen asking prices for a early 2000's Tacomas of 16 grand or more, depending on where you live. I've seen 2nd gens go for less than a good first gen.

If you're on a budget, that will typically mean you're buying a project truck. Either because it's a 2wd pre-runner (and you want to make it a 4wd), or you've got one with a rusted frame, or engine work, etc...

If you're set on a 1st gen, have cash and be willing to drive quite a ways to get it (even fly if needed). Take your time, they're out there, but aren't always easy to find. Read up on the buyers guide in the 1st gen section.

 

@jbrandt thanks for the advice! And I live in SoCal so I’ve only seen decent 1st gen trucks for like $14k+ And definitely will read up on that. Thanks again!