Oldie2007 - The Little Big Red Readers Digest Renovation, Revival, and Restoration Thread.

Hey all. This will never be a BUILD thread, and nothing major is going to happen to my truck, compared to many of you. But, this is my fourth Tacoma over a long time, and this is the one that will be the retirement truck, and also has to chauffer the 5'0" wife when needed. Purchased in September 2017, ahead of my planned schedule. Because Hurricane Harvey was rapidly reducing what had been a huge market of $10K old Tacos. So, I got it early. Turns out, I got retired early too. Anyway, new to me at 191K, 4'th owner. Maintained for most of the mechanical issues, pretty much abused cosmetically - but not trashed by any means.

Also, being a total newcomer last year, I had no idea how to create posts and threads, so please give me a chance while I build this up a little. I have found that many folks that helped me get started are no longer here, or the threads are not here as well. If something is "educational", I will try to make a more detailed thread with links and everything that folks seem to like. This is a GENERAL thread, as much for my fun as anyone. Maybe you didn't want to spend a fortune, and just get enjoyment of what are some really great trucks. And that said, I have to say THANK YOU to all of you in TacomaWorld for helping me along. And you encouraged me to join up with the local "crazy people": https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/ttc-☆-official.541185/page-1736#post-18759868

So, instead of a "build" thread, this is my "make it modern and fun" thread. And this will help me keep track of some things!

It's a lie! He changed it. A bunch of stuff. Maybe it wasn't on purpose, but it's not the same! Don't trust a thing he says!

After cleaning up, as brought home, Little Big Red is:

2007 SR5 PreRunner Doublecab, Short Bed, Impulse Red Pearl
Current miles: 193K (9/18) 194K (1/19) 198.5K (8/19) 201K (1/20)

Needs some updating! (boy, I'll say!!)
Suspension
New Monroe Replacement Strut Assemblies for the front, and shocks for the back - Installed 10/18 @194K by Triple C Chop Shop @Texoma. Thank you very much.
Replaced front Shock Spring Assy with 30K Used Bilstein's from 2016 OR (4/19) at 195K @ Lost Husker Estates.
Front Tie Rods, Tie Rod Ends & Bellows, Upper and Lower Ball joints, Stabilizer Bars, replaced at 195K (3/19), by Triple C Chop Shop (also finished the work at Circuit of the Americas!)
Alignment at 195K (3/19) Firestone, again after lift (4/19), after wheels & tires (2/20)
265/75 R16 112T Ironman AT on Chrome Toyota 6 lugs. New when I got her.
Frame inspection 2015, VERIFIED for recall as done (11/18)
Rear Springs replaced at 164K (9/16) and VERIFIED for recall as done (1/19)
Rear spring 1" block spacer and u-bolts (4/19) at 195K @ Lost Husker Estates

UJoint/Front Pass Wheel Bearing/Trans Mount replaced at 186K (4/17)
Front Brake Pads/Rotors replaced at 164K (9/16), also 94K (7/12). Man folks were tough on brakes.
Rear Brake Shoes/Drums surfaced at 194K (2/19) Also, brake fluid flush & exchange.​

Drivetrain
Battery, Alternator replaced at 164K, (12/15), Duralast battery (12/19) me
Flex-a-Lite Electric fan install at 193K, (8/18) me
Plug Replacement and TB/Filter service at 191K, (11/17) me
Rear gear pumpkin changed out to 110K OEM from 2012 OR, with 44K Detroit Tru-Trac (7/19) Triple C, and fluid change out.
Rear diff fluid change 194K (2/19)
K&N Cold Air filter new to me, cleaned and installed 195K (4/19) along with throttle body and MAF clean.
Serpentine belt replaced 195K (4/19)

Exterior
Abused Impulse Red with Clearcoat rash on top of roof sides, and some on outside window sills. Homebrew repair in this thread. Finished real clear coat fix for doors and roof (12/18) All one level of gloss mostly (1/19)
Replaced missing chrome wheel center covers
Trux-Port Roll Up tonneau
AVS Bugflector, Window Vents
Replacement "Wire Form" style grille (E-Auto Grilles - Amazon)
Added LED DRL to lower grille, tied to Parking Lights (always left on). (1/19) Replaced with new DRL mounted inside grill (1/19) Relay to turn them off with Headlights pending.
Replaced ALL exterior Inc. lights with LED replacement bulbs (ex. Head & Fog)
Replaced front mudflaps (cut off from previous owners)
Replaced rear bumper plate lights with new LED holders.
Red Line hood struts
Just for Fun Engine Cover paint
Rescued 2017 Predator step bars (1/19) replacing Dealer Installed Aires step bars. (2007!)
Replaced OEM clear plastic Fogs with new plastic Amber (1/19)
Replaced OEM Headlight assemblies with DEPO Black Background stock lamp replacement (7/19)
Added ARIES-P2054-Pro-Series-Grille-Guard, new to me (9/19) Removed for new project (12/19!)
EZdown tailgate damper (12/19)
Replaced mismatched OEM Taillight assemblies with 2013 Center LED, and used LED for turn and back up (12/19)

Interior
CLEANED (and still cleaning) and new floor mats
All important floor mat clips replaced
Replaced stock audio with Kenwood DDX774BH Head - AM/FM/SAT, Video, Bluetooth
Rear plate Back Up Camera
All speakers replace with Pyle Audio - 6x9 and tweeter with Xover up front, 6.5 rear; Sound deadener installed 1/2 way up all exterior door, and surround speaker on inside...
Replaced cig. lighter with USB/AUX port
Steering wheel control adapters to retain control
Experimental short stub antennae (discarded)
Map & Dome LED Festoon bulb replacements (still going to tie them together)
GENTEK AutoDimming, Temp and Compass Mirror
LED Flasher relay underdash
Just for Fun AC Control knob replacement
Tic-Tacs and koozies for the ever pending golf game.....

OK, now, I am going to add the segments! Wish me luck.

 

The Bring it Home clean up (Phase One - Oct 17)
For coming from an exotic sports car dealer, I should have known they had no idea what a truck was. They had McLarens (yes, multiple), a Nissan Skyline, Porsches, Vettes, you name it. And Little Big Red. But all of the sudden in September 2017, Hurricane Harvey was wiping out available $10K Tacos. This was suddenly the only one in Austin area. We checked it out, and took it home.

On the parking lot, a rainy, grey day, so the clean up they did was kind of a moot point. But, they clearly didn't care to detail a truck like they would have done the cars in the building. But, clean, everything I checked worked, damage was cosmetic, and not bad for 10 years old.


Time to tend to the obvious - wheel insert covers (those were chrome wheels? - I had to clean them up, but yes). Floor mat clips. Front wheel mudflaps. LED Replacement Plate lights, because the old ones literally crumbled as I cleaned. The poor rear chrome bumper. That got the famous You Tube Coke and Foil treatment, and yes, that works! Here we go.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IG5EBM8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$5 Genuine Toyota Accessories 08210-00820 Custom Fit Floor/Cargo Mat Clip

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BRL6M6M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Red Hound Auto Custom Fit Front Mudguard for 2005-2015 Compatible with Toyota Tacoma Models

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01D5BB3WE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$16 HERCOO LED License Plate Light Lamp Lens White Bulbs Black Truck Rear Housing Compatible with 2005-2015 Tacoma 2002-2013 Tundra Pickup Truck Rear Step Bumper Aftermarket Repalcement, Pack of 2

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XSXRN36/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7OdX42NjWQ
(Yes I picked a crude and quick video, but this works, even with Diet Coke - leave the bourbon for later).

End of Phase ONE, but wait, there's more.....

 

The OK What's Bad Fix Up & Thrill Myself - (Phase Two - Oct 2017)

One thing that was bad, was the crack in the windshield. Dealer didn't want to give me anything, and I thought "not that bad", so we left it. Could NOT stop staring at it on the once a week exercise trip to work. Got an old friend JR Glass & Tint in Lockhart to replace it at a better price than I thought. Can't have the wife staring out a cracked windshield. So, pretty painless, (ok, NOT painless to watch) and good to go.



And my Tonneau came that week, so I got to put that on. I love these things, good waterproof cover, easy to get out of the way, and maybe NO MPG improvement. Super easy to install, and major feeling of accomplishment for something that easy! https://www.realtruck.com/truxport-tonneau-cover/R18780P2007Y608MA.html


A lot of fun for pretty minor expense so far. Ok, but wait, there's more!

 

I'll try to complete the catch up with rain and football this weekend. Thanks for the likes so far. Like I said, it's just RRR. But, wait, there's more!

 

Your're going to have it looking new again at this rate. Congrats on your new ride.

 

The OK, I'm going to tackle the clear coat rash as cheap as I can! - (Phase Three -Nov 2017)

Here is where I get really brave and possibly stupid - watching a YouTube video about clear coat fix up. No, not going to refinish this. It has enough little dents to be a 10 foot truck, and that is what it is going to be. But it is going to be outside, as apparently has been, and that rash is not going to bet better by itself, and it is not intended to be a permanent fix - just a make better. No garage, all done outside on a cool, not overly sunny day, and very light wind. So, for about $50 at Amazon, here we go.

Examples of the worst rash, across the top sides, and the door window sills.


Yes, I saw several miracle cures. If they worked, I'd never see rashed vehicles. BUT, if you found something, I would trust you (sort of), just because you are here. I actually run into a few 2007 Tacos just like mine, with the same issues. I think Mexico skimped on the clear coat in 2007. OK, so here is the YouTube inspiration.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbSIjsUeWZQ

Here is the 3M pad used for breaking the surface down

$11 Scotch-Brite Ultra Fine Grade 7448 Hand Pad, Pack of 3, 6 in x 9 in Hand Pads, Nonwoven Silicon Carbide, Surface Preparation, Scuffing, and Cleaning, Gray

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004QXKXS6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is the magic 2 part Clear Coat - and it is a LOT different from Auto part store rattle cans.

$25 Spray max USC 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0043B7UQY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Sandpaper - I didn't use it because where the problems were, it was too hard to see the difference. For the picky, certainly blend.

$8 3M Wetordry Sandpaper, 32023, 1500 Grit, 9 in x 11 in, 5 Sheets Per Pack

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002MSY7C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

So, you have to tape off the area to work on when you scrub the finish down, and I was scared as sh*t when I did it. I was sure it was ruined.


At least most of the rash was scrubbed off, tho I was not sure at all about what I had done. Anyway, mask it off for the clear coat


I'm going to skip the process shots - 3 light/medium coats with a minimum 1/2 hour dry time. Each coat made me feel a LOT better! Here is the result:


And, you know what. Pretty good for no experience whatsoever, and $50.
NOW Sept. 2018 - I have some small bubbles that came back, and some new defect past what was there. I might just do some more in cooler weather.

OK, but wait, there's more!

 

The Inspired by TacomaWorld and I want to update my mirror - (Phase Four - Nov 2017)

I originally did a bad album of this, and it is a mish-mash of threads that either have disappeared, or I just can't find them. This is one I will eventually post as a HOW TO THREAD. This is just an overview of installing a GENTEX AutoDimming mirror with Compass and Thermometer - using wiring typical in Gen 2 for either this option OR the overhead Thermometer/Compass module. FUTURE LINK WILL BE HERE.

The mirror in Little Big Red was just about the sloppiest OEM with no option you could imagine. Running over a seam in the road would knock it off adjustment. Just a very worn out nothing. Since my goal is to get as many current options (like in our car) as possible into the truck, this seemed like a great and not too expensive upgrade. And, another thing I could point out to the wife - "see, just like the car!" Well, I bought too many parts (want some?), but I got it done despite myself.

Links that are not here - that I will find in the build thread - let me find out where in the overhead console I might find wires for that external thermometer, as well as in the inside fuse block, and where they would be found going to the grille. I found I had INTERNAL wiring, no EXTERNAL wiring, and would need connectors for the fuse block. So, it's off we go (remember, Readers Digest version).

This is the mirror I am going to put in - it comes with it's own thermometer for the grille, so DON'T buy the Toyo sensor, or harness
https://www.autoextras.com/Rear-View-Mirrors-p/mito-50-genk20a.htm

Also, you will need the little cover from headliner to mirror.

$12 Gentex 50-9010227001M Long Windshield Mirror Plastic Wire Cover, Black

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PWKTUMC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I needed #18 but I won't post the link. You can find anywhere. Also, I needed some split loom, and could not get in my little town. Here is what I got.

$6 20 FT 1/4" INCH Split Loom Tubing Wire Conduit Hose Cover Auto Home Marine BlackMarine Black

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KW9RHYG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Since I had wires IN the cab, but not OUTSIDE, I did need the Tyco Connectors that would go in the fuse block inside. Crimp and or solder yourself, and PAY ATTENTION to the little tabs to install. Annoying that there is no pic, but they are called out in a link I can no longer find.

$11 Genuine Toyota Parts - Terminal, Repair W/W (82998-12440)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000MTKUMM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here we go. I poked around inside the main wiring pass through, and decided I did NOT want to cut insulation in the harness with a coat hanger. Discovered that the two wires would pass right through with the hood release cable! Did that. Someone posted a GREAT link for a new wiring pass through - planning on more wires - DO THAT. I will try to find the link and paste it here. Anyway, through the passthrough, and into the interior fuse access.



Then, harness the wires to existing and bring it to the grille;


This is where I soldered the TOYO connector I bought. Don't do that. Use the Gentex connector and sensor. I caused myself extra hours of work - they don't match, even though the Gentex mirror IS the OEM unit. Go figure.... Find a good place to clamp it behind the grille with the clamp they give you.



Meanwhile, back in the cab! You need to connect the outside wires into a fuse block harness plug.


Up in the top console. You find the wires for the thermometer, which are yellow and white in my world, and a SWITCHED hot wire. It looks like an OR when you are doing this. And when I find those detail posts, I WILL attach.


And after surgery, put the pugs back, and tuck the new wiring away. There is a small molded gap in the headliner for wiring, and where the little cover will fit.


And, amazingly, I have completed another project that only went 100% over budget (for the first time). So, what's next? But wait, there's more!

 

Congratulations on the new Tacoma!

I'm impressed with what you've done so far and what you're willing to tackle, specifically the paint.

Subbed.

 

Subbed. I like what you’ve done. I’m here looking to do the same thing- rejuvenate my stock 2007 dc which I haven’t babied at all- truck deserves some love. You’ve complied a lot of what I’m looking to do into one thread im stoked. Keep up the good work man it’s nice to see your progress and before/afters- motivates me.

 

Let's Get Under the Hood - (Phase Five - Nov 2017)

What records I have don't show that the plugs have ever been touched; just filters and oil changes and the like. I've only been hitting 17-18 mpg on limited trips. My other Tacomas were solidly in the 18-20 range, but those all had stock tires. So, how hard can a plug change be? Not too bad, except for the number one plug - buried under wiring and hardware that won't budge. Here goes.

Have to take off the engine cover, and move the intake duct work out of the way. Getting the cover off is simply 2 nuts and lift it off the clips on the back. Nope - no one been in there in a long while.... clean as I go. I used an upholstery cleaner on the cover underside - why not?



While I had the battery out, I cleaned off the shelf area. It was never well painted, and had some surface rust. I wanted to try out some touch up spray I got, and see if it was close to the variety of Impulse Red shades that were exterior. Ah, sort of. Fine for in here, and some cheap conformal as well will be fine.



On to the plugs. Passenger side is a breeze. Driver side is crowded, and plug one is a bitch. Since all the old plugs were "gapped" 0.90" thereabouts, and should be 0.41", I would guess someone replaced them at some point - or the factory did a terrible job! Pretty carboned up, but not much oil blow by at all. So, I think that is why the exhaust pipe is black, not a nice grey. Hopefully, I can change that over time. Along with the plugs, get some anti-seize to intall.

$39 NGK 6619 Iridium Spark Plugs LFR6AIX-11 - 6 PCSNEW

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IAGN4UY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$7 Permatex 81343 Anti-Seize Lubricant, 1 oz. Tube , White

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002UEOLO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

On the way through this process, I read a great TW post from a member who always cleaned the Throttle body and MAF Sensor when he changed his air filter, I thought that's just a darn good idea, since there so little else to remove. I did the air filter at the end of this, and just ran to WalMart for the cleaners. Clean behind the butterfly with a toothbrush or similar, and a rag. After I was done, I found a post addendum - four more bolts and you can just remove the throttle body - duh, easy. Look inside the air filter tube and you can see the MAF sensor. Don't touch! Just spray a bunch.



So, that was that. I put the filter in and closed it all back up. Yes, I painted the hold down red because I didn't have any black spray at all (amazing).

$15 EPAuto GP683 (17801-0P010 / CA9683) Replacement for Toyota Rigid Panel V6 Engine Air Filter for 4Runner (2003-2009), FJ Cruiser (2007-2009), Tacoma (2005-2015), Tundra (2005-2011)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GGQUR1S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It will run VERY rough until you burn all the cleaners out. Give it a couple minutes, and rev it a few times until it clears up. And, yes, those new plugs made a difference in how the engine sounds and runs. Probably won't make much MPG difference, these are still bricks on wheels, but running better is a good thing. Another Phase in the books, and I've only had it 2 months! But, wait, there's more!

 

Thanks guys! I've tried to keep my ideas to things I can do myself, for the most part. I should point out that while most of these projects could be done in a day, but I don't have to rush. When we got it late September 2017, we each had a working vehicle, so Little Big Red could just sit and let me spend a couple of days on it. Then, I got "surprise retired" in March, and now, I don't have to be anywhere normally! So, I can still take the extra time. So, don't believe for a minute this old fool gets these done in one or two hours! Thanks again.

 

Time to Have Some Fun & Merry Christmas! - (Phase Six, Dec 2017)

The old audio in a 2007 leaves a lot to be desired, in todays world. So, I am going to replace it - complete! The days of RED, BLACK, then 4 speaker wires are long gone! FIVE things the audio upgrade had to have;
1 Sirius/XM
2 Bluetooth phone,
3 Backup camera
4 Bluetooth/Aux input,
5 HD Radio (for what that is worth).
And, if I can find one with decent Nav.... great.
I am too old to do this one by myself! So, I enlisted my friends at JRs Auto Glass & Tint, for a very fair price. And my lovely wife picked up that install tab, so Merry Christmas! And so WE HAVE IGNITION! Old stuff, you are outta here!



First off, everything in my budget had very "spotty" lit available about their NAV. So, where am I going in this truck, where I don't know where I am going? Nowhere, normally. You know, that big old windshield will hold a bargain, refurbished Garmin, that can always be updated. And a little case. (I keep them inside, out of the heat, not out of fear.)

$110 Garmin DriveSmart 50 LMT-HD Navigation System (Renewed)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NBVH4O5/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Amazon Basics Hard Travel Carrying Case for 5" GPS, Black

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004I5BUSO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And, here is the head unit I picked - most of the associated items would still be the same, no matter which head you choose. For me, this had enough bang for the buck, AND, I don't need more watts or subs. I have hearing aids after a decade of working in Rock & Roll, then a Stock Car, then flying Field Service for another decade! What? I digress,


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N0YTO87/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And you have to by the stuff to convert the dash, and it comes with all this little stuff...that makes me very glad that I am passing on the install!


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0716PDQY9/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And the Sirius/XM Tuner & Kit (Yes, does NOT come with "XM Compatible heads"-it's extra)

$59 SiriusXM SXV300V1 Satellite Radio Vehicle Tuner - Add to Any SiriusXM-Ready Car Stereo

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NJTO4CY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And of course, the back up camera - I bought "Amazon Favorite", and a plate frame version, so no cutting or drilling would be needed. It's a little IR tinged, and not perfectly sharp, but it does work day and night. Someday, I might compare specs on some other similar.

Backup Camera License Plate Frame, Esky Car Night Vision Rear View Camera with 170 Degree Viewing Angle & 7 Bright LEDs, Universal Waterproof High Sensitive Vehicle Reverse Camera Assist Security

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GMC8QXI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Aaaaaand, I really wanted what steering wheel controls I had to still work, even though they won't work with the phone, the head units mutes when you get a call anyway. They were almost done with the install, and called me to ask if I had the "programmer" for the wiring kit. Programmer? Oh, yeah, you have to buy one of those..... But they got it done after I got it ordered. Have you counted these wires?

Maestro HRN-RR-TO1 Plug and Play T-Harness for TO1 Toyota Vehicles

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CDL2YAC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$138 Maestro ADS-MRR Universal Radio Replacement and Steering Wheel Interface

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E4W1644/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

OH, one more thing. I don't need a cigarette lighter, but I do need a USB and AUX port, since the head unit has them available ONLY on the back.... There is such a thing, but it sure has a lot of cord!

Twshouse USB Mount Cable - Rerii 2M 6 Feet USB and 3.5mm Aux Extention Mount, Flush, Dash, Panel Mount Cable for Car, Boat, Motorcycle

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00S6IO0NG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Man, that is a lot of stuff for such a small space! It took my pro friends really only one day, but we had to wait for the one part I missed for the steering wheel controls. The best thing they told me is that I got all the right stuff, and it went right together without issue. I guess that is good, because they gave me a box full of unused brackets and harnesses back at the end! So, how'd we do? It all works! XM, Radio, phone, back up, all of it!



Been enjoying it a lot. Sure is a big improvement, and since we were planning on turning in the wifes' leased RAV in March, now when she was stuck with the truck, it has some creature comforts. Happy. But, wait, there's more!

 

Light It Up! LEDification - (Phase Seven, Dec 2017)

Back to DIY stuff I can accomplish. I can replace lamps! And I was deciding that the interior was just the place to start. then I went totally nuts, and replaced EVERYTHING except headlamp and fogs. Because after I cleaned the lenses, those were just fine. And then, I got some cheap DRL LED to add to my Taco and my sons 2005 Prius. They were going to be a Christmas present install, but the Prius didn't make it home, and got replaced by a 2012 Prius that had DRL and MANY other options. So, I got them both.

Here is the ONLY real problem I found. 2007, all the plastic is old. Especially in Texas. And you may need to restore some bend to the metal in the sockets (jewelers drivers works just fine, unless you have a dental pick.) BUT, either all my sockets shrunk, or the Chinese LED replacements (which is what you will find, regardless of brand) are just EVERY SO SLIGHTLY smaller in the base construction. You know, all that plastic saved adds up. What I did, which you DON'T have to, is used a tapered toothpick to form a wedge, and then cut it off. It's an insulator, it won't be getting wet, and is soft enough to wedge in there just fine. No pics of that tho. I might have to add one, because one of the lamps I did not do that with.

NOW, remember that all of my links are for my 2007, and while I bet they are just fine for 2nd Gen Tacos - Toyota added such things as DRL and that may have changed your lamp in a given placement. Check your manual. You know you can download them for free at Toyota on line, right? Here we go! OH, and compared to getting one or two at a time at WallyWorld or local Auto, I just went with Amazon - some I got extra, some I didn't. Same of lower price. And I have spares.

My LED story started inside. I'd still like to find the right mod again that ties Map & Dome for open doors. But that can wait. Just the change to LED makes it plenty bright for now.

$9 Yorkim 194 LED Bulbs White 6000k Super Bright 5th Generation, T10, 168 LED Bulb for Car Interior Dome Map Door Courtesy License Plate Lights W5W 2825, Pack of 10

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JRE38EA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$8 Yorkim DE3022 led bulb Super Bright DE3175 Festoon LED Bulbs White, Error Free Canbus 6-SMD 5730 Chipsets, DE3021 LED Interior Car Lights 31mm LED Bulbs for dome map light - Pack of 4

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZKTXJA4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Well, THAT worked. How about some rear lights? It's gets harder to show the difference, because I am a one man show. "Believe me" (honest), there is a difference. First, back-up, tail, and blinker ON. Second, LED same conditions. It's hard to see the white BU light difference, but you can see it at night!


TURN/EMER:

ENDPAGE 3157 3156 3057 3056 LED Bulb 2-pack, Amber Yellow, Extremely Bright, 21-SMD with Projector Lens, 12-24V, Works as Turn Signal Blinker Lights

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073NZG3B9/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
TAIL:

ENDPAGE 3157 LED Bulb White 6000K 1000 Lumens Super Bright 12-24V Non-Polarity, 2-pack, Replacement for 3156 3057 3056 and Works as Back Up Reverse Lights, Tail Brake Lights, Turn Signal Blinkers

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071JD8SCW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
BACKUP:

$12 Alopee 4pcs 921 LED Bulb Reverse Light 6500K White 912 LED Bulb Non Polarity Canbus Error Free Back up Light Bulb for T15/902/904/906/579/W16W Reverse Bulb Backup Light 45SMD 4014 Chips 12~18V DC

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M13CB62/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

OK, at this point, testing reveals the dreaded HyperFlash for turn and emergency. SO, there is a relay for that, and since this is a Readers Digest version, only a few details. Thankfully, my youngest son is home for Christmas, and much more flexible. So, in between bowl games (yes, for 5th year, we got EVERY one checked off!) The relay is on the BACK side, of the interior driver side fuse panel. Door sill, kick panel, foot rest, and lower dash panel ALL have to come off. A true pain, and one of the reasons I always argued with the Engineers at work. So, thanks Mikkel, and the relay in question is the grey brown one in the picture I am pointing to. We did it. No HyperFlash.


RELAY:

$16 2005-2013 Toyota Tacoma LED Turn Signal Flasher, LM449 (CF18)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KQUXCNQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

On to the front. There were NO parking lamps anymore, both burned out. I replaced with one set that was the "direct replacement", and they were so wimpy, I went back and looker harder. Also, the EM/TURN lamps (for some reason), Toyo wanted 1157 equivalent, not 1156 - like the rear. Also to note, I was NOW going to forever use the Parking light as my DRL lighting, so I could turn off the headlights and not use them up. I think in 2008 or 2009, Tacoma's GOT a dedicated DRL. Also, I did not want to do the mod that converts the EM/TURN to DRL - mostly because that was a LOT of fuse box wiring.


TURN/EMER:

$20 Alla Lighting 2x Super Bright Amber Yellow 4157NAK LED Bulbs Front Turn Signal Blinker Light Lamps Compatible with 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Tacoma

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0753337FZ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
PARKING: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073NZG3B9/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Last step, the Christmas present DRL. I am posting the link, but they are not available anymore anyway. The reason I picked them is that the old 05 Prius and Gen2 Tacos have a similar lower grille. I thought these brackets would fasten in some way - without butchering the grille. Decent guess for the price. The little brackets had like #00 screws to fasten to the lamp section. NP! I will Loctite them in place. PROBLEM. Loctite MELTED the plastic housing! JB Epoxy and tape time, because I had already made my harness. (And no pix?) Rescued, and used large "C" clips to hold them to the plastic, and they still work. On the list to replace, but I am NOT destroying the grille. I will make some kind of mounting plate. OH, I just tied the power to the parking light hot. Yes, it is soldered and harnessed. And I have a relay to install to the headlight circuit to turn them off when headlights on. Coming soon!


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JO6JBYW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That's it. 2017 is over. SEVEN projects? Man. I'm not done yet. But, wait, there's more!

 

Long Awaited Carpet Replacement & Start of Just for Fun! (Phase Eight - May, 2018)

Well, this seems like a long pause, but I had finished all that I had planned so that we had a comfortable driver. TPMS service and investigation (Just go to DISCOUNT TIRE!), and minimal other things. February, I got sent to Eindhoven, NED for special training. (Pizza is the only important thing, world wide)

March, they "retired" me! Go figure. Not complaining, I got a very fair deal for 37 years of service for the (multiple, under one legal roof) companies I worked for. I started at the bottom, and at least got to where I was "special & important". Close enough. My advice? Do what no one else wants to.

So, again, I digress. I was waiting for a spring day to steam clean the interior with the wife's Hoover machine, and attack the ragged mats. And I had been ogling a replacement grille (just because). And I wanted to get the bug deflector - some of you call them rock deflectors (NO WAY!) - but they do reduce the bird and bugs on the highway. Had one on all the others. And that is kind of why I got the different grille. Can't stand the parallel wire versions, and had not seen any other 2nd gen that were different. Here we go again!

First, let's just go around the Taco and be happy that it is steam cleaned inside, and polished and waxed outside! And doesn't the sun look good on a Sunburst Impluse? Why the Hibiscus? I have (according to my wife), 18 around the pool, 3 out front, and she does not know how may cuttings in the greenhouse! Wanna buy a flower, buddy?)



Next the mats. Remember, Readers Digest. First, the old - and the steam cleaner did literally NOTHING. Then, the AutoAnything "custom" mats, finally, all the way from Australia mate, mats that fit. When I get rich again, I will buy their custom top of the line, but they only come in black. The cool thing about these was that I could get custom RED stitching that ABSOLUTELY NO ONE WILL EVER SEE! AT NO EXTRA CHARGE!. Life is good in Australia. (And, the KIA has black mats in a grey interior...hmmm.. when I wear these out.)


Here's the link to the folks, not the product: https://www.fitmycar.com/us/ They are a total pleasure to deal with

Jeez, it gets hard to remember what went next. AH, the BugFlector, or what some of you call a "rock deflector". Ain't going to stop no rocks folks, but does a generally great job with bird shit. They sent me crap fasteners this time (a first), so I used my stock of the big plastic assortment *get one*!

$15 Sunplustrade 240 Pcs Bumper Clips Car Clips Plastic Rivets Fasteners Push Retainer Kit Most Popular Sizes Auto Push Pin Rivets Set - GM Ford Toyota Honda Chrysler

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MEHSLZT/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
OK I bought it from someone. I will find it. Here it is:
https://www.autoanything.com/deflectors/avs-bug-deflectors

Then, I traded a bunch of Amazon credits on this, because no one else has one. I don't like "bar wire" grilles, and you can pretend to have a TRD if you want. Mostly, it's black, and doesn't make the bugflector look like a mustache. Not that hard to install. Two bolts, yank up. Haven't seen anyone else with this, so that is a break. Beautiful, I don't know. But it's mine.

EAG Replacement Upper Grille ABS Black Mesh Front Hood Grill Fit for 05-11 Tacoma

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J1TJHAU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And, no, not offended if you don't like it.

INSPIRED BY TW POST NOT VISBLE for now, I'm sure pros can do better, but I had fun, and will freak out every TOYO tech from now on. Plastic does not like tape, and you can do better. But fun and cool.



And there you go. Only a few more to catch up with. These are mostly DIY, so don't be intimidated! And of course, but, wait, there's more! Peace and thrills.

 

VERY clean truck! I love the Impulse red pearl. I need to do some clear touch up on the roof of mine. Love the way its coming together, Ill be sticking around for more!

 

The I forgot something add (Phase eight, May 2018)

I forgot that this is where I put the RedLine Tuning hood lifts in! My bad.


https://www.redlinetuning.com/product-p/21-27010-02.htm

But, wait, there's more!

 

Ive been wanting to do that since I got my truck. We have done a lot of the same things, I got the exact same backup cam, painted my engine cover and all the typical stuff too like LEDs.

 

Thanks for the likes. Checked out your build, and VERY nice. Great looking truck!

 

It's JUST a Phase I'm going through! Random items and dates since Oct 2017

Hey, "stubby' antennas are cool (I'm told). While cruising for the next stereo on Amazon, I find this bargain! Actually, for the old radio it DID work better. For the new one, NOT so much. Voted off the show. If you'd like it, and come to TTC meet ups around Austin, I will deliver it to you free of charge! THUMBS DOWN for performance.

Whizzotech Lexus Scion TRD Carbon Radio Stubby Fiber Black Aluminum Alloy Screw Antenna Mast 4.7" (Black)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FFADYVG?ie=UTF8

My oldie only came with one VERY battered and bent key, and a remote that was about to fall apart. Hey, you can get that stuff, BUT, ONLY Toyota dealer would touch the keys for programming - AND - if they didn't work: tough. They really want you to buy the key from them. Quoted $150 PER key, and one time programming charge (for any number of keys bought). What could they do wrong? Well, nothing wrong. I have two programmed keys at a few bucks, and $100 programming. The key fobs, much better deal. Only took two tries to program, now I am a regular 2 key person. And then, there was this fob.... THUMBS UP FOR ALL, because you have to have keys!

$15 KeylessOption 2 Replacement Uncut Ignition Chipped Key Transponder Blank for Toyota Dot Chip

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KTHXKMO?ie=UTF8

BestKeys R-Toy-302 Keyless Entry Remote Key Fob

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0068OZ25K?ie=UTF8

$18 TOYOTA Tacoma Oval Style Metal Key Chain Key Fob

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KC7F58S?ie=UTF8

Then, there was this TW thread....you know how you are. AC control knobs! YES! My panel is beat up - new knobs will make it look like a 2018 PRO! I just know it will! THUMBS UP, because the $10 ish bucks is FAR less than I have stupidly spent elsewhere, and, actually, they look OK. Even better at night!

Thor-Inst Pack of 3 Special Interior A/C Fan Air Conditioning Knob Heat Control Switch Button Compatible Tacoma & VIOS(2002-2006) Vela Vitz YARI, Replacement Knob Cover Cap Decor Trim (SILVER)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07677FK52?ie=UTF8

I'll be adding to this as other stupid entertainment presents itself. As always. But, wait, there's more!

 

Very nice progress with the truck so far!