1st gen 5 lug Taco build

Hey guys!

I'm relatively new to everything that is car/truck related, I do as much research as I can and I'm looking to build my truck into a a mid travel kit prerunner, ultimate goal would be a long travel fully built prerunner but everything in due time.
I'm currently looking for parts that aren't going to break the bank and can lift my truck roughly 3 to 4 inches. I want to put meaty 31' tires, better shocks and the suspension components necessary to keep the truck running buttery smooth and fun as hell.
Input is much appreciated.

2000 white tacoma
Ext. Cab
Sr5
2.4l 2rzfe

 

Welcome to TW!!

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome @L1L_TACO There’s so much good info on this forum. Good luck! Have fun!

 

Hey TW!
After a year of research, working, and finally remembering my login.
I'm happy to say I've made progress on my taco!

I was on a full stock height suspension with clapped out shocks. So I had put on 4 OE style KYB EXCEL-G shock (very smooth might I add). And for wheels I had stock 14" steelies with 205/70r14 98T all season Lizetti tires (decent tire in decent conditions, Slid in the rain like crazy).

I just worked out a deal not too long ago to swap suspensions with another 5 lug taco that was lifted.
I think it makes a huge difference and it feels great for the most part.

I'm now on basic fab tech springs and upper control arms in the front that lifted the truck I think 2.5"-3", accompanied by KYB GAS-A-JUST shocks. In the rear I have industrial air inflatable shocks (don't know the brand or name) and Rough Country leaf added to the pack. Raising the rear around 4" I believe. I also bought Pro Comp 51 series 15"x7" rims (P/N 51-5766) and wrapped them with Toyo Open Country A/T II 225/75r15 102S (which helped raise the truck another 3" more or less).
I've also swapped the stock steering wheel for a no name after market wheel hub that was meant for a civic of the same year, a NRG slim quick release kit and a grip royal steering wheel. I also have the cheesy beer tap handle gear shifter that looks cool but I take off when I put my truck in action.
Oh! And I also found a roll bar on craigslist for $40, it had minimal rust and a sloppy black paint job. But after some angle grinding with a flap disk, modifying the mounting plates, welding on some hooks for practicality, and a trip to the powder coaters. I got myself a rad roll bar.


I absolutely love the way my truck looks and feels, but I notice when I'm on the free way (60+ mph) the steering wheel rattles/wobbles a bit and I'm not sure if that's normal or not but I definitely want to solve that issue. Anyone have the same issues ? Any solutions? All comments and responses are appreciated!

My short term goals are to give the truck a fresh coat of white paint all around or maybe change the color to matte black, Either or. Start lightly modifying the engine so it's still reliable but has more power to move the tires; stabilize the steering and lift the front another inch or two with functional parts.