First Time Taco Owner :) - '98 TRD

Hey friends! I am a few days into my first Tacoma (though I've toyed with getting one for a while). I'm not very mechanically adept and she will need lots of attention but I'm hoping with some patience and a good community behind me I'll get there. I'm excited to get out and explore the Utah deserts once I have confidence she'll get me in and out in one piece. Since I'm so new to these trucks and far from a skilled mechanic I'm learning more and more about the work ahead of me. I bought a '98 TRD extended cab with a rebuilt title. It was hit on the driver front fender hard enough to deploy the airbag in 2017 but has since been used as a worktruck for the past few years. The frame is not rusty or rotted or bent, it shifts smooth (manual trans) and besides being a little ugly on the outside, seems to be a solid runner.

200k miles V6

Here's a summary of what I'm dealing with, if anyone could post links or lead me in the right direction I'd love to hear it!

I know there's a valve cover leak and I have no idea when the timing was done but that's something I planned to outsource.

4x4 works but the dash light has never come on. elocker does not engage but remains flashing. I couldn't source an 8in diff rebuilt kit (in stock) anywhere but I also haven't fully diagnosed if it's electrical, the actuator unit, or something else (not a fuse). Part of me thinks(hopes) it could be related to my next issue which is it seems several vacuum lines are busted and dangling.

My fuse box by the battery is also busted up but finding a replacement seems impossible...

If there are any Utahns on here who are knowledgeable and willing to help teach me about my truck I'll trade for beers or whatever!

Anyway, I'm still very excited about this and willing to do what it takes to get back in the desert once we get lows above 35

 

Welcome to TacomaWorld
Vacuum hose replacement is easily accomplished
Lots of DIY here
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...-thread-compiled-list-of-helpful-links.95271/

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome to The Forum!

 

Thanks guys! Black Dog that link will save me a TON of time searching I'm sure, thank you!

 

Welcome to TW!