2013 Reg Cab 4 speed auto DD/wheeler, worth the effort?

Hello Tacoma World, I'm back in California and looking into building up my Taco. It is a 2013 Regular Cab 4x4. The truck is solid except for one thing, the 4 speed transmission. I would sell it, but finding another 2 door that is 4x4 and a 5 speed would not be easy in this market. The one's I find are way higher in miles and a salvage title. So the big question is, would it be worthwhile to turn my truck into a DD/wheeler?

I want lift it about 3", put on 285s (may want to go a little bigger in the future), and add bumpers and armor over time. I plan on regearing at some point as well and probably lockers at the same time. The 2.7l isn't a powerhouse, but would the 4 speed hold the truck back too much?

I've searched the forums on this topic but I figured I would try to consolidate some input into this thread. Thanks for reading!

 

Welcome to TW James. I also own a 2013 Regular cab 4WD with the automatic transmission.

As far as your question goes, do you want the truck to be a DD or a wheeler? To me, that’s two very different set ups. You mentioned lift, bumpers and re-gearing, so I think you’re leaning towards a wheeler type set up.

I am not aware of any inherent issues with the 4 speed automatic transmission. Although added weight and re-gearing certainly would alter the “performance” of the trans.

Here’s another area of TW to check out regarding the 2.7L trucks.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/the-2-7l-single-cab-thread.197043/

Good luck with your truck!