New to me 2013 4x4 needs service and upgrades Recommendations Please!

Hi folks!

Our family just picked up a 2013 Tacoma TRD 4x4 with 110,000 kms or 68k miles. My 3.5 year old calls it the rocket truck - we love it. I'd be grateful for some advice and tips though as I'm new to the tacoma scene and I've got a few questions below. Thanks in advance!

1. The front shocks are spent as the driver side easily bottoms out on the numerous speed bumps and roads/trails in our small Mexican town. I'm considering a lift but would want it to be functional vs cosmetic. I do however like the look of level'ing the front end. I'd consider a different wheel/tire combination that the stock rims and 265's once this rubber has tired but don't plan to do this just yet. Any recommendations and budget ballparks most welcome! Bilstein 5100 seems like a safe bet that I could probably find down here?

2. The previous owner had it for a year but bought it from a police auction as it was stolen and there's no maintenance records. I'm going to try and find a mechanic here to check all fluids and ask around for a recommendation to get a lift and suspension modification. I'd love to know a little more about what to look for at this mileage though.

3. Rack? We'd like to start throwing some surf and paddle boards on the roof but also anticipate having some people in the bed as well. Any rack recommendations?

4. Here's an odd one. It's hot here and I don't wear a shirt and these seats seem to pull at every hair on my back. Any recommended seat covering options to avoid this?

5. The steering wheel material has worn down pretty good and chafes rather than slides through the hands. Any remedies out there?

6. The local gas down here is 87 octane for regular or 91 for premium. Back home in Canada the regular is 89 so I'm wondering if the 87 is ok?

That about covers it. Thanks for the help folks!

 

Welcome to TW, John!

1. 5100’s are fine. Better than OE shocks.

2. U-joints, Diff fluids, Transfer Case fluid, and it wouldn’t hurt to drain and fill the Transmission.
Check the spark plugs and change them if needed.

3. I have no recommendation on a rack. I’ve never owned one.

4. I have 2 types of seat cover. One set were custom made. I bought them when I bought the truck.
I then put on a “quick cover” style by Eclipse. I believe a company called Gorla makes them now.
They are quick and easy to put on, and easy to wash. I’d buy a cheap full set, and throw on the Gorla.
https://www.gorlagear.com/

5. My steering wheel is starting to do this too. One day, I’ll probably go with something like the ones in this link. https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/steering-wheel-cover-recommendations.635338/

6. I run 87 octane in mine 95% of the time. I think you will be just fine.