Got a 1st gen tacoma as my first truck!!!

Welcome aboard! That is a great first vehicle and you're in the midst of many knowledgeable enthusiasts and friends. We're glad to have you.

 

The standard bolt-on lift is an Old Man Emu kit, like this one: It's a proper, performance-oriented lift, where the ride height is gained through taller springs.

Similar lifts are available using Bilstein 5100 shocks. Some people prefer Bilstein over OME. I have no opinion myself, but you'll find plenty if you search the forum. Many people have been in the same position as you and had the same questions--the lift options for these trucks haven't changed much over the past 10 years.

Cheaper lifts use blocks or spacers to gain height. They won't look any different from 10 feet away, but they won't ride or flex as well as a spring lift. Block/spacer lifts can also cause problems--the front shocks may bottom out during aggressive driving and the rear axle may wrap (google "axle wrap").

The kit I linked to gives you the choice of new leaf packs or an add-a-leaf. Given the age of the truck, it's probably worthwhile to spend the money on new leaf packs. Make sure the packs you get are specifically labeled for 95-97 Tacomas. The early trucks use a different (shorter) leaf spring than 98-04.

 

Welcome aboard David..,. nice ride ya got there!!

 

Ok yeah I have definitely heard good things about OME… How difficult is it to install? My dad works with cars a lot and has fixed the issues on my truck with me so far (alternator, power steering, etc.) Is it something we could do ourselves? Also what is the difference when it says assembled v unassembled about the front coilovers and shocks? Thanks

 

Also under rear lifts both options say Add-a-Leaf, but one says toytec progressive 3 add a leaf pack (pair) (+$189), and the other just says toytec rear add a leafs. Which did you say I should get? Sorry for my lack of knowledge…

 

nice truck!! if i could write my 16 year old self a note by sending it back in a time machine:

calm the hell down!! i would drive it as is for awhile. save some money up. you started off gobs better than my first car. learn the typical preventative maintenence stuff and really decide what you want to do. my note to my 16 yr old self would be to focus on school and take all that money i spent on my 1971 camaro and buy Google and Apple stock. i would be retired at 40.hahaha...

then i can go crazy. that first car is long long gone, and so is the money i pooped into it.

 

You should be able to find exactly what you need on this site. Master mechanics and endless resources are available. Work on it in stages and you'll eventually get it where you want it.