I'm in the market for my first Tacoma!

Hey everyone!

I just joined the forum, and this is my first post. I'm selling my current vehicle and have decided to buy a 1st gen Tacoma after the sale. I'm a furniture maker so I'll on occasion be hauling around lumber and tools, but I'll also be using the truck for fun (I would like to start Overlanding).

Below is what I think will best suit my needs, if you think otherwise please share why.

I'm looking for a 1st gen, 4x4 with a 5 speed, 2 doors or xtra-cab, and preferably a v6. I'm a little vain so the cleaner, the better.

I'm looking to spend $10,000-$15,000 - if your truck doesn't fall within those numbers, please feel free to share what you've got!

Thank you in advance.

Andrew

 

Welcome to the forum.

Just be warned... this place is known to make people make very poor financial decisions with their vehicles


It's the most expensive "free" membership ever.

 

I seem to only dive headfirst into expensive hobbies, so this must mean I'm in the right place.

 

Yep... this is the right place.

 

Where are you located. It'll give a better understanding of what you may be looking for and looking OUT for, on a 1st Gen Tacoma.

 

Rust issues will be the 1st thing to look out for especially if the truck is in or from the Rust belt or east coast,
The rear shock mounts and inside frame sections have to be inspected regardless by removing the spare tire,
Typically even a Rust free tacoma can be rusting here in these spots because the design of no drainage or mud plugged in there holding water

 

@1997tacomav6 hits the nail on the head. Anywhere in the rust belt is going to require very good inspection. Anywhere in the south west is going to probably end up coming at a higher cost.

 

I'm one of those...

 

Welcome to TW!

Like everyone else is saying, if you are in the snow belt and/or buying a truck from the snow belt, make sure
you have the frame thoroughly inspected. Obviously, you're also going to want to make sure the title is clean, and look over the body carefully to make sure it wasn't previously damaged.

 

I'm in south florida so I shouldn't have to worry about rust from snow and salt damage.

 

Proximity to the ocean may still prove problematic. ALSO, as I am sure you are well aware, there are a lot of people who have moved to Florida from States that salt roads. You definitely need to be thorough in your inspection of the frame on any first gen you are considering.