Changing gears

Newbie here, first post. I am looking to buy a 1998-2003 tacoma, ext cab, 4x4 with 2.7 engine, 5 sp. manual. Tried one out the other day and had to get engine up to real high rpm to change into next gear. Just did not seem right to me. I have owned a couple of older Toyota trucks; 1986, 1989, and this was not the case. If I tried to change gears at what I thought was a reasonable rpm, the truck would start jumping and I would have to go back to the lower gear. The seller told me that he always had to get the truck up to a high rpm to change the gears. On the interstate, he said he rarely placed the truck in 5th gear. On the interstate, i had to get up to about 75 mph before it would quit jumping while in 5th gear. The truck was lifted about 6 in. and had oversized tires on it. Other than than, the truck seemed to be fine. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

Hi and welome to TW I have a 08 stock 4 banger 5 speed wish it had another gear on the interstate 2500 + rpms at 65-70. I am sure someone can help maybe there is thread here somewhere about it anyway welocome.

 

Welcome to TW from Sparks, NV
When I put my 33" mudders on I don't have any problems. Can't use 5th on some hills but that's to be expected without regearing. Another local runs 35"s on his 4Banger.