01 or 02 DC 4x4 deal and rear dif lock question

Ive been looking for a 1st gen DC 4x4 for quite a whIle to buy. I came across one a 2001 with 125000 miles. It does not have the rear dif lock. How hard and how much would it be to install on one? AND what's a good deal for this truck? No frame rust and fully inspected by toyota. Just has a pretty good dent in drivers side door is the only thing wrong with it. We've negotiated down to 9500. Good deal?

I've also got another one found an 02 DC 4x4 with dif lock 222000 miles. As clean as could be and new frame by toyota. Price $8500. Maybe have him talked down to $8000.

Idk if this one is more worth it because of the new frame and no cosmetic issues or the other one with low miles.

Please give me your input. Looking forward to being back in a tacoma. Thanks!

 

I will also mention that the 01 is at the max of my budget for a truck. The 02 I now have talked down to 8000. Gives me a little more of relief on budget. Leaning more towards the 02 for that reason and how clean it is

 

If you're dead set on getting a locker it can be done straightforwardly, personally I would just find one with it to avoid the headache. As for the one with almost 230k miles I wouldn't bother. Not saying it's high but eventually you'll need to maintain a few parts and ends.

My opinion: find another one

 

Regarding your budget that kinda changes things, for that price is not that bad and chances are someone else will be looking at it if you don't pick it up. Do what you got to do, it's your money.

 

Dont get.hung up on it having a locker or not. They can be added after the fact if you really want one. Heck lots of people hardly ever use theirs...not saying you wont but it just shouldnt be a make it or break it type of thing ya know?