1st gen grill interchangeability

Just replaced the core support on a 96 tacoma I bought that had been in some sort of front end accident. Grill needs replacing too.

Will the later 1st gen grills fit on a 96?

 

The headlamps are different, you can modify the 96 grille to look different if you want a newer look.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/95-97-satoshi-build.202201/

 

I need new headlamps anyway, low not working on one side. Any reason I couldn't buy a newer grill as well as the newer lamps to match?

 

The core supports are different between the facelifts (95.5-97, 99-00, 01-04 assuming you're 4wd). If you stuck with a '96 core support the '96 grille and lights will fit best.

If you do want to swap, you're looking at grille, headlights, headlight buckets, inserts (the little trim bit between the headlights and the bumper), corner lights, and bumper if you want to do the complete swap. Depending on the swap you might need a bit of drilling/cutting/filing and some assorted small hardware.

There are a few threads detailing various swaps. You might not find exact instructions for the swap you want, but the different threads will at least give you a sense of what's involved.

 

Ill just stick with the 96 stuff, thanks guys

 

I think that's a wise choice. It's a good-looking face, and you keep the standard 5x7 glass headlights. The later-model front ends have plastic lenses that tend to yellow over time. I've thought about swapping to the earlier face just to get those lights.

If you still want a different look, a 96 5-lug grille should fit with no other changes.