97' Tacoma, What first?

I have a stock 97' Tacoma (2.4 liter, 4 in-line) and I'm looking to use it more off road. What recommendations do you all have to make it a better vehicle for off roading purposes?

 

I would think a nice set of tires would be a start, very popular but expensive are the BFG's AT KO's, but what to look for in tires are good cleaning ability and aggressive shoulders. Once you get a few trail miles under your belt with the new tires maybe a 3" lift would be another mod, kind of have to make those calls after experiencing some of the "ups and downs" of off roading.

 

Invest in some recovery gear.

 

As in tow straps? If so I'm looking into buying some

 

Ya with a stock truck u will if ur wheelin the right way need some tow straps and probably a hi lift

 

Yes

 

A lift to clear bigger tires.

 

good street/off road performer would be 2.5"-3" lift 32-33" tires and free up the intake/exhaust (K&N filter, performance muffler) keep some straps gloves and a highlift or a good come-along in the truck... they are great offroaders even in stock trim use a decent set of all terrain or maybe mild mud terrain tires if you drive on-road alot

 

Thanks a lot for all the input, now I gotta start saving up

 

Is everything *up to par* with maintenance?

Taking these trucks offroad puts them through a lot more stress than daily driving. Make sure the truck is fully maintained and functioning properly before going offroad.

Your truck will do just fine the way it is without modifications. Your best bet is to join a local offroad club and *learn the ropes* of responsible & safe offroading - including how to drive. NEVER offroad alone!
Here's some tips:
http://www.lieblweb.com/tacoma/General/OffroadTip/OffroadTips.html

As you gain more offroad experience...you'll soon learn what modifications you'll wanna tackle. But for now..... make sure your tow hooks are attached properly & tightly and get yourself a good tow strap.

 

for my '97 Tacoma, the first thing (after i took delivery and all the extra weather packaging was completed) was to gently break-in the engine (no uber high RPMs) and get the first oil change at 1k miles in Alton Illinois

 

off road meaning what? it is different in many places in the US... boulder hopping, Moab slick rock, West coast desert/sand dunes, mudding in the south east, snow in the northern latitudes or just making sure that when you go camping you don't get stuck.

 

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