First changes to your 2nd Gen Tacoma

Hey all, new Tacoma owner and first time poster. I bought a 2015 Long bed TRD Sport Tacoma a couple weeks back. The first thing I did was add a high rise ARE topper since I want to build a tool storage bed/sleeping area but there are other things Im sure I should do to. What are your first mechanical checks and changes you would recommend a new Taco owner? I plan to use the truck for everyday use but also hunting, fishing, camping, general all around fun. I attached a quick pic of the new rig too for anyone that cares. Thanks again for any and all suggestions!

 

Welcome Ethan

 

Stereo. Use it every day and couldn't live without Bluetooth.

 

Welcome! The first upgrade I would do is a good set of tires that fit what you plan on doing with the pickup and upgrade the suspension. Even if that means just doing shocks, it will make a big difference in the ride quality.

Biggest advice is try to keep everything as light as you can. Your truck will thank you down the road.

 

Welcome to the Taco Family. That is a sweet Rig.

 

Welcome and nice truck you scored there. Here's what I did coming from a 2000 Dodge Dakota Quad cab 4x4 to a 2007 Access cab Prerunner. Right away I notice the road noise in the cab of the Tacoma was much louder than the Dakota. So within a week or so, I gutted the whole cab, including the doors and headliner. Then over a weekend I added a two part sound deadening anywhere and everywhere I could. While the cab was stripped I also upgraded the speakers. Followed up with some hood insulation and hood lifts. The sound deadening and speakers made a big difference in making the cab more enjoyable while driving.

Adding the cap and your plans to build a tool storage and bunk area you should think about beefing up the suspension in the rear. I know my Leer cap weighs 200+lbs. I've always have had caps on my trucks and with that I've used the Roadmaster Active Suspension (RAS) on them. After the leaf spring recall on the Tacoma it didn't take long before it seemed like the truck was sagging a little more when hauling my dirt bike on the hitch carrier or when pulling my utility trailer with 2 or 3 dirt bikes. To help with this I added the blue Sumo Springs. It did the trick and works great in conjunction the RAS. I already had the RAS on my rig, so the SumoSprings may be all you need.

Some things to think about. Enjoy your new truck!

 

The most important thing you can do is figure out what maintenance is due, then get it done. I'd check the service history (available by searching your VIN on Toyota's website) and comparing it against the recommended service intervals here:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2nd-gen-diy-maintenance-quick-reference-guide.438945/

That'll allow you to establish a baseline so you can keep everything up-to-date.

Once you have that figured out, I'd take a look at the frame to check for rust. Rusted-out frames are one of the few things that will kill 2nd gens. Fluid Film is your friend.

I'd also consider the uni-filter mod for the secondary air pump. Cheap and easy insurance against engine damage.

 

Do the LED dome light swap - best thing I ever did for $8 or something. Every time I get in the truck in my garage or at night I can actually see in the interior!

 

Laser measured floor mats especially if you hunt in the rain and snow I got the husky brand I like them work great easy clean up and you will prally start to notice some sag in the rear leafs once you load her down and take it down the trail afew times

 

No suggestions but I like your mismatched topper

 

Welcome to Tacoma World !
I hunt and fish too. I think I put my shell on and Weathertech mats first then LED lights to see better at night.

Nice rig !

 

If you're going to use the bed a lot, including crawling in and out and sitting on the tailgate, you should consider getting a tailgate reinforcement plate.
Our Taco tailgates are on the flimsy side.