Hey everyone!! Yep! I'm knew and learning

I just purchased a project which will also be my sons first truck. It's a 1998 tacoma single cab. It has a lift and TRD decals along with a after market heavy duty front bumper. It's pretty beat up and I'm not sure if it's a TRD package. I changed the tires and rims because, well they didn't belong on it, honestly I couldn't even guess what they went on! Any way, here I am, confused but learning!!

 

Welcome to TW.

 

Welcome!!

Projects are fun.... just take it slow & do LOTS & LOTS of research.

I hope you did your homework before buying it - in paticular - the frame rust issue. If you're not familiar with the frame rust issue - I wouldn't do anything to that truck until you familiarize yourself with the issue. In a nutshell - Toyota has a warrantee on the frames because they're rusting from the inside out...
You could have Toyota inspect it and if they deem it 'failed' - I think they keep the truck and give you decent $$ for it. You don't have to have it inspected... However - just make sure you're full aware of the issue and if your truck frame is good or bad.

I work with a lady who her son owned a 96. The frame broke in half while he was driving it....luckily, it didn't fall apart and he was able to get it to the side of the road.

I hope I wasn't the bearer of bad news..... but, if you don't already know about it - you should!!

Good Luck!

 

I was unaware of the rust issue but now understand when I brought the truck to a mechanic to inspect prior to purchasing it, he went under it and was pulling and shakeing and spent more time then with the engine. Now I understand why! Thanks

 

Welcome to TW!

 

welcome!!

 

Welcome to TW

 

Welcome

 

Welcome!

Woot! 1st gen resurrection!

This is one of the most useful links to 1st gen truck how-to and maintenance (and mods) on this forum:

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/1s...y-how-thread-compiled-list-helpful-links.html

You should also snag a copy of the factory service manual (stickied at the top of the 1st gen forum).

Be sure to check out the suspension and wheels/tires forums, too. Take a lot of pics of the suspension and post them up, and everyone here will be able to help you evaluate it for quality, safety, and your (and your son's) intended use.

Regarding TRD or not TRD, look on the dashboard to the lower right of the steering wheel. There should be a rear diff lock button if it is TRD. If you take a picture of the decal, too, we may be able to tell if it was added, but the diff lock is key.

 

Welcome, lots of first gen fans here. You came to the right place.

 

Welcome aboard!

 

Welcome to TW!