How to internet 101

I feel like some people could use a PSA that would make everyone's lives a bit nicer.

1. Before starting a new thread, figure out what you want to ask or discuss. I mean really figure it out. "I want a lift, bro" doesn't mean squat. On the other hand, "I want to clear 285s on my '16 Tacoma" helps both of us: you have a specific goal in mind, and I have a specific set of requirements to give you information on.

If you have a question, provide the necessary background info so people can actually help you. "What's better, a 4Runner or a Tacoma?" is a meaningless post. Explain why you're considering the two models, what your needs and budget are, etc. Give people the info they need to help you.

2. Search, search, search. Every single topic has been beat to death a dozen times over, and the information you want is out there. If you've searched and can't find something specific to your use case, by all means start a new thread.

Bumping existing threads helps consolidate information and makes it easier for others to find in the future. It keeps the forum clean, and avoids the nightmare of 600 threads on the same subject - good luck finding anything useful in that scenario.

Learn some Google-fu, and you will be lightyears ahead of those without the skills to find what they need. Don't search for generic, useless terms like "tacoma lift" unless you're interested in generic information. Search for terms specific to your application, and avoid meaningless "filler" lingo. Brush up on Google's advanced search operators - specifically things like "site:" and exclusion and inclusion operators.

Don't search for "how do I lift a tacoma." Search for "2016 tacoma lift clear 285." The more specific your search, the more accurate your search results, but don't fall into the trap of using overly specific search terms (ex. "2016 magnetic grey long bed tacoma lift clear 285 KO2 sporty ride") that are not likely to be present on most threads/pages discussing the info you're after. Aim for the golden middle, and tweak the search according to results.

3. Give your threads meaningful titles. Titles like "Another stupid question" are pointless: they don't convey the subject of the thread and people with knowledge of that subject may simply skip over them. Just a few threads lower you'll see the polar opposite in "First Oil Change at 10,000 Miles?" - bam, just like that, from the title alone, everyone knows exactly what the thread is about. It's in your best interest to write a title that will attract the readers that can help you. On the flip side, don't fall into the click-bait routine ("Six Tacoma mods the dealership DOESN'T WANT you to know about!"). Use common sense.

It all comes down to proper communication. Learn to communicate with those around you, and your life will get better - I guarantee it.

/mic drop

 

Bravo, great post.

 

Really well said. 99% of the threads I read could be avoided with some simple Google-fu

 

" Thread of The Year." Right here.

 

This shit should be stickied and a required read for all new members.

 

So did anyone find out if they could clear 285s?

 

All I can say is welcome to the Internet, where no one does what you want.

#2. Ain't going to happen. The only thorough search most people ever do is for the perfect wank material.

 

She puts the lotion on the skin!!!

 

I'm not clear what this thread is about.

 

Great thread! But why in 3rd gen section? It does apply to all members...

 

You should start a thread asking what this thread is about.

 

Can one of you tell me where I click to start a new thread about my low transmission fluid levels?

While I may not have great chops here I'm a moderator on a different vehicle forum. And you Tacoites bring failing to search to an art form. Just the fact that all the threads are lumped into a single 3rd gen sub, makes it very difficult to review open threads. But FFS, look through the first two pages prior to creating a new thread.

 

What else you drive though?

Or should i start a new thread to ask