Learn me up good

Yeah i think it was just a standard ole option for those early models. I didnt think ADD was around from the start too but it was. My buddy has a 95.5 with ADD and elock. No 4hi button though, just plain j shift transfer. Not sure when the button appeared?

 

A lot has been said already so here's my input. 2000 isn't the same as the 2001-04 models. With the 03-04 you'll get Power ECT should you go with an automatic (all double cab configs are autos IIRC) and this is like a tow/haul mode which can come in handy for stop and go traffic and merging onto the highway. TRD models will have an elocker so when looking for one be sure on the left side of the dash there's a RR Diff Lock button (as some people have been duped).
And yes rust is the primary issue with these trucks. Things you should look for are the coveted TRD supercharger. That is all.

 

I think the button came with the 01-04 models, or started somewhere in there. But the J-shifter lasted throughout, I've seen an '04 with the j-shifter

 

I have push button 4wd on my 98 Limited.

 

I thought maybe that feature was around before '01. Good to know...

 

I think it depends on the package and configuration, limiteds and double cabs.

 

My thoughts fit with your KISS plan.

Decide the body and driveline configurations you want.

Focus your search on that.

Dig deep in pre purchase inspections, including 'where it's lived' (car fax?), the condition of the frame, maintenance records available and a compression/leakdown test especially on anything over 100k or sketchy maintenance records.

Come up with the cleanest, lowest mileage, best mechanical piece you can.

Have cash in your pocket. None of this 'I'll call my bank nonsense'. Be prepared to buy when you know the one, or you'll lose it.

Be prepared to drive a good distance, or even fly, to get the one you want.

Enjoy!

 

I dont even really understand why the push button engagement was ever made. Its not any more convenient or easier to use than just the j shift with ADD. Just more electronics to potentially give ya fits at some point...

 

I've narrowed my search to year ranges 97-02 and I want the factory e locker and I'd prefer a decent 97-2000 because I'd rather have the full manual tcase and not the push button.

I totally understand about having cash on hand ready to go. I looked and looked for my last truck because it just had to be perfect. I was on the road less than an hour after it was on CL with cash in hand. Guy said that in the two hours it took me to get there 3 or 4 other people called about.

 

Why '97 as the oldest one? '98 is when they changed to the second face lift. The 95-97 is the same thing. Just curious....

The manual j shift transfer case was available all the way through '04. Be nice to get manual hubs though. After '00 they became real scarce... in fact that might have been the last year of manual hubs, anybody know fur sure if thats true? Or did it remain as an option all the way through?

 

Wasn't 97 when the TRD package came out? Or was I wrong about that? Still learning about what years had what...

I didn't know that, so it was an option only or did it ever become standard?

 

Yes 97 was first year of TRD but the elock was available from the start as an option. So fairly rare though...

What exactly are you asking on your second question?

 

When the push button for 4HI came out was it only an option or was their a year it became standard? I assume the push button uses an actuator for shifting and the J shift is just all mechanical linkage?

 

Not sure on the push button year wise.....

Yes the button uses an actuator or solenoid er some shit to engage 4x4. J shift is mechanical and the j shift was available with ADD or manual locking hubs. With ADD the cv's turn constantly along with the diff. With manual hubs all that shit stays stationary till the transfer is engaged.

 

Cool, yea I'd def prefer the J shift.

KISS

 

Exactly!!!!!

"KISS"

I edited my post. Im not sure if the driveline spins with ADD, im thinking not, but not positive. Ive only ever owned manual hub trucks. Id did however just get a t4r with j shift and ADD so i guess i need to check if the front drive line spins all the time or not..

How bout it ADD guys? What stays spinning all the time besides the cv's?

 

Does anyone know if the factory sunroofs every had any issues like leaking or anything? Looking at a truck now that is exactly what I want but has a sunroof and I'm not sold on the truck just for that reason alone.

 

I've never heard of it being an issue. If it looks to be in good shape I wouldn't let the sunroof deter you, these trucks are getting harder to find with all the right specs and in good condition. Pour a bucket of water over the sunroof and see if it leaks

 

I bought a 95.5 , build date is June 95 ,
It has what I guess is the LX package , with chrome mirrors and door handles , power windows , locks , air ,tilt wheel , sport seats Sun roof , original owners manuals came with truck, and states DLX .
My friend has a 95.5 , build date September 95 , and has owned it since it had 4 miles on it.
It is an Sr5 , with the decal package , and exactly the same options.
Difference between the two other than color , his has the push button transfer case , mine is the J shift ,
Mine has manual hubs , his does not.
Both front differentials have the same actuators (add ?) , both have same gear ratios, 4.10 .

Mine is metallic Black. His is dark green , both have the Oak interior .
I paid 2300.00 with known engine problems, I replaced both heads .
He replaced engine with used at 300.k now has 415k
Mine has 265 k .
Mine came with a FabTec 6" lift, his will get a 3" strut/ spring lift ,
Mine came with 33" one week old Firestone MT's 15" wheel and he has 285 /75/16.

He wants mine, and can have it for 8k

I drive a V10 super cab super duty , manual 5 speed , and won't give it up .
Tacoma is a nice truck, but there is times when , bigger is better.

 

Reading through this thread and alot of stuff is getting thrown around...

etcpower and push button 4hi was available on all years.

For the extra price your gona pay for a trd you can install a locker into the 8.4" open and have a stronger setup and your gona replace the shocks anyways.

The push button 4hi shouldnt be exempt because the only thing different over the j-shift setup is it has an actuator motor which rarely fails on these trucks.

95-97 trucks had shorter leafs.

to put supercharger on 95-96 trucks youl need a 97 ecu.

with a budget in mind you can get 95-97 models ALOT cheaper the 01-04 trucks. you can swap the front ends fairly cheap if its not the look you desire and basically have the same truck for thousands less. you can use this extra money to go towards better/more mods.

Like the jeeps these trucks are a great platform and you can turn them into pretty much anything with the wide availability of aftermarket support.