New guy, apparently looking for a unicorn

I've been appreciative of the overlanding scene for a couple of years now. I sold my sporty sedan last year and went to my old backup SUV to save some cash and pay off some bills. It is in need of replacement in short order, and I’m in the market for either a Taco or a 4R.

I know the 4R is only an auto, but I am really trying to find a stick Taco just for the fact that they exist as an option. Third gen would be my preference, but probably out of budget. Next choice would be a 2.5 for the updated front end. I also appreciate the updated interior, but the first day I have it I’m putting in an Android Auto head unit.

So, DC, 4x4, manual transmission, on the lower side of miles (100k?), and at an affordable price has been a challenge. Usually I can find one that gets close, but doesn’t tick all the boxes. Particularly for the mid-model refresh. I did just find a 2007 OR with 105k for $16k that seems reasonable. More money for mods, but spending the cash on a bumper/hood/light swap plus a good repaint will eat into any savings.

I’ve owned a truck before (76 Elky) and a 4x4 (97 TJ), but never the combo. There is a ton of info here, and it is taking me awhile to dig through.

 

I’m guessing you’re wanting a long bed too?

 

Your truck is out there, just got to do the hunt.

Shorten your check list or stream line it to help others keep an eye out.

 

No, a DCSB would be just fine. I haven’t even come across a long bed in my searches yet.

I don’t suppose there’s a second gen buyers guide that has an overview of changes? I know I saw one for first gen a long time ago.

 

Not saying they don’t exist... but I’ve never seen a DCLB/manual.

 

The double cabs were definitely more rare with the manual trans, and a manual trans Double Cab Long Bed (DCLB) does not exist unfortunately.

I jumped on my 2010 ACLB with V6 and 6speed manual. I, like you, love to row my own. Not willing to give that up yet.

I know most folks prefer the 2012+ front end but I like the 05-11 lines much better personally and I wouldn't want all that air injection exhaust emissions BS, the Tacoma is small enough any lost space under the hood is a hindrance for mods and just working on it in general.

I found my Tacoma by sure chance, it ticked all boxes except for color, and even that was half checked if you would. It's 209 BSP (sparkly black) would have preferred 202 (plain gloss black) It also didn't have the sport hood, but the TRD Off-Road never was made with it so I expected not to have it. Fortunately I was blessed again by a local member updating his front end and I bought his old sport hood.

As for year I'd recommend 10-11 and 13-15. 05-07 had some frame and engine issues still getting worked out, 05-09 didn't have as many things standard equipment as 10-15 and 12's had some mild issues with the new air injection.

Either way your unicorn is out there, be patient don't settle and when it shows up POUNCE LIKE A LION BEFORE SOMEBODY ELSE TAKES IT HOME!!!

Also for what it's worth you may need to expand your search area. I live in FLA but I bought my truck from TN, found it through auto trader. They had three people put a deposit on it through three different sales reps and ultimately because of how their paperwork and financial records updated we all put money down at the same time so they refunded the three of us our deposits and said first one in the door gets it. I thank God it was me. Actually met one of the other guys who had come to buy it, he was two hours behind me, he was walking around the truck as I was walking out to it with they keys.

Poor bloke.

I rode my motorcycle through the night from the keys to get there in time, he had drove down from Missouri.

They go fast!

Irregardless, I'm sure you'll find yours, if it's meant to be it will be. Sometimes you just need to remind yourself of that.

 

DCLB Manuals do NOT exist unfortunately, or I should say not from factory.

That's what I was looking for originally till I learned it was never available, and I don't believe the DCLB ever was available with the earlier nose or as a TRD Off-Road either, both of those were requirements for me. That's how I got my ACLB, I had to have a LB for my motorcycle and hobbies.

Hard to sleep in a short bed when you're 10" longer than it is.

I'd swear I've seen a manual swapped DCLB on here at least once though.

 

Ouch that stings ragging on my no frills new framed '05. Bonus for the 05-07 is if you go adding big power like supercharger then the ECU is hackable for custom tunes where the 08+ have to go complete stand alone or piggyback.

 

Here you go mate.



Tacoma 2nd Generation (

$90 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma With 4L Right Petrol intake air snorkel kit high performance system compatible kit Replacement black Rotational Molding (2005-2015)

2005-2015)

2005
First production year

2006
• Added a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to all five wheels (including spare) using direct-sensing valve stem assemblies
• Occupant-classification system for front passenger airbag added to bench-seat models
• An air filter (called the "cabin air fliter") was added on the intake path for the HVAC blower. The filter can be replaced by the owner; it's located behind the glovebox.

2007
• 4-cylinder engine: improved tailpipe emissions, changed exhaust manifold design, optimized three-way catalytic converter (TWC), new generator pulley with one-way clutch
• 6-cylinder engine: optimized TWC, new generator pulley with one-way clutch
• Computerized brake control system (ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, TRAC, VSC, Auto LSD) available as an option on X-Runner models
• On models with VSC, the Auto LSD switch has been discontinued, and a VSC OFF switch has been added
• TPMS improved to relay more information through flashing warning light (on solid for system error, blinking slowly for low pressure)
• Rollover-Sensing Curtain Airbag (RSCA) added for models with side curtain airbags, along with RSCA OFF switch and indicator light
• VSC/TRAC indicator light has been discontinued
• Radio speakers changed to models with neodymium to reduce overall weight
• Motor mounts redesigned on frame for added strength

2008
• TPMS logic changed: time required to detect a malfunction reduced to 20 minutes, improved detection for judging when engine is running, light is on solid after blinking for one minute if a transmitter ID is not detected
• Audible seat belt warning chime logic changed for both driver and passenger

2009
• Color changes: added Magnetic Gray Metallic, deleted both shades of red and introduced one new shade of red, deleted dark blue, deleted beige, added Pyrite Mica (bronze color)
• Inner grille design changed
• Headlight extensions on TRD models tinted smoke color
• LED’s used for all rear lighting with smoke-tinted lenses
• Rear-view camera added to tailgate handle assembly
• Interior side door panels re-designed for appearance and safety
• Lumbar support added to rear-seat back panel on Access Cab
• Rear console storage box added to Access Cab
• Chrome-plated emblem added to the base steering wheel
• Privacy glass added to the optional Convenience Package and all higher packages
• Fuel cap changed from a “quick-turn” design to a screw-on design
• 6-cylinder engine: changed exhaust manifold design
• The LSD rear differential has been discontinued in favor of Auto LSD (using ABS to mimic the function of a mechanical LSD)
• The oil viscosity was lowered (to SAE 75W-85) in both front and rear differentials
• The characteristics of the shocks on 4WD and PreRunner models have been changed for improved driving performance
• The shape and strength of the rubber rear spring bumper on 4WD and PreRunner models have been improved for riding comfort
• Safety braking features TRAC, VSC, and Auto LSD are standard on all models
• The spare tire changed from a standard wheel to a temporary spare wheel, and the TPMS sensor has been removed from the spare tire
• Frame structures have been redesigned for better performance in a collision
• Improved design of door latch for Access Cab rear doors in order to improve performance in a collision
• Bucket seats are no longer available on Regular Cab (bench seat only)
• Active headrests (for whiplash prevention in a collision) are standard on Access Cab and Double Cab
• Headrests have been added to the rear seat on Access Cab
• The middle seat belt in the rear seat on Access Cab is 20mm longer to accommodate design changes in the seat cushion
• An A-TRAC indicator light is added for models with that feature (4WD TRD Off Road only)
• The ambient temperature sensor for the overhead console has been eliminated, and the overhead console now uses the data coming from the air conditioning system’s sensor
• The clock changed from a vacuum fluorescent display to an LCD display
• Variable intermittent wipers are no longer an option on 2WD Regular Cab
• A “Max A/C” mode and other logic changes were made to the HVAC controls
• Power windows are standard on Access Cab and Double Cab
• Power door locks are standard on Access Cab and Double Cab
• A separate buzzer has been added to the keyless entry system for audio feedback
• Side airbags and side curtain airbags are standard on all models
• A 2.4-inch LCD display is added to the rear view mirror for models with a rear view camera
• Specifications for all radios have changed, including an Aux input jack and MP3/WMA media file playback
• Bluetooth hands-free phone integration is available as an option on Double Cab as part of the JBL premium audio system

2010
• A smaller engine starter (1.4 kW instead of 2.0 kW) is standard for models manufactured for Mexico, Hawaii, Guam, and Puerto Rico, and the battery has also been changed
• The horn changed from a double horn with two different pitches to a single low-pitched horn
• Additional material to dampen noise and vibration is added to Regular Cab
• The adjustable front-seat cup holders have been redesigned with a removable style of insert

2011
• Some combinations of engine, cab, and frame length were discontinued, and some 4-cylinder, 4WD models were added
• The front grille has been redesigned
• TMPS eliminated from models made for Mexico
• Satellite radio service added as an option on models other than the JBL Premium audio system

2012
• The design of the front bumper, front grille, headlights, fog lights and front spoiler (for X-Runner) has been changed
• Additional tie-down hooks are provided on the floor in the front area of the cargo bed
• A double-handle lever has been provided on the hood latch
• Colors: shades of green and blue have changed
• The instrument panel shape, switch designs, backlight colors, steering wheel, and shift lever knob have changed
• The shape of the power window switch panel has changed in conjunction with changes to the door trim design
• The overhead console (temperature and compass) has been discontinued
• The compass and temperature readings have been integrated into the rearview mirror in the 3.3-inch LCD display
• The rear console box on Access Cab has changed
• A vanity light is provided on both front visors with the SR5 optional package or higher
• The TWC has been optimized for higher emission standards
• On models with a towing package, the oil cooler has been changed to a smaller unit
• Seat fabric has changed to increase water repellence
• On Double Cab, rear seat headrests are larger and foldable
• On Access Cab, the child seat restraint system has been changed
• Shock absorbers have been optimized to improve ride comfort
• An option package is available with 4-leaf springs (instead of 3) and tuned shocks to improve ride under load
• The VSC warning buzzer has been discontinued
• Trailer sway control has been added to the brake control system
• Except for certain option packages, the rear lights have changed from LED lights to bulb lights
• The speedometer signal for the combination meter has changed from analog to CAN-BUS
• Seat belt warning light and buzzer logic has changed
• Homelink garage door opener is available as an option (integrated into the rearview mirror)
• A Display Audio head unit with JBL and Bluetooth is available as an option
• Navigation is available as an option (requires the JBL Display Audio head unit)
• The Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and towing light relays have been eliminated and combined into the standard flasher relay (meaning DRL is now standard)
• The spare tire hoist cable has been replaced with a chain. A length of excess chain is visible from underneath the spare tire when it’s in the normal up/stored position.

2013
• A “Limited” option package is available, including chrome Limited emblems, side mirrors, fog lights, and door handles; Softex seats; JBL Premium Audio with Navigation; heated front seats; unique wheels and other features
• A heater has been added to the air pump on both 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines
• The steering wheel button panel has been changed to accommodate additional features of the radio system
• A “DRL OFF” position has been added to the light control switch (except in Canada)
• A Display Audio head unit is standard on most models

2014
• The fit and finish of the Display Audio head unit in the dashboard has been improved
• The steering wheel button panel has been redesigned
• Logic changes were made for the recirculate setting in the HVAC controls
• The LCD display has been eliminated from the rearview mirror, which also eliminates the outside temperature display
• A Display Audio head unit with Entune is standard on all models
• The rearview camera output is displayed on the Display Audio head unit instead of the mirror
• A Display Audio head unit without JBL but with Navigation is available as an option

2015
• A “TRD Pro” option package is available
• Regular cab models have been discontinued
• Access Cab can be ordered without rear seats for increased storage capacity
• Colors: Orange has been added for TRD Pro models only; green has been discontinued
• Reinforcements were made to the front seat brackets, as well as rear seat floor mounts on Double Cab
• The energy absorption pad on the front door panels has been changed
• The clock has been eliminated; time is displayed on the Display Audio head unit
• The shape of the side curtain airbag for Double Cab models has changed
• Side airbag logic has been changed to allow them to deploy in a frontal collision
• The satellite radio antenna and GPS antenna are combined in an external antenna on the roof

 

2nd gens DCLB only came in auto trans and at most a TRD Sport, in either a 2x4 or 4x4.
But the new 3rd gens come in a TRD Offroad 4x4 or 2x4 DCLB. Still no manual trans option though.

 

Very much obliged. Will be studying this while I work tomorrow.

My search is indeed nationwide, as I don’t mind heading out one way and driving back. I’m in Atlanta, and I see a decent one in Coeur d’Alene. That would be a fun trip back across most of the US.

 

All they really had was the non reinforced motor mounts and a few had head gasket issues, if it hasn't been a problem for you yet it's likely to never be one. Sorry didn't mean to make them sound inferior.

Also of your ECU hack-ability and that some earlier models had the torsen style true LSD. My 2010 has more electro-techno-gizmo than I'd prefer.


One day I plan on Magnuson charging and I'll have to get the URD U-Con Piggyback ECU.

Already have a few of their toys on my truck, good folks, they respond quickly and completely. Gadget is very personable and knowledgeable too.

 

We have a couple good trucks for sale here in Florida, I'd be happy to take a look at ones local to me if you find one you like.

There's also a members built up rig for sale local to me, it is auto though.

https://orlando.craigslist.org/cto/d/2009-4x4-toyota-tacoma-lifted/6565860430.html

Can't recall who it belongs to on here but if I come across him I will let you know, he has a build thread on here so you could see the history.

 

Just razzing you a little no offense taken. But now my new frame has even more updates than your! Oh and BTW the class action lawsuit for rust issues covers all tacomas from 05-15 or that's my understanding. I know there were some guys with later ones getting their frames replaced and the dealer that is doing mine is doing a '10 as well.

 

Right on, my Truck was TN bought and owned and spent a LOT of its past life on I55 being driven home and back to school by a young lady going to LSU. It was bone stock and 9/10 appearance and mechanical when I picked it up, had never even been off road. I changed that pretty quick.

My frame was originally spotless, and now thanks to offroad play has only a few small spots of surface rust from rock chips. Darn you 285's


I spend a lot of time under the truck and always bring a can of spray paint with me so I'm not worried about my frame, plus I live in Florida, again corrosion isn't a hug deal for me. I'll probably never qualify for frame replacement due to my meticulous care and geographical location.

 

And Key’s posts above^!

 

Thanks, I'm hoping for the kindness of the forum if it comes time to get one checked out by a mechanic across the country if that's how the cards are dealt. What I want to do is run out and buy one this weekend and start the fun, but what I should do is spend several months continuing to get this last card paid off and perhaps get a down payment going. Would also decrease the remaining payments on our minivan.

 

TW has been an amazing community and resource for me and I'm sure it will be for you as well. We kind of police ourselves and the mods are active and fair so it stays a good place to hang out and learn.

If you do come across one in Florida shoot me a PM and I'd be happy to check it out for you.

 

This is a hell of a good list, thanks @Key-Rei

 

I wish I could credit the original poster, it's something I came across here and saved to read, just remembered I had it on my phone still when someone mentioned in this thread they wish there was a changes made by model year. I was all like WAIT I HAVE THAT!

But yeah, as much as I'd love to take credit, I did not compile the list originally.

Either way glad I could be of assistance.