Taking the Leap.....

Hello all,
I'll be purchasing my first Taco in the next few weeks to month, depending on how long it takes me to do my research for my build, and then find a Taco to start with.

That said, I'll be digging around the forums here and elsewhere, trying to get a grip on the best route to start from.

I know where I want to end up- with a decent all around rig that will be a DD for a year, need to be able to truck camp, moderate trail riding, little rock crawling, and Vegas runs with the guys.

So that said, I know my must have's/wind up withs:
Reliable- confidence for a 2k mile road trip without breaking down unless I do something stupid
4x4- given
Locking rear (either ARB, stock, or swap)
DCSB
Daily driver comforts

I'll add that if it isn't plug and play with remove this and bolt on that, I won't be doing the mods myself, but seeking out professional help. I can swap out an alternator on an old pickup and change oil, but no precision work.

I need to work out which year/trim to start out with, that will keep my total cost of the vehicle down while still providing the must haves.

With all that said, here's my question: If I plan on upgrading the suspension with a lift, and the cost of adding a locker, along with new tires/wheels anyway, is it better to start off with a used SR5, TRD S or OR?

Is A-Trac that much a game changer that I need it to be effective? I live in SoCal desert, so most of my weekend trips will be out to Truck Haven, JTree, BigBear, etc.

Thanks all,
I'm stoked to get this finally rolling.

 

Just thought I'd clarify.... I've done some basic research and know what each trim level comes with. My basic question is one of economics: Is it cheaper to start with an SR5 and add the stuff I know I want (factoring in paying for labor).... Or.... Buy a TRD OR and swap out the basic parts (again, factoring for labor). All to achieve the must wind up with's above?

Kinda like what Jeep guys do with a JK. Buy the Sport and build it the way you want, instead of buying a Rubi and paying for parts you're going to replace anyway (suspension, tires, wheels, etc).

 

Buy a TRD only if you like the seats better or you want a factory locker.

Otherwise.. you're on the right track. Aftermarket stuff is better, cheaper, and your factory warranty really doesn't mean a whole lot when you modify the truck and break things off-roading. Depends on the dealer, and Toyota's whimsy.. but I'd just as well advise that if you break it, most of the time you bought it.

An SR5 is a better platform for price and for modding, as it has less premium (price wise) parts to throw in the dumpster than the TRD models.

Resale might be a bit easier for an attractive TRD truck, but modified vehicles don't really fall under that umbrella. Someone buying a modified truck isn't buying it for the bed decal.