Hello,
x2.
Colombia spec 73 Series are either older models from Japan or locally assembled units from CKDs. Both have lived very hard lives.
Colombia assembled FZJ73s from 1995 to 2004. After 1995, 73 Series imports ceased for that market. A few Japanese FZJ73 made it to South America before 1995.
1996 model year indicates the truck is a locally assembled FZJ73.
Local components in Colombia spec FZJ73s include the FRP top (made by FIVRES or CABINOR,) the rear axle (a Dana 60 from Venezuela) and glass, among other things.
Parts for the rear axle are either expensive or discontinued. The only source is usually the local Toyota dealer, and by local, I mean the Colombian one.
These trucks are very prone to rust. I did not believe this until I saw it firsthand. The FRP top cracks in old age.
As you may already know by now, down there, labor is way cheaper than parts, and creative mechanics abound. So do cheap owners that prefer these guys to the dealer's shop.
The vague steering suggests the need for major work, namely tie rod ends, knuckles and linkage. Chances are rotors, bearings and seals are in need of replacement. And it is possible that the rear axle is about to give up the ghost as well.
Cold start issues suggest the need for a proper tune up and a compression check at the very least.
It is highly likely that there are a lot of issues lurking under the skin.
A good shop is helpful but parts availability may be a problem, especially for the rear axle.
I would look for another truck. I would book a flight to South America to look for a truck in decent shape personally.
Juan