Hi , I'm new

[Stumpkin]

Hi I'm new to the forum, but not new to Toyota 4x4s. This is 5th Toyota 4wd pick-up that I have owned and my wife drives a '99 Rav4. I also have a '92 Dodge/Cummins 3/4 ton 4x4. I'm interested in fixing up my '03 Tacoma so that I don't have to stop at signs like this one. I use my Tacoma for my work (itinerant timber framer) and I'm on the road for more than 70 % of the year, so I can't go too crazy. I'm also wanting to buy an '81 FJ40 from a buddy of mine. Tom

 

[FlatlandTRD]

I'm interested in fixing up my '03 Tacoma so that I don't have to stop at signs like this one.

The first thing would be joining/spending time wheeling with other club member to learn the limits of your tacoma. But your stock tacoma has more ground clearance than most vehicles, even the modded ones (and more than your huge dodge). It's very capable in stock form, and has a selectable locker to boot!

You could easily jump up a tire size (i.e. if you still have the 265/70R16s, move up to 265/75R16s). Are you looking at a lift? Also, the tacoma is narrow. So the only reason to stop at the sign would be to take a picture, unless you have hesitations regarding the "experience driver". Then refer to the first paragraph.

Keep in mind, if you do want to lift yours, a spacer lift is a bad idea with the front progressive rate springs. Heaver springs (since you have an arb) like Old Man Emu (OME), tundra, fancy bling'n adjustable Sway-a-ways (SAWs), Kings, etc would be best.

Hope that helped some, if not, just ignore me. But welcome anyways and hope you decide to stay. (ih8mud salute)

Jason

 

[Stumpkin]

Hi Jason, I definately want to go with a stiffer suspension like OME. Loaded with tools the stock setup has way too much body roll in the corners, especially at highway speed. Not like my old '83 with a solid front axle, I still miss that truck. I haven't done any serious wheeling in a few years, but I've got the ich again. Tom

 

[5280Hawk]

You would be AMAZED at what that truck can do exactly how you have it!

On another note do they make heavier front springs for the 05-07's Taco's?