In the market for a Taco.. (1 Viewer)

[Curse]

... and am wondering what things to look for!

Basically I have an 86 4x4, and know a s***ton about the first/second/third gen pickups, but am now looking for a 2000+ Tacoma for a friend.

What are some problems/maintenance/things that I should be looking for with these trucks?

I heard that there is IFS service that needs to be done around.. 100k miles? Also, when someone mentions lift on their truck, assuming the IFS is also lifted, is it similar to the torsion bar IFS where lifting the suspension significantly weakens it overall? I know the suspension is a completely different system, so maybe there is a better way that it is done with those.

Also, what gen are we on now? 6th or 5th? Around 2000 there were some styling changes, does that constitute a new generation?

 

[FlatlandTRD]

Okay, but just remember, you asked for it. But before I give you all the junk... There is NO IFS service at 100K. If he/you gets the 3.4, then it's the timing belt & water pump that are serviced. Lifting it doesn't weaken anything, unless you do it wrong. It's the CV angles that you have to be cautious of. 95.5 to 2004 is one generation, the first for Tacomas (7th overall).

Here ya go...
1995

Toyota introduces an all new pickup truck, designed in Calty, Southern California, and built in Fremont California (at NUMMI) - The Tacoma. The Tacoma featured brand new high performance engines. A 142-horsepower 2.4L four cylinder with 160 lb.-ft. was standard on the 2WD models, while the 4WD models offered a 150 hp. 2.7L four cylinder engine producing 177 lb.-ft. of torque. On both models, an optional 190 hp. 3.4L V6 engine with 220 lb.-ft. of torque was available. This engine would be shared with the T100.
The suspension was new as well. This redesigned suspension offered a coil spring double-wishbone configuration, which replaced the Hi-Trac torsion bar double wishbone suspension of the previous generation. The lower arm uses a closed cross-sectional structure that adds strength while reducing unsprung weight. Suspension travel on the 4WD models increased from 5.9 inches to 7.7 inches, improving both on and off road performance. Tread width on both 2WD and 4WD also increased, improving steering stability and ride comfort. The Tacoma continued to use the reliable leaf type rear suspension with refinements to layout design.
For safety, a standard driver-side airbag, center high mount stop light, adjustable seatbelt anchors, improved side-view mirrors, and optional four-wheel ABS were added. Additionally, the Tacoma received side door impact beams, and three-point, automatic and emergency locking retractor (ALR and ELR) seatbelts in outboard positions, with an ELR seatbelt on the driver's side.
1997

While mechanically unchanged, the 1997 Tacoma gets a redesigned front-end. The headlights were faired into a new grille, and the whole assembly is more aerodynamic and stylish than before.
The 4WD models Tacoma now has an available locking rear differential, bucket seats on non-SR5 Xtracabs, and revised striping on all SR5s.
1998

A passenger-side airbag is added one year prior to the Federal standard of 1999. For increased safety, the passenger-side airbag can be turned off with the ignition key. Accept for a redesigned sound system and the addition of new colors, the 2WD remains unchanged.
4WD models get interior changes including rotary HVAC controls, 2 additional 12 volt power outlets, and repositioned cupholders. Outside the Tacoma, a larger front bumper and restyled grille and headlights along with new overfenders give Tacoma a more aggressive look.
Mid-year, the Tacoma PreRunner is introduced. This new 2WD pickup combines the rugged styling and off-road ability of the 4WD with the affordability of the 2WD model. The PreRunner was developed in conjunction with Toyota Motorsport's successful desert racing truck program. Much of the suspension tuning and development work was done with the assistance of Toyota-drive Ivan "The Ironman" Stewart. The PreRunner shares identical exterior styling with all '98 4WD models. They are available only as Xtracab models with an automatic transmission and a 4 or 6 cylinder engine.
Enhancing the PreRunner and the 4WD off-road ability is an available Toyota Racing Development (TRD) Off-Road package. The package offers a rugged combination of front and rear Bilstein shock absorbers, locking rear differential on V6 models, progressive-rate front coil springs and rear leaf suspension, modified camber rear springs, a larger front stabilizer bar, 31x10.50R15 white lettered Goodyear tires, 15x7" alloy wheels, black overfenders, and special Off-Road graphics.
1999

The Tacoma PreRunner is available in a Regular Cab model with an automatic transmission equipped with the 2.7L 4 cylinder engine.
2000

Standard daytime running lights are added to all models equipped with ABS. Also, the Tacoma StepSide, a sporty package that added a youthful alternative to the Tacoma lineup.
2001

The Tacoma enters a new model year with an aggressive new styling change which include a new front fascia featuring a vertical grille, raised hood, new multi-reflector headlamps, and jeweled tail lamps. Inside, tether anchor brackets have been added to supplement child restraint systems. Also, several new upgrade packages, and 4 new exterior colors.
The Double Cab is introduced. The Tacoma Double Cab delivers the cargo hauling capability of a pickup, the passenger roominess and comfort of an SUV and rugged styling that makes an aggressive statement. The Double Cab is offered in SR5 and Limited trim levels with available off-road package in the 2WD PreRunner series with a 4 or 6 cylinder engine. It offers 11 inches of ground clearance, and a 61" cargo bed. It's 4 large conventional doors open to a well appointed and roomy interior, featuring spacious front and rear seating and a 60/40 fold-down rear bench with 3-point outboard belts.
The Tacoma S-Runner is introduced as a new Sport Truck. The S-Runner is offered in a 4x2 Xtracab trim level with a 5-speed manual overdrive transmission and powered exclusively by Tacoma's 190-hp V6 engine. Performance is enhanced with a low-to-the-ground sports tuned suspension with Tokico gas shock absorbers and stiffer springs, sway bars and bushings. Ground clearance is reduced by 2 inches from the standard 4x2. The
S-Runner boasts a full color-keyed exterior that includes the grille, lower valence panel, front and rear bumper, overfenders, and outside door handles and mirrors. For an extreme appearance, a dealer-installed Toyota Racing Development (TRD) body kit is available.
The color-keyed exterior is complemented by an aggressive interior feel which includes standard amenities such as front sports and power lumbar driver seat, front seat for and aft adjustable headrests, leather steering wheel and shift knob, tachometer with twin trip meters, AM/FM/Cassette audio with 6 speakers, tilt steering wheel, variable intermittent wipers and a rear console box.
Finally, the latest addition to the Tacoma family is the StepSide. This package is available on regular and Xtracab 4x2 models, powered by either 4 or 6 cylinder engines. The StepSides cargo box is a solid steel unit and the sporty image is enhanced by the use of front fenders, bumper and grille from the Tacoma 4x4.
Notes

So what does Tacoma mean? Tacoma comes from the Salish Indian word for the mountain that provided water to their tribe (later changed to Mount Rainier). The name suggests images of strength and power.
What about PreRunner? Well, PreRunner is a term that refers to a class of vehicle that is used to "pre-run" an off-road race course in order to save the race vehicle for race day. Often these "pre-runner" vehicle are heavily modified 2WD trucks.
The compact trucks (2 and 4WD) are built at the New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc (NUMMI) in Fremont, California, the Honsha Plant in Toyota City, Japan, and all truck beds are produced at TABC in Long Beach, California. 4WD trucks are also built in the Tahara Plant in Tahara, Japan.
All Tacomas are produced at NUMMI.
The StepSide pickup truck was co-developed by design engineers at NUMMI, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) USA, Product Planning Group and Rob Millen Motorsports in Huntington Beach, California.
The above data is provided courtesy of Toyota Motor Company, Inc.

 

[Jacket]

95.5-2004 is considered the same generation, even though there were some cosmetic changes and cab configuration changes over the years.
2005+ starts the latest generation, which is 2nd for the "Tacoma", but something higher for Toyota trucks overall.

The thing you want to look for in IFS is leaking or wear on the CV's, especially if it has been lifted. The most common type of lift is a new coil spring (and optionally the front shock), where the coil spring is longer and stiffer and raises the resting height of the truck. As the previous poster mentions, this makes for an as good or stronger suspension, but it changes the angle of the CV which causes premature wear of those parts. Ideally the lift is 3" or less. Spacers are also used with stock springs; it's basically the same idea for lifting, but doesn't perform as well as a new spring. You also have body lifts and drop brackets, but I won't go into that detail.....
Overall they are great trucks. Just look for worn out parts, sagging rear leaf springs, belts, hoses, etc. like you typically might find in an aging vehicle.

 

[5280Hawk]

I will say the drop brackets are a cool idea, it lowers the differential thus making up for the CV joint angles being extended.

You have to have it professionally installed though.

 

[Curse]

Wow, awesome stuff, thank you guys both very much!

 

[Mars]

I will say the drop brackets are a cool idea, it lowers the differential thus making up for the CV joint angles being extended.

You have to have it professionally installed though.

Sorry for the hijack...

Are you talking about front differential spacers? I've heard these are a fairly easy install, no need for shop time...true? I've never done it, but am considering incorporating it into a soon-coming lift.

 

[FlatlandTRD]

Sorry for the hijack...

Are you talking about front differential spacers? I've heard these are a fairly easy install, no need for shop time...true? I've never done it, but am considering incorporating it into a soon-coming lift.

It's not even a diff spacer, as it only pivots the front diff so that the rear of it points farther up increasing the front drive shaft angle. If your CVs are bad enough to warrant this, then you need to start over. It doesn't do squat, and it's done more damage to trucks that actually wheel (but that's according to people who actually had it, and later removed them).

In addition, you loose ground clearance and have to modify your skid plate to make it work. But if you really examine the CV boots, it hasn't done jack to decrease the "severe" angles. If you learn how to control the skinny pedal, your CVs will last even longer.

PS, It's only a matter of removing two bolts, and slapping in two new longer ones with the spacers. If you pay to have this done... there are greater issues.

 

[Mars]

It's not even a diff spacer, as it only pivots the front diff so that the rear of it points farther up increasing the front drive shaft angle. If your CVs are bad enough to warrant this, then you need to start over. It doesn't do squat, and it's done more damage to trucks that actually wheel (but that's according to people who actually had it, and later removed them).

In addition, you loose ground clearance and have to modify your skid plate to make it work. But if you really examine the CV boots, it hasn't done jack to decrease the "severe" angles. If you learn how to control the skinny pedal, your CVs will last even longer.

PS, It's only a matter of removing two bolts, and slapping in two new longer ones with the spacers. If you pay to have this done... there are greater issues.

That's exactly what I was thinking, I just don't have any experience with it. I didn't realize it only drops the front of the diff!