Looking for a new Rig Mini/Taco it is.

[BJSnooper]

Hey,

I'm looking for a city run-about truck. Initially I thought a 86-95 2wd would be perfect but they're not as abundant and it sure would be fun to offroad a Mini/Taco instead of my 'nicer' 40. I am too scared to offroad the 40 and it usually sleeps for the winters anyways. Salt here is pretty rough on vehicles and I'd rather not drive the super rust prone rigs. I like my Dodge CTD but its not well suited to city driving and short distances, plus the salt factor...

Anyways, I've been searching kijiji for a while and have come up with a few trucks. I've been really looking for a pure bare bones, basic truck which will give me ultimate reliability. I'm preferring something with no electronics (windows, sunroofs, doors etc). Manual tranny only. I'm thinking a 4cyl is best, just because of the ultimately reliable 22R(E) engine.

I had a truck pop up and the fellow says its a 6 cyl. Not as idea but what do you guys think? Should I just wait for a 4cyl? Speed and towing ability are not an issue. Body rust isn't a huge concern for me either. It would be nice if the frame wasn't swiss cheese either though...

http://edmonton.kijiji.ca/c-cars-vehicles-cars-trucks-1989-Toyota-4x4-sr5-W0QQAdIdZ420286399

Any other tricks of the trade with these? I'm a little more familiar with the Landcruiser side of things.

Thanks

 

[Sam Stewart]

The debate about the 3.0 could rage on for days. PERSONALLY, I like the 22RE for the reliability factor. I have seen one run on a mixture of old gas, diesel, and water. You just can't hardly kill one. The 3.0 is prone to head gasket failures which is why many people stay away. If you're not towing or anything I would wait on a clean 22RE truck. Just my 2 cents.

 

[TRoss]

I'd hold out for the 4cyl.. you get the geared t-case with it.

Make sure to inspect the frame for rust in front of the rear spring hanger. It's not a big problem but if the vehicle has not been taken care of I've seen them rust out at that spot.. and I'm in the South.

Also, if your thinking Taco, they had frame rust issues on a much larger scale ... just so you know.

Happy hunting!

 

[BJSnooper]

Thanks for some of the responses on the 6cyl. I had my suspicions about them and will try to avoid, if possible. I know rust, so I'll make sure to keep a watchful eye out for it too.

Will keep hunting!!

 

[dtrailtaco]

Happy hunting, but remember the 4cyl have their share of head gasket issues too. That is what you get with an iron block and aluminium heads. They will leak if they are overheated any. So just check it out real good. The 4cyl heads are just easier to replace.