I used Amazon on this rig for some parts. Some which were here the next day, that's cool. But most items are different suppliers and come in separate packages. So I spent extra time finding, buying and inventorying. I also found Amazon parts often cost me more than my usual sources, and I had more returns for defects or poor quality than usual.
My local Toyota Dealer gives me a good price (not great, but ok) plus tax. But I've used him for 14 years and my guy has only missed once on a part. That was the AC O-ring we had issue with. But that wasn't his fault, it was a Toyota part number issue. Even partsouq had that one wrong. Only a Russian parts diagram had it right. My local guy also welcomes my returns, orders me stuff just so I can see it, knowing I'll not likely buy and is only 2 miles away. So I pay a little extra. When I need that hard to find or just a few items or as I'm working, finding this or that I need, I call or email him. It's fast and easy and right.
My big orders go to Mcgeorge, which save ~20% me when I consider no tax. Their software seems to constantly price compare and beat most if not all in the USA. Partsouq can also be great on smaller lightweight stuff. The telescopic motor was a very good price, with shipping only $10 here in 3 or 4 day from the Mideast (UAE) WOW.
When you consider I'm near now at 288 parts and counting. Well,,, you can imagine how much time I spend just putting together a list. Then finding, ordering, unpacking and inventorying it a daunting task. Then tools; buying, repairing and replacing.
I'm now over $9K after purchase costs mostly parts (not including tools and shop supplies), and ~500 hours. I'll bet, 100 hours alone of that is just parts acquisition!
Right now I'm spending to much time on a a silly part(s) (my parts guy is on vacation). So far I've had myself and two others looking for two clips.
It's the third row seat lever clips. I had the dranest time getting the seats to release. It turns out the leaver (a wire/rod) that attaches to the handle was out of it's holder. A clip that holds is what we've yet to find. This one clip, is probable sitting in countless bassment, sheds and garages on those third row seat we most all store in large plastic trash bags. I've toss a few third row in the trash, I wish I had just two of those today. I've 4 hours on these now, and still don't have.
Once I realized why the seat wouldn't release, it was easy to remedy. Just takes two finger and 3 seconds to push wire rod into lever.
Pulling apart I see a nylon insert that possible has a piece broken off or possibly just worn out IDK. This piece holds wire rod locking it in place.
My regalar parts guys back from vacation. He found this in 30 seconds. He's so good.
Note, there is a difference between RR & LR. LR is black and clip is reversed.
It takes two or three good vacuumings afterwards to finish the process.
