Is it a true TRD, or just stickers?

[tgunnerson]

I was wondering if you Tacoma experts could help me out. I have owned a couple of Toyotas in my life and have always been impressed. After I sold my barebones 85 pickup I was immediately sad and knew if I ever got another truck it would have to be a Toyota.

Well the time has come and I am about to buy a Tacoma Xtra Cab TRD, probably a 98 or 99. I definitely want a V6/5 spd 4x4. What I really need to know is, how can I tell quickly just by looking if it is really a TRD offroad package, or if someone has just stuck the stickers on the rear quarters? I am guessing the button for the rear locker would be a good indicator. Where is it located, and do the other trucks have it?

Also, does anyone have a reason why the 2001-present models would be better than the 98-2000? Are there any major differences other than the look?

Are the any major trouble spots I need to look for in a 60-70K mile truck from those years?

Thanks in advance!
-Todd

['03DC3.4TRD4X4]

A truck from the western states would be desireable for the lack of rust or nearly so. The elec. locker is a good giveaway for the TRD package (found near the old location for the CLUTCH START CANCEL button) except for the Tundra which has a TRD pkg. but no locker available. The Tacoma has upgraded suspension and larger wheels/tires and lower (numerically higher) gear ratios. This info can be found on the vehicle info sticker on the door threshold.

[00taco]

i have an 00 TRD.....

i have the locker button, another dead giveaway is the blue and yellow bilstien shocks, and the rim size

[suv]

This may sound dumb, but make sure it's a 4x4. Pre-runners look exactly the same, have the diff-lock, bilsteins and stickers. Another giveaway is the fender flares on '98-'00 trucks.

No major mechanical differences in the '01'-03s.

[tacomer21]

Yeah the rear locker on the left side of the steering wheel. Pop ur head under the front and back to make sure they are bilstiens.

I have a 99 tacoma, it runs like a champ. It is about to cross 90k, and the only real problem that i have had with it is the fact that the water pump was "leaking" when i got the timing belt changed.

Good luck and see you off road....

[tgunnerson]

Thanks for all your help! Hopefully I'll have a TRD 4x4 and be off-roadin' soon!