What starter 4x4 mini-truck when I can't afford a Taco?

[Stephen]

1990 - 97 Nissan D21 Hardbody. The KA24DE motor in the base models (XE & LE) is a rock solid EFI 4-banger that is right up there with any Toyota motor. In the SE model's you can find the VG30 V6, which from personal experience in my WD21 Pathfinder, is an awesome motor.
Many of these came stock with a very good LSD in the rear, and there is aftermarket support from OME, ARB, Calmini, RRO and a few other places out there.
These are simple, reliable trucks and you can pick them up for penny's on the dollar. I'd give them a serious look.

 

[frieed]

Thanks..

 

[sixstringsteve]

I forgot about the hardbody. Cool trucks. When did they go to obd2?

 

[Stephen]

Like eveyone else, 1996 when it was required.

 

[cruiseroutfit]

For the sake of argument and thread derailment, I think the Toyota 2WD&4WD RV variants sported a FF rear end:

Also, factory literature rates the Tacoma 5vz @ 190hp opposed to the 4Runner 187hp.

I've seen a 1-Ton cab/chassis (used for aftermarket coach conversions) with a FF 8" dually rear axle and 5 lug but I've never seen a 4x4 factory Toyota cab/chassis offering in the US with a full-float. It might exist but I've not seen one. Land Cruisers (including trucks) had FF's starting in the mid 70's to current but never in the US market.

 

[Marsh99]

Eric I was going to ask if you were interested in doing a solid axle swap or you wanted the stock ifs.

 

[frieed]

ifs is good for me

 

[Stephen]

Two D21's on KSL. Ones even a King Cab!

 

[cackalak]

To me, it makes the most sense to get a Taco. Even if it is $1-2k more expensive, you will have a much easier time re-selling and recoup most of what you put into it. I can't believe how well they hold their value. Almost like an investment... There are a couple of Tacomas (single-cab) on KSL around $5k range.