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1st gen Tundra yay or nay

Discussion in '1st Gen Tundras (2000-2006)' started by Jl95, Jan 18, 2019.

  1. Mar 13, 2019 at 6:46 PM
    #91
    revtune

    revtune New Member

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    The vvti 4.7 access cab does get better mpg, city driving is where you’ll prob see the most increase. The first gen double cabs are super nice, but when Toyota released them in 04 they should have without a doubt put the 5 speed in it.
     
  2. Mar 13, 2019 at 8:47 PM
    #92
    Lupe

    Lupe New Member

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    You will not regret a 1st gen tundra. Its still a toyota lol. I went from a 2010 tacoma to two 07 tundra regular and crew max sold them both for a 06 with 50k. I love my truck.
     
  3. Mar 14, 2019 at 7:58 AM
    #93
    lsaami

    lsaami Let ‘er buck

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    In theory maybe, but in practice the later trucks get marginally worse MPG overall, vvt or no.

    http://www.fuelly.com/car/toyota/tundra/2005?engineconfig_id=5&bodytype_id=&submodel_id=

    http://www.fuelly.com/car/toyota/tundra/2000?engineconfig_id=5&bodytype_id=&submodel_id=
     
  4. Mar 14, 2019 at 8:33 AM
    #94
    speedtre

    speedtre New Member

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    You can't tell anything from that limited and way too broad data set. Those model years have way too big a mix of drivetrains and cab sizes and there is no choice for transmission choice or 4x4 or 2x4 to accurately compare MPG. In fact, those 2005 stats only had 3 AC and 20 were DC.

    In short, there is no way to definitively say the later trucks of the same configuration got worse (or better) MPG. You would
    have to compare a larger data set of 2000/2005 ACs, both AT, both with or without 4x4 and both with the AT transmission
    to say one or the other got better MPG. Having said that, it seems logical that a 2000 AC 4sp AT with 4x4 would get slighly less
    MPG than a 2005 AC 5sp AT VVTi with 4x4, but to even say that definitively would require a much larger accurate data set. I'm sure Toyota knows which is true...:thumbsup:
     
  5. Mar 14, 2019 at 11:31 AM
    #95
    lsaami

    lsaami Let ‘er buck

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    I will give you that it's not a perfect measurement, but my point still stands. marginal differences.

    You can filter out the engine choice, which is the biggest differentiator, and the v8s were only offered with auto transmissions, so there's that.

    so really you're left with 2x4 vs 4x4 and cab configuration.

    also, EPA estimates are almost identical. the 2005 is rated for 17 highway instead of 16 for the 2000, and that's the only difference.
     
  6. Mar 14, 2019 at 2:08 PM
    #96
    chainslap

    chainslap New Member

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    I've had three Tundras. A 2000 AC 4x4, a 2005 AC 4x4, and now a 2005 DoubleCab 4x4. All had over 200k. All pretty much trouble free. My favorite is the current truck. I love the look of the Access Cab but the space on the DC is nice. I don't even have kids, just a lot of two-wheeled toys. I seriously considered a 2007+ before getting this current truck but just don't like them that much. Too big, kind of cheesy feeling, and still spendy. But do love that drivetrain.

    I love the 5 speed Auto for highway driving, but actually kind of preferred the 4spd and non VVTI for city driving. Seemed like it did less hunting.

    They've all gotten between 14-18 MPG. But honestly who cares, it's a V8 truck. I have a Vibe for a commuter and my OG 95.5 Taco for off road duties.

    Also 1 MPG difference over 10000 miles is only about $100 in fuel...
     
  7. Mar 14, 2019 at 4:25 PM
    #97
    revtune

    revtune New Member

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    2006 Tundra: Stock air intake 3 inch catback Magnaflow 13742 2.5 inch front lift 1.5 inch rear blocks 2014 sr5 4Runner wheels (17x7) 1.5 inch hub centric wheel spacers p285/70/17 Nitto Terra Grappler G2 Weathertech floor liners
    I’ve only looked at fuelly a couple of times but some of these people with 05-06 tundras that are only getting around 13mpg. Are their trucks modified with bigger tires, camper shell, lift kit? Even a stock sized tire with all terrain tread can have an impact on mpg. Also one person might feel comfortable going 70mph on the freeway whereas somebody else might like going 80 mph, that will also significantly impact mpg. The poster above this post is correct. Don’t worry to much about mpg. I don’t ever get above 15mpg in my 02, but you know what I don’t care because I enjoy driving my truck.
     
    DJS Tundra and lsaami like this.
  8. Mar 14, 2019 at 4:27 PM
    #98
    Professional Hand Model

    Professional Hand Model A.K.A ‘Golden Hands’

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  9. Mar 15, 2019 at 7:27 AM
    #99
    speedtre

    speedtre New Member

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    [​IMG]
     
  10. Mar 15, 2019 at 7:32 AM
    #100
    Hbjeff

    Hbjeff New Member

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    Trd sways, bullydog, magnaflow, sumo springs
    This thread makes me miss my 2005....that truck was great.
     
  11. Mar 15, 2019 at 7:40 AM
    #101
    Rex Kramer

    Rex Kramer Vinyl Spinner

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    I love my 4.7 2002, I have owned it since '03 and it's a keeper.

    My 5.7 2007 is a totally different animal, and it's also a keeper now that I've sorted out the ride quality.

    IMG_6759.jpg
     
    revtune likes this.
  12. Mar 15, 2019 at 8:24 AM
    #102
    jmanscotch

    jmanscotch New Member

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    I recently purchased my first 1st gen Tundy, coming from a 2nd gen Tacoma. So far, impressed with the Tundra. Though mine has the 3.4L and a manual trans.

    It's a short term fix, while I hunt for the right 2005-06 DC Tundra. That said, it has 276K miles, was a 2 owner, well maintained but also well used, very affordable (at $3,500) compared to my 130K Tacoma that's still worth $19K. Runs and feels like a new truck still. So I support the "downgrade" to a 1st gen over your Taco. There's lots of little things to enjoy about the Tundra over the Tacoma.

    For starters, I enjoy the interior room/layout a bit more. Less cramped and no stupid trans tunnel console that wastes space. Some of the creature comforts and more modern equipment I'm going to miss from the Tacoma; backup cam (fixable), side curtain airbags, better radio setup, turning radius, traction control/A-trac/locking diff (from the TRD OR).

    [​IMG]
    [​IMG]
     
    Lupe, lsaami and speedtre like this.
  13. Mar 27, 2019 at 1:16 AM
    #103
    tufftundy11

    tufftundy11 New Member

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    No dana shit the bed on the frames and Toyota sued them and won and then took care of their customers with free frame and other component replacement or bought the truck back above value.
     
  14. Oct 3, 2019 at 6:51 AM
    #104
    Indy Tundra

    Indy Tundra New Member

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    Leveling kit powertrax locker, 330,000 miles and counting
    I have a 2000 Tundra 330,000 miles and counting! Other than the rusty bed its fantastic. I have looked at moving on to a newer Tundra several times. Every time after the test drive and returning to my 1st gen Tundra, I prefer the feeling of the 1st generation Tundra. Even at 300,000 miles plus, it feels sporty, more nimble and tight. Major repairs to date 1 coil pack, the starter, tie rod ends (small lift 2" in front 1.5" rear), brake master cylinder, brake booster and timing belt service. Thats it!
     
    Last edited: Oct 3, 2019
  15. Oct 7, 2019 at 11:03 AM
    #105
    deke1691

    deke1691 New Member

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    Yours has 100k more than mine, but I’d still keep it. Besides, who want payments?
     
  16. Feb 4, 2020 at 3:16 PM
    #106
    migx333

    migx333 New Member

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    OP, Did you ever make that switch from 3rd gen tacoma to 1st gen tundra?
    I'm on the same boat and came across this post.

    I have a 2016 TRD Sport and i keep looking around for a first gen tundra.

    - I like to live in my truck for 2-3 months at a time, the shortbed is too small so I was either going to make a switch to a 1st gen tundra or a 3rd gen long bed to have more options if i wanted to switch to a Four wheel camper in the future.

    - I am not very mechanically inclined, and thats what im seeing which may be an issue if i got a first gen tundy. I also wouldn't mind just taking her to a shop whenever I need something done.

    - Would like to hit overlanding trails across the US and Canada, possibly mexico as well. So would definitely want a reliable rig to get me out of the trail in those trips.

    any advice is appreciated!

    TLDR: need a longer bed to replace my shortbed, torn between just getting a DCLB 3rd gen tacoma or a 1st gen DC tundra

    IMG_1206.jpg
     
  17. Feb 4, 2020 at 3:42 PM
    #107
    Bubbadog

    Bubbadog New Member

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    I recently test drove a new 2020 Tacoma Double Cab TRD Off Road and considered getting rid of my 2001 Tundra Access Cab. The V8 powertrain in my Tundra is much better than the 3.5l V6 Tacoma. The new Tacoma did not seem to have much low end torque and the power seems to be at the higher RPM range. The transmission also gear hunts a lot on the highway. Although the exterior dimensions of both trucks are very close, the cab of my Tundra seems much more spacious. As an experienced/capable mechanic, I think you may really like a first gen Tundra. You probably would not lose any money if and when you got bored with the Tundra. These old Tundras are pretty much fully depreciated and if you DIY the needed maintenance, it would be a very inexpensive vehicle to own.
     
    speedtre likes this.
  18. Feb 4, 2020 at 3:47 PM
    #108
    migx333

    migx333 New Member

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    Thankss!
    Exactly what i was thinking. If i downgraded to a 1st gen I even get about $15k-$18k back in my pocket since my truck is fully paid

    my 2016 only has 24k miles and I'm already bored of it :(
     
  19. Feb 4, 2020 at 3:54 PM
    #109
    Bubbadog

    Bubbadog New Member

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    I really wanted to like the new Tacoma. I think they look great but the powertrain was a disappointment. The first gen Tundras are a little more spacious and have a great 4.7l V8.
     
    speedtre likes this.
  20. Feb 4, 2020 at 4:01 PM
    #110
    Baller

    Baller New Member

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    This is true but, know what you're getting into. You're buying a significantly older truck. That isn't to say you're going to have real big problems but, you will be running into needing things such as ball joints, bushings and seals. You won't have any of that with the newer truck. If you're a capable shade tree mechanic, you may love it. If not, it may nag at you and get old real quickly. It's really depends on your personality.
     
  21. Mar 25, 2020 at 10:34 PM
    #111
    migx333

    migx333 New Member

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    Update:

    I pulled the trigger and got a 2005 SR5 4x4 Tundra with 158k miles
    Timing belt, Lower ball joint, Serpentine belt, water pump all done
    $12,500
    Came with extended icons, UCA, other goodies.

    The V8, throttle response, power, space, large bed is so worth it. I absolutely do not regret my decision
    The only thing I miss in the Tacoma is the tech, compactness in city driving, and turning radius for trails.

    Cheers!

    IMG_2077.jpg
    IMG_2140.jpg
    IMG_2098.jpg
     
  22. Mar 26, 2020 at 10:34 PM
    #112
    beretdra

    beretdra New Member

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    Definitely an 05-06 Tundra. Check the Million mile Tundra it has the V8 Engine that is on the 06. Made in the Princeton, Indiana. [​IMG]
     
    empty_lord likes this.
  23. Mar 26, 2020 at 10:36 PM
    #113
    beretdra

    beretdra New Member

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    congrats migx333
     
    migx333 likes this.
  24. Mar 26, 2020 at 10:59 PM
    #114
    empty_lord

    empty_lord They see me rollin'

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    Tech can be added. Just look at what I’ve done! Lol these are great trucks and you’ll enjoy the purchase for years to come
     
    bmf4069 likes this.
  25. Mar 26, 2020 at 11:08 PM
    #115
    migx333

    migx333 New Member

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    I started adding some tech !
    Put the bluetooth driver to run it while my phone is mounted and this headunit with carplay is the best!
    Put some sound deadening in my doors, added a front and backup camera and I'm already starting to forget about my old Tacoma

    IMG_0597-preview.jpg
    IMG_2166.jpg
     
    bmf4069 and empty_lord[QUOTED] like this.
  26. Mar 26, 2020 at 11:10 PM
    #116
    empty_lord

    empty_lord They see me rollin'

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    I’ve been debating about a front camera. I’m still trying to hunt down a 2020 86 CarPlay radio. None yet (yes I’m difficult and didn’t go with an aftermarket radio)
     
  27. Dec 15, 2020 at 10:19 AM
    #117
    Northboundtundra

    Northboundtundra Northboundtundra

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    Manual transmission and transfer case converted with lift, sliders, RTT rack, offset wheels and mud tires
    I put a manual trans in my tundra and it pretty sweet! Now looking into an aluminum tray and FWC camper. Wish ARB made the bp-51 kit for these trucks...
     
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  28. Feb 5, 2021 at 5:51 PM
    #118
    migx333

    migx333 New Member

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    Update on my switch from the '16 Tacoma to a First Gen Tundra:


    January 2021: absolutely do not regret it. V8 in this first gen tundra is the best of both worlds.
    - full sized bed
    - 4 doors
    - almost identical size to the new gen tacomas, was able to fit in tight obstacles my other tacoma buddies fit in
    - perfect amount of power
    - Drives pretty smooth for a 15 year old truck
    - VERY reliable, haven't had to do any maintenance stuff so far. Just preventative stuff for an older truck

    Any questions, hit me up.



    Heres my build page
    https://www.tundras.com/threads/mad-maxyy-05-dc-4x4-survival-rig.69407/#post-2087283




    Anza2020-25_Original.jpg
    IMG_5180.jpg
    IMG_5118.jpg
     
    speedtre, Lil Steve, MS22 and 2 others like this.
  29. Feb 5, 2021 at 5:55 PM
    #119
    des2mtn

    des2mtn Third Member

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  30. Feb 5, 2021 at 6:20 PM
    #120
    migx333

    migx333 New Member

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    Good eye! yupp
    I was able to fit in the slot part with the Tundra. Was pretty surprised about that. Didnt get a picture in that spot but it was the one further down where you have to fold your mirrors.

    IMG_7036.jpg
     
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