Keeping a Legend Alive: 1GT Refresh Story

Hey everyone, just wanted to document the work I've been doing on my 1GT. My dad recently got a new Tacoma and was gracious enough to turn over his '01 Tundra to me. She's been an outside girl most her life, hence the paint failure. Despite her weathered appearance, everything under the hood has been maintained well and the frame looks solid (perks of living in Southern California). She's only got a little over 123k miles on her, so I'm going to do my best to keep her running for a long time. This community has helped fuel my obsession for this truck and has been invaluable in helping me get all the routine and preventative maintenance done.

Work I've completed since owning the truck:

• OEM LBJ replacement (my dad had aftermarket ones installed, which scared the living shit out of me)
• Outer tie rod end replacement
• Swapped out front 4600s with 5100s and used OEM spring to level the front
• Front rotors and rear drums replacement
• Brake fluid flush
• Power steering pump replacement
• Coolant flush and radiator replacement (to include t-stat, hoses, and OEM cap)
• Spark plug and ignition coil replacement
• Valve cover gasket replacement
• Reverted to OEM wheels (absolutely love the starfishes)
• Aligment
• Removed a crap tint job
  
• Antenna replacement

Timing belt and water pump were replaced last year. Not sure when my dad last changed out oil for the engine, transmission, and rear diff, so I plan on doing those soon for peace of mind. My other main priority is to replace the handle on the tailgate (currently won't open). There are other lower priority jobs I plan on completing. Overall, this truck is a tank and is really fun to work on.

Before:




After:


Looking at the before and after, the changes are pretty subtle. As of now, I plan on keeping her OEM+. Might do some other simple mods in the future (front and rear bumper upgrade???). I'm thinking of ditching the bed cover. I'll also be upgrading to some new tires soon. Falken Rubitrek pizza cutters have been calling my name, or something similar. I plan on updating this thread somewhat regularly to look back on and get recommendations/suggestions. Thanks for reading my refresh story.

 

Good work so far keeping her maintained and going

Did you intend to type OME instead of OEM?

If you did in fact level the front, what spring did you go with? Also, 255/85/16 is a good size for the starfish wheels and a moderate 2" front lift. However, I won't recommend anything without knowing more spring details.

 

Thanks! I used OEM springs set on the third notch. Ride quality is pretty decent so far, no major complaints. Might upgrade to some OME springs in the future though. Would love some tire recs.

 

Looks like a lot of good maintenance.

 

Look at the Master Tailgaters reverse camera tailgater handle. Best upgrade (paired with a new head unit) I’ve done to my truck.