FINALLY!!!
It only took 5 months, but I finally got the title signed and notarized. So, this toy is now MY TOY.
I've been driving the truck since May, and haven't had any problems. I tracked down a bunch of the service records from Mostly Toyota (dba Mostly Auto) in Asheville, and confirmed that the head gasket recall was already taken care of a dozen years ago.
I will read back through this thread to see what leads I can follow up on, but here is what will need to happen to the truck to make it better mechanically:
new complete exhaust ; new brakes ; new rear springs ; new tires ; fix heat ; and fix some window problems. I have a lead on a set of used Goodyear Wranglers, so I might be able to pick those up soon. What about brakes? Seems like Autozone has all the parts for a decent price -- are there any better options?
The motor is burning oil, not sure exactly how much, but it seems like I need to add about 3/4 of a quart every 1000K. Also have a small power steering fluid leak that originates from the under the reservoir - not huge, but enough to drip on everything below.
Shifter pops out of first gear periodically, as soon as I release the clutch pedal -- not during acceleration, only at dead start. This happens about once or twice a month, so I'm not too worried, but I would like to know if this could be a symptom of an old clutch, worn linkage, or something else...? I don't think that I have any record of the clutch ever being replaced, so it could be original for all I know...
Still have designs on making some alterations to the drivers seat frame for more legroom. Also intend to remove running boards and fabricate something else as a step bar. I used the stock luggage rack on a recent trip for my car-top carrier, and it worked well, but I would also like to fabricate a stronger roof rack system that could hold a canoe...or my mountain bike...or a bunch of lumber...but I will start a new thread for all that...
Odometer just clicked past 201,000!!~
-Scott-