This is an amazing resource and its my first post...and I did watch the "thou shalt abide video" (laughing here)

I'm planning a long, cross-country trip with my beloved 2000 Tacoma extended cab, it has about 160,000 miles on it. My guess is I will put 9,000 miles on the truck over 5-6 weeks driving almost 100% highway miles...and other than myself and my gear the truck will be empty.

I'm planning the following prep for the trip and would be grateful for any supportive advice or additional things I should be doing to make the truck really ready.

1.) New plugs and plug wire set - planning on buying NKG "premium" wire set and Denso iridium plugs...both from sparkplugs.com Not sure if I need a new coil - can't remember if it was ever replaced.

2.) New radiator hoses (the radiator is about 25 months old - was fully replaced), set of spares. Full flush, new coolant, and thermostat.

3.) New belts and a set of spares.

4.) Routine change of transmission and transaxle fluids - I've been using a 75-90 Mobil 1 synthetic and it seems good.

5.) Planning to carry extra oil filters.

6.) Are there other spares I should consider carrying? Fuel or water pumps?

Have I missed anything?

Thanks in advance for all your help!!!!

Best,

Michael

 

If you have a manual trans, read this before changing the trans gear oil https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/m.../#post51442916

When was the last timing belt/water pump change?

Always carry the tools needed to do possible repairs.

It's hard to carry "spares" for everything. A starter or alternator could go out at any time OR last for ever.

New battery? or jumper cables? or if a manual you can kick start it in a pinch.

I do carry my old drive belts after changing to new, no need to carry a set of new belts.

 

Hey thanks Gerdo! About the timing belt...this truck has the 2.7L four which, I am told, doesn't need a timing belt/chain change. I don't think the water pump has ever been replaced...should I do that now?

I should have mentioned I have all tools, a recovery kit and jumper cables so I am set for that.

Your 4Runner is quite sweet...love the front bumper.

Michael

 

It's time to change out the water pump unless it was already done. It should be replaced every 90K. The timing chain has no replacement interval - it's considered a lifetime part.

 

the water pump would be great preventative maintenance. the plugs/wires wont necessarily leave you stranded but will help with mileage slightly.. other then that you are forgetting one very important part.. your tires!! on a long distance trip they are the first thing to get overlooked and usually the first thing to fail make sure you have a good aired up spare. also, as for a spare parts list, I would make sure you have... an extra u-joint, tire valves, fuel filter, pcv valve, wheel barrings, and an extra quart (at least) of every fluid your truck needs..

also you will want to do all your pre-trip maintenance about 1month before your trip, that way you can make sure any part you use is completely compatible and non defective at home instead of miles away from familiarity.

and last but first.. make sure you have a first aid kit, and know how to use it.. good luck man!!

 

Hey thanks for all this. I've nailed down the part numbers for the water pump and I'll get it changed out in the next week or two. Good advice about having the key pieces installed a month before traveling...thanks!

Michael

 

Tell us about the trip.