April 17, 2003:
Sorry for the lack of updates or anything peeps. I've decided to go back to school in order to have a better stab at good jobs in the job market. Also, I'm now back on my dad's health insurance so if I get sick I don't rack up a huge medical bill. Unfortunately, this means I don't have much of an income since it's all going towards school now. Keep you guys posted when I can.

Pages:
1) General/Overall
2) Interior

So, here it is, my baby. Not a whole lot of pictures because I haven't done a whole lot to it yet. It's mostly stock and wasn't in very good condition when I got it so I've been fixing it up and getting stuff to work. So far I've thrown on some clear stuff (markers, turn lights, tail lights), getting the fog lights working, and installing a tach. Not a whole lot to talk about, stock 2.4L 22R-E 4cyl engine, Standard cab, 31" Wild Country tires, front locking hubs, recently replaced the clutch and transfer case (should have put in better gears while I had the chance). Future mods include: Roll bar, brush guard, redo stereo system, 3" body lift, rear locking hubs, engine modifications, paint job, the list goes on.

So, why a 1988? Why a Toyota? Personally, I wanted a newer model since after doing some research they had fewer problems regarding rust and I like the look of the 90s more. After several test drives and inspections of the newer models, all I could really find in the papers (I was looking for something under $4k) where 89-92 models with 4-bangers and standard cabs (the king cabs where past my price range). So yeah, after some test driving I found that the 4-banger versions of the newer yotas seemed to have less omph! behind them and I had trouble fitting comfortably in the standard cabs seeing as I'm 6'5". Then this truck rolled along, it had power and I actually fit well in the darn thing without needing to have the seat all the way back (but it still helps). Now, why Toyota? I'm a big fan of foreign cars, I owned two Volkswagons before this truck and loved them, and have never been a very big fan of American cars. After tons of research Toyota seemed to have the highest rating out of all the light trucks out there. That and Toyota's had a reputation for making some of the most reliable engines (22R) on the road so it was really no contest. Everyone I talked to while looking for a truck always said the same thing: "Toyota's #1, then the rest". Made my decision easy.

Anyho, here's some pics for the public.