So, you just got your Toyota Tacoma. Congratulations! You own one of the most formidable off-roading machines on the market. Your mission now, should you choose to accept it, is shaping your Tacoma into the truck you need it to be. With so many modding options available, you’re faced with a dizzying array of products. If you’re having a tough time deciding where to start, that’s understandable. But this guide can help you make sense of things as you shop for your first Tacoma parts and upgrades.
Toyota Tacoma Lift Kits
To lift or not to lift – that’s often the first question an off-roader must answer. Yet you must also choose the best type of lift to meet your needs. Riders typically select either a body lift or a suspension lift. Each has its own set of benefits and appropriate uses, so consider carefully before you buy.
If you’re aiming for larger tires and boosting your truck’s ride height, a body lift may be the way to go. They only lift a vehicle’s body above its frame, so no changes are made to its suspension, steering or drivetrain. If you plan to do a lot of off-roading, especially on tricky terrain, you’re better off with a suspension lift. These raise up a vehicle’s suspension system, increasing ground clearance and enhancing off-road suspension performance.
Now that you know the type of Tacoma lift kits available, you’ll want to explore some available options. You’ll see lots of positive reviews about Daystar body lift kits, especially the 3-inch versions. Rough Country offers 3-, 4- and 6-inch suspension lifts for the Tacoma. These suspension lifts also include shocks – Rough Country often pairs its kits with N3 nitrogen-charged shock absorbers for improved responsiveness and damping.
Tire and Wheel Packages
Do you shop for lift kits first, or should you look at tires before lift kits? This is a good question, given how one affects the other. But you don’t have to make any hard decisions right now. You may want to look at Tacoma wheel and tire package options next and pick one that best fits your goals.
Tire and wheel packages are proprietary creations because individual dealers put them together. You may find a package you like at one retailer but not at a competitor. However, you’ll see some popular combinations designed to deliver the best performance possible. Many combine all-terrain tires with durable rims to withstand the rigors of off-roading on multiple types of ground.
The Pro Comp A/T Sport is a popular tire choice in many wheel-tire packages. The A/T Sport effortlessly handles soft and hard ground, dry or wet, thanks to a staggered tread design, alternating tread blocks, sweeping groove technology and side holder lugs. Pro Comp’s tough all-terrain tread compound improves tire life and helps provide a smoother, quieter ride. You’ll often find the A/T Sport paired with LRG rims, known for their superior durability.
Where To Find Your Upgrades
Besides lift kits, tires and wheels, you can find many more upgrades at your favorite off-roading parts and accessories dealer. Its extensive selection, first-class service and expertise are valuable during your Tacoma modding projects.
