1990 Toyota Pickup That Traveled The Globe

The “Little Red” Pickup That Could: This Backyard-Bound 4×4 Takes the Adventure of a Lifetime.

The first time we saw Little Red, our 1990 Toyota Pickup, the exhaust system gasped for life. The fenders were transparent from corrosion. The rear bumper was defaced by copper-colored rust, and sported a host of stickers affixed by a paddling enthusiast. (“Canadian Paddlers Kick Ass,” read one). The cracked windshield welcomed the incessant rains of the Pacific Northwest inward. The seats, carpet, and dashboard looked (and smelled) of mildew and mold.

The build was simple and intentionally budget friendly. We wanted to keep aftermarket parts to a minimum, focusing on enhancing the truck’s reliability and prioritizing funds for the trip itself.

Finding “Little Red”

My husband Richard popped open the hood of the 1990 Toyota Pickup and was immediately intrigued by the 22RE. These engines were highly regarded, but were becoming a rarity, even back in 2013. He turned the key in the ignition. The truck fired up immediately. The air reeked of unburned hydrocarbons, but the Pickup’s solid frame and body offered a glimmer of hope. It was apparent that this vehicle had good bones.

Richard tells me that as he toured his hometown of Powell River, British Columbia, the truck’s bench-seat springs imprinted into his backside. The speedometer cable squeaked, and the wheel bearing was so loose that it creaked over every bump in the road.

Prior to our possession of the 1990 Toyota Pickup, a local plumbing company used it for hauling equipment, including 300-pound heat pumps, copper pipe and scrap metal. By the time we laid eyes on it, the truck’s odometer read 321,251 kilometers, and every single vital engine sensor had failed.

This was the truck we decided to drive to South America.

Built for Adventure: Solid Axle Strength and Shift-Your-Own-Gears Simplicity

One of the biggest advantages Little Red brings to the table is its classic solid front axle. Sure, it’s not the latest trend in fancy suspension wizardry, but there’s a reason overlanders, farmers, and off-road diehards (think: Land Rover Defenders and old-school Land Cruisers) swear by it. Solid axles are known for being unbelievably tough; they can shrug off the kind of hits and punishment that leave independent suspension systems whimpering. On the trail, this means better articulation and reliability when you’re crawling over rocks, ruts, or crossing a muddy river somewhere deep in Patagonia.

Pair that with a manual transmission—the legendary five-speed—and you get another dose of old-school reliability plus real trail control. When you’re climbing up a mountain pass or inching down a slippery slope in the Andes, you want to decide exactly how much torque gets to the wheels and when. Manuals thrive on that kind of challenge. They’re simple to repair, fun to drive, and give you direct feedback from the truck, rather than leaving things up to a wandering mind of electronics. If you’re venturing thousands of miles from home, fewer complications (and no transmission computers) means fewer headaches along the way.

Put together, the solid front axle and manual gearbox make Little Red a partner you can trust—rugged enough for the unknown, but simple and honest enough that even a shade-tree mechanic could keep it rolling with basic tools. That reassurance is worth its weight in rusted fenders when you’re a continent away from the nearest tow truck.

Getting the Bug

Our introduction to overlanding occurred by way of a Dragoman Overland sticker affixed to the wall of an Istanbul hostel in 2012. Next, we familiarized ourselves with travel blogs such as Ruined Adventures, Home on the Highway and Lost World Expedition. These folks traveled along the Pan-American Highway, from Alaska to Argentina, in old Toyotas, including 1987 4Runners and a 60-series Land Cruiser.

Richard’s fond memories of his reliable 1988 4Runner instilled confidence in trucks of that vintage. Additionally, our research indicated that parts availability was decent around the globe. So, we sold our 2000 Chevy Silverado and used the funds to build Little Red.

The air reeked of unburned hydrocarbons, but the Pickup’s solid frame and body offered a glimmer of hope. It was apparent that this vehicle had good bones.

1990 Toyota Pickup Reborn

Liberated from a life of weeds and neglect, our Pickup underwent a rapid transformation. Richard replaced Little Red’s stock suspension with an Old Man Emu system. Its signature yellow shocks still peek from beneath the rig. He changed the brakes, and freshened up the steering components, including tie-rod ends, ball joints and idler arm.

To further bolster Little Red’s off-road capability, Richard installed a 2-inch lift—granting much-needed ground clearance for rocky backroads and the kind of questionable “roads” found south of the border. With 4 Low engaged and the hubs locked, not much stood in this truck’s way. For added comfort (and to shore up the ride quality), the rear shocks were swapped out, making corrugated dirt tracks far less punishing on our spines.

No overland build would be complete without the right shoes. To bridge the gap between pedal and pavement, we mounted a fresh set of Falken all-terrain tires on all four corners. Not only did they look the part, their aggressive tread offered the promise of grip through mud, sand, and snow—while taming road noise for those endless highway miles.

These updates, along with the installation of a fresh 22RE motor built by Disturbed Industries, took place over several weekends. Richard also built a custom Unistrut roof rack in our apartment building’s underground parking area in Vancouver. We topped the rack with a Mt. Bachelor CVT roof top tent, which we slept in for the first time on the night of our departure south.

In preparation for a 2020 departure, we began studying the Cyrillic alphabet, practicing basic Russian phrases, creating a spreadsheet with visa requirements, and making changes to Little Red based on what we learned during our Pan-American trip.

The build was simple and intentionally budget-friendly. We wanted to keep aftermarket parts to a minimum. By focusing on enhancing the truck’s reliability, we were able to prioritize funds for the trip itself.

We threw tools and gear thrown into blue Rubbermaid containers and bulky plastic Action Packers. I lugged along my full-size suitcase, which in hindsight seems ridiculous. But this illustrates that Richard and I left with much of what we already owned.

Hitting The Road

We departed in early October 2013, quickly driving south to escape cool autumn temperatures. For eight months, Little Red transported us to the beaches of Baja and across mainland Mexico. We traveled into Belize and through Guatemala, and explored black sand beaches in El Salvador. We volunteered for the Honduras Child Alliance in El Porvenir, Honduras, went volcano boarding in Nicaragua and crossed the muddy rivers of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula.

Road living was cheap, so we averaged around $70 USD per day. Although our living expenses were far lower than at home, our bank account was looking a bit worse for wear. So, we parked the Pickup in a government-bonded warehouse in San Jose, Costa Rica, and flew home to work in Vancouver.

One year later, we packed Little Red into a shipping container bound for Colombia via the Panama Canal. Once the truck landed on South American soil, we continued through the jungles of Ecuador. Then, we visited bountiful mountain markets in Peru. We watched flamingos glide across lakes in Bolivia’s altiplano.

All the while, Little Red somehow ran better than ever on poor-quality fuel and a lack of oxygen at over 5,000 meters of elevation. It made it all the way to the city of Ushuaia, Argentina. Located at the southern edge of the archipelago of Tierra del Fuego, it marks the furthest southern point we drove by land.

Bringing This 1990 Pickup into the 21st Century

One of our favorite additions to the build was a 35-liter ARB fridge. It kept our produce fresh in the sweltering heat of the Yucatan and the humidity of the Colombian coast. An Optima Yellowtop Deep Cycle Battery charged by an 85-watt Samlex solar panel, kept the fridge, our electronics and my hair tools running.

An ARB Awning 2000 protected us from the glaring sun in the world’s largest salt flat in Bolivia, and kept us dry during torrential downpours on Central America’s Caribbean coast.

Little Red sported a set of ProComp 265/75R16 Xtreme Mud Terrains wrapped around Eagle Alloy Series 100 wheels. After 60,000 kilometers of hard driving over countless bone-rattling topes (speedbumps) in Mexico, steep and rutted backroads in Guatemala, and remote washboard-filled tracks in Argentina, we experienced only one flat tire.

Largest Tire Sizes on Stock Suspension

Curious how big you can go with tires before needing to break out the angle grinder or invest in a lift kit? For most stock Toyota pickups—think classic 4WD Hilux or the much-loved 1990 Pickup like our Little Red—the largest commonly recommended tire size is typically 31×10.5R15. This diameter fits without major rubbing or the need to trim fenders, even once you pile in gear from your mountain market hauls or bounce through Bolivian salt flats.

Some adventurous souls squeeze in 32-inch tires (such as 265/75R16) on stock suspension, especially with wheels that have the right offset. But clearance can get tight around the wheel wells, especially if you’re loaded down with a full fridge, Action Packers, and a suitcase of questionable necessity. Expect minor rubbing at full steering lock or during hard suspension articulation unless you’re willing to do some minor tweaks.

Bottom line:

• 31×10.5R15 (or equivalent in metric sizing) is the safest big tire for stock running gear
• 32-inch options might work if you accept a little compromise, or a little trimming
• Anything bigger, and you’re venturing into “lift kit strongly recommended” territory

Wander far, but maybe not too wide—at least until you’re ready for the next round of upgrades.

Perhaps one of the most interesting changes to the build is the addition of a Total Chaos +3.25-inch long-travel suspension kit and Icon Vehicle Dynamics 2.5 shocks. Basically, this effectively doubles our wheel travel. The new system will support the current payload and provide us with better performance both on road and off. To avoid carrying multiple jerry cans and to allow us to be selective with where we re-fuel, Richard also installed a 125-liter Long Range Automotive fuel tank.

Wiring Aftermarket Lights

Installing aftermarket lights on an old Toyota pickup is a game-changer for night driving and remote track adventures. Here’s how we tackled this glowing upgrade—and what you’ll want to do to ensure your lights don’t fizzle out on the first bump.

First, we mapped out where we wanted additional illumination—front bumper and roof rack are both excellent candidates. After choosing a set of LED light bars and compact spotlights, Richard set about the not-so-glamorous task of running wire.

• Plan Your Route: Tuck wires along existing factory harnesses whenever possible. This keeps everything protected and out of sight.
• Relays and Fuses: Always use relays to prevent frying your switches and incorporate inline fuses right at the battery for safety.
• Switch Placement: Mount switches within easy reach, ideally on the dash or a custom pod. No one likes digging around in the dark with a headlamp just to turn on their lights.
• Grounding: Attach ground wires to clean, paint-free metal points on the chassis for the best connection.
• Test Before Buttoning Up: Double-check all connections, test each light, and only secure everything once you’re sure it all works.

With the wiring buttoned up, our nighttime drives—whether across Patagonia or just through a foggy patch in the Rockies—got a whole lot brighter. And perhaps, just a touch more dramatic.

Removing the Secondary Air Filter

To give Little Red a bit more breathing room, we opted to remove the secondary air filter—a common upgrade for those looking to optimize airflow, especially at higher elevations. The process is pretty straightforward:

• First, locate the main air filter housing under the hood. The secondary filter sits just behind the primary element.
• Pop open the airbox clamps and gently lift off the lid.
• Slide out the secondary filter. It may be clipped in—light pressure will usually free it.
• Double-check that no debris has fallen into the intake before snapping the airbox closed.

Less restriction here means better performance when running thin mountain air or less-than-ideal fuels, which was a game changer for us all the way from Bolivia’s salt flats to Argentina’s wind-blasted highways.

Comparing Oil Filters for Toyota Pickups

When it comes to keeping Little Red’s legendary 22RE running strong—especially after thousands of kilometers spent bouncing around Latin America—choosing the right oil filter matters more than you might think. Through research, wrenching, and the occasional roadside oil change, we’ve picked up a thing or two about oil filter options for Toyota pickups.

Most quality oil filters will keep your engine happy, but they’re not all created equal. Here’s how some of the major contenders compare:

• Filtration Efficiency: Top-tier filters like the OEM Toyota, Wix, and Mobil 1 all offer fine filtration with synthetic media, trapping even the tiniest particles. Fram Ultra is another solid option for extra-long intervals, while basic off-brands can sometimes let more grit sneak through.
• Build Quality: Look for metal end caps, sturdy anti-drainback valves (usually silicone, not cheap rubber), and strong canisters—vital for withstanding rough washboard trails. Bosch and K&N filters are particularly robust, so they can handle more abuse.
• Ease of Installation/Removal: Some aftermarket filters come with easy-grip textures or built-in nuts, making oil changes less of a knuckle-busting ordeal. Handy when you’re changing oil in the dusty parking lot of a Peruvian mercado.
• Availability and Price: The Toyota OEM filter tends to set the gold standard and is easy to find across North America, but brands like Purolator and Baldwin offer solid performance for less, and are sometimes more readily available in remote locales.

After all the upgrades on our truck, opting for a high-quality filter feels like a small investment in peace of mind—especially when the next oil change might be a few hundred kilometers of corrugated gravel down the road.

Towing Tips for Toyota Pickups

When it comes to towing with a Toyota pickup, there are a few key guidelines to keep in mind for both safety and performance on the road. First, always check your owner’s manual for the specific towing capacity of your model—while our 1990 pickup certainly isn’t breaking any land-speed records, it has its own set of limits. In general, most mid-sized Toyota pickups can handle anywhere from 3,500 to 6,500 pounds, depending on the year and engine.

Proper weight distribution is crucial. Make sure to keep about 60% of the load in front of the trailer axle and always double-check your hitch and safety chains before hitting the highway. Upgrading your suspension and brakes—similar to our Total Chaos suspension kit and Icon shocks—can help manage heavier loads and provide better control, especially on those steep mountain passes or endless stretches of rippled gravel. Tire pressure matters too; overweight trailers and under-inflated tires are the fastest way to a roadside pit stop.

If you plan to venture off the beaten path or tackle higher elevations, invest in a transmission cooler to guard against overheating. And remember, exceeding your vehicle’s rated towing capacity isn’t just hard on the engine and transmission—it’ll also put a dent in your fuel economy and your adventure fund. Taking a few extra precautions ensures you and your trusty Toyota will keep rolling—no matter how gnarly the road ahead might look.

What’s Next?

Richard and I have been back in Western Canada for several years now. However, our itch to travel the world is now stronger than ever. In preparation for a 2020 departure, we began studying the Cyrillic alphabet, and practicing basic Russian phrases. We created a spreadsheet with visa requirements, and made changes to Little Red based on what we learned during our Pan-American trip.

We investigated shipping routes from Canada to Europe, and set our sights on overlanding from Europe across Central Asia and Russia. From there, we planned to drive through to South Korea and Japan. We hope this trip along the iconic Silk Road route will come to fruition when global travel restrictions ease.

Little Red 2.0

In the meantime, Little Red Version 2.0 is well underway. With 420,000 kilometers on the odometer and some experience under our belts, we have a better idea of what is important to us.

Despite the miles, our trusty Toyota is just getting broken in. These trucks are famously indestructible—solid-axle workhorses that seem to take whatever we throw at them, from Bolivian salt flats to Canadian Rockies. Little Red’s reliability and ruggedness have become the foundation we build every new adventure on, giving us the confidence to keep pushing the boundaries of where we can go.

We’ve replaced the canopy and roof top tent with a Go Fast Camper. It provides adequate inside living space for cooking in poor weather, working remotely or escaping the cold. We also installed two off-the-shelf Goose Gear drawer modules. These replace the bins and plywood drawer system that Richard built while we were in Ecuador. Ultimately, we decided to prioritize streamlining organization in the vehicle’s rear.

By refining both our setup and our approach, we’re aiming for a blend of capability and comfort—ready for whatever the next stretch of Silk Road (or Siberian backroad) decides to throw our way.

A pair of 100-watt Samlex solar panels, a Redarc BCDC1225D, and two Full River AGM DC85-12 batteries will help power our gadgets and electronics, as we intend to work remotely during the next phase of our travels. We also splashed out, adding a Planar diesel heater, which will help take the edge off as temperatures cool in the fall and winter as we inch closer to the wilds of Siberia.

Upgrading Performance

People often ask us why we choose to travel in a thirty-year-old vehicle. The truck’s cab is tiny, air conditioning is non-existent, and it lacks the modern bells and whistles to which we’re all accustomed. Little Red is slow, loud, and outdated.

But we will continue to explore the world with this classic 1990 Toyota Pickup because it evokes smiles and stories from strangers about their old Toyota trucks. We also want to show that it’s possible. You might be surprised where that vehicle resting in your driveway—or in the back forty—can take you.

Changing the Spark Plugs

Maintaining Little Red’s performance isn’t rocket science, but it does require a bit of elbow grease—and sometimes, getting your hands dirty is half the fun. Swapping out spark plugs is a simple job that ensures the engine fires up reliably, no matter what far-flung corner of the globe we find ourselves in.

Here’s our go-to process for changing the spark plugs on our 1990 Toyota Pickup:

1. Gather your tools and parts. You’ll need a new set of spark plugs (we recommend NGK or Denso for these older Toyotas), a ratchet, a long extension, a spark plug socket, and a torque wrench if you have one.
2. Work on a cool engine. Let the truck sit until it’s cool to the touch—nobody enjoys wrestling with sizzling cylinder heads.
3. Remove the plug wires. Gently twist and pull each wire off the spark plugs. If you’re not confident about which wire goes where, take a quick photo before you begin.
4. Remove old spark plugs. Using your spark plug socket and extension, loosen and carefully extract each plug. A little anti-seize on the threads can be helpful if they’re stubborn.
5. Check and gap the new plugs. Most come pre-gapped, but it’s never a bad idea to double-check the gap against Toyota’s specifications using a feeler gauge.
6. Install new plugs. Thread each new spark plug in by hand to avoid cross-threading, then snug them down with your socket. If you’ve got a torque wrench handy, even better—aim for the manufacturer’s recommended torque spec.
7. Reconnect the plug wires. Press each wire firmly onto its spark plug until you feel it seat with a satisfying click.

Just like that, Little Red is ready for the next adventure—whether it’s creeping over the mountains of Kyrgyzstan or rolling down the Alaska Highway. Regular spark plug changes help keep that legendary 22RE engine purring for another hundred thousand kilometers (or more).

UPGRADES

1990 Toyota Pickup

ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN: 22RE 2.4L and 5-Speed Manual Transmission; 22RE rebuilt by Disturbed Industries; LC Engineering Pro Torquer camshaft; LC Engineering Pro Cylinder Head valve train kit, Double Roller Timing Chain kit, Adjustable Cam Gear, High-Torque (30lb) Flywheel and 4-into-1 header; Marlin Crawler HD Clutch; Vintage Celica (1983 only!) 22RE valve cover

Handy Resources for DIY Oil Changes

If you’re looking to roll up your sleeves and tackle an oil change yourself, you’ll find plenty of helpful resources tailored to Toyota pickups—both classic and modern. Over the years, we’ve leaned on a mix of service manuals, Haynes and Chilton guides, and the wealth of step-by-step tutorials available on YouTube (channels like ChrisFix are especially beginner-friendly).

Online forums also host a treasure trove of advice, troubleshooting tips, and walkthroughs for just about every model and engine. Even Reddit’s /r/MechanicAdvice and Toyota-specific owner forums are worth a browse when you’re in the thick of things. If you’re new to wrenching, it’s always a good idea to have a print or PDF version of your truck’s factory service manual on hand—it’ll cover everything from recommended oil types to tightening torque specs.

For hands-on step-by-step guidance, don’t overlook the detailed guides available on sites like Haynes Manuals Online, or the video tutorials created by passionate Toyota enthusiasts. With the right info and a few basic tools, you’ll be able to keep Little Red—and maybe your own old rig—on the road for many adventures to come.

SUSPENSION: Total Chaos +3.25 “Caddy Kit” Long-Travel Suspension; Total Chaos idler arm; Icon Vehicle Dynamics 2.5 shocks (Emulsion coil-over and piggyback bypass with CDCV in front, remote reservoir with CDCV in rear); Eibach 500lb/in coil springs; Sky’s Off-Road Design Stage 2 63” Chevy Spring Hanger Kit; Custom 63” Chevy springs; Timbren bump stops front/rear; G2 Axle 1.5” forged rear wheel spacers; Dobinsons steering stabilizer

SPARK PLUGS: When it comes to spark plugs for the 22RE engine in our 1990 Toyota Pickup, we recommend opting for high-quality iridium or platinum-tipped plugs. Brands like Denso and NGK offer reliable options designed to deliver consistent ignition performance and longevity—a real bonus when remote travel means you’ll want to minimize roadside repairs. Whether you’re driving through city streets or bouncing down a back road in Tajikistan, these spark plugs help ensure smooth starting and efficient fuel combustion.

For the best results, stick with the manufacturer-specified heat range, and always carry a spare set—just in case.

WHEELS AND TIRES: Fifteen52 TurbomacHD Classic 16×8” wheels; Toyo Tires 285/75R16 AT3 all-terrain tires

INTERIOR: Corbeau Baja RS seats; Hold Fast steering wheel; Tuffy Series II Universal center console

Step inside and you’ll find a cabin purpose-built for both durability and daily comfort. The Corbeau Baja RS seats offer supportive bolstering and an inviting, rugged look—ready for long hauls or quick sprints around town. The Hold Fast steering wheel not only adds tactile feedback, but also brings a dash of personality to the cockpit.

Between the front seats, the Tuffy Series II Universal center console stands ready to keep your essentials secure and organized on any adventure. Classic crank windows at each door lend a touch of old-school charm, while power locks and mirrors help streamline your daily routine. Climate control is straightforward and effective, with cold A/C and reliable heat on demand—ideal for everything from summer trails to chilly morning commutes.

The rear seating area comfortably accommodates up to three passengers, and a sliding rear window lets you welcome in fresh air whenever you want. The headliner and carpets are in solid shape, and all-weather floor mats have been retained to preserve the underlying upholstery. Apart from a small blemish on the driver’s seat bolster, the interior shows only light signs of use—making it a practical and inviting space for your next journey.

EXTERIOR: Custom 2.25” Magnaflow exhaust; Full Throttle Battery FT825-78; Slee battery terminals; Long Range America TH105ER 125-liter replacement fuel tank; ARB CKMA24 Air Compressor; G2 Axle and Gear 4.88 gears front/rear; Nitro Gear and Axle torsion-style rear limited-slip; Longfield chromoly rear axles; Baja Designs LP9 Sport lights; ARB Deluxe front bumper; Warn M8000-S winch; Trail Gear rock sliders; Trail Gear rear bumper

POWER: Samlex 100W solar panels x2; Redarc BCDC1225D In-Vehicle battery charger; Full River Battery DC85-12 x2; Samlex PST-600 600W inverter; Blue Sea Systems 6-blade fuse block and USB plugs; Victron Energy Smart Shunt

Wiring Harnesses, Fuse Kits, and Electrical Connectors

When it comes to tackling electrical upgrades or repairs on a classic rig—or even something a tad newer—a few must-have components will keep your wiring projects running smoothly.

Wiring Harness Solutions:
For enthusiasts adding new accessories like horns, auxiliary lighting, or specialty chargers, dedicated 12V wiring harnesses with integrated relays and switches make installation simple and reliable. These kits often feature weather-resistant connectors designed to stand up to water, mud, and dust—perfect for life on (and off) the road.

Fuse Tap Kits:
Protecting your circuits is non-negotiable. Fuse tap kits, specifically designed for automotive blade fuses (like your standard ATO/ATC), allow you to safely add fused circuits to your vehicle’s existing fuse box—ideal for powering radios, USB chargers, or any add-ons that make road life better.

Battery Connection Cables:
Whether you need a direct-to-battery charging cable with a cigarette lighter plug, or a robust SAE quick disconnect cable for solar panels or battery maintainers, there are plenty of options. Look for heavy-gauge, weatherproof models that include built-in fuses and indicator LEDs to make setup foolproof.

Panel Mount Power Ports:
For those wanting a clean, permanent way to bring power to the vehicle’s exterior (think solar or winch controls), sidewall ports with SAE connectors are straightforward to install and keep your connection points protected when not in use.

Waterproof Electrical Connectors:
It pays to invest in a kit of heat shrink, solder seal connectors that create watertight, corrosion-resistant splices. These are especially handy for wiring repairs in the field or when adding accessories under the hood or along the frame.

Speaker Harness Adapters:
If upgrading your in-cab audio, vehicle-specific speaker wiring harness adapters make swapping out speakers a plug-and-play affair—no cutting or splicing needed.

Additionally, if you’re replacing the factory head unit, most setups place the audio controls right below the climate controls for easy access. While older stereo units may be showing their age, swapping in a modern replacement is straightforward and something most local audio shops can handle quickly. With the right harness adapters, you’ll have crisp sound and seamless integration with your vehicle’s existing electronics, all without the hassle of complicated wiring work.

With these electrical essentials tucked in your toolbox (or Goose Gear drawers), you’re better equipped to handle upgrades and repairs no matter where your travels take you.

CAMPER: Go Fast Camper V1; ARB Touring awning; Goose Gear drawer systems; Custom kitchen cabinet; Planar 2D-HA-PU5-(TR) diesel heater; Dometic CFX3 fridge/freezer; Dometic V8000 sink; Shurflo water pump and faucet; Baja Designs push-button dome lights

Toyota Pickup How-To Guides Across Generations

If you’re looking to dive deeper into maintenance and modification projects for your Toyota pickup—regardless of which vintage you’re wrenching on—there’s a wealth of how-to guides available for every generation. Whether your toolkit is aimed at a classic first-generation model (1995-2004), the steadfast and reliable second generation (2005-2015), or the more modern third gen (2016 and beyond), you’ll find detailed walkthroughs to assist with both routine upkeep and more ambitious upgrades.

Here’s how the resources typically break down:

• First Generation (1995-2004): Expect step-by-step guides for suspension refreshes, engine servicing, basic troubleshooting, and those signature old-school tweaks that keep these legends humming.
• Second Generation (2005-2015): You’ll find instructionals covering drivetrain mods, revised electrical systems, off-road gear installations, and interior restoration. These manuals often lean on tried-and-tested brands like Old Man Emu for suspension overhauls and Total Chaos for long-travel setups.
• Third Generation (2016+): For the newest models, guides address the latest tech integrations, advanced electronics, solar installs for overland builds, and comprehensive accessory fitting—perfect for anyone blending weekend adventures with remote work.

So, whether you’re coaxing life into a rough-and-ready classic or fitting out a daily driver for your next backcountry escape, there’s no shortage of detailed, generation-specific guides to keep your project on track.