Hi I just wanted to jump in here and say hello to you all from Thailand. I'm an old hand expat in this country, but a rank newbie to the world of 4-wheel drive trucks and off-roading. I am really excited to be buying my 1st 4X4 and my 1st vehicle of any kind in 8 years! I've been living here on scooters and motorcycles all this time. I did some quick research before buying this great little 2nd hand Tiger, and I think it may possibly become a 'classic' model in another 10 years. I do know first hand that I really liked riding in our northern California hill country in my buddy's 1985 4x4 SR5 when it was new.
I am hoping that some of you experienced Hilux owners will be willing to help me learn everything I can about the strongest and weakest points of this totally stock, low mileage truck. Here are its stats: 2004 Toyota Hilux Tiger D4D 4WD 2dr Ext. Cab pickup - G Limited - 4sp Auto (ECT) with LSD - 3.0L Common Rail Turbo Diesel EFI- engine model": 1KD-FTV - truck model Code: KDN166R-CRPSYTA00 - Power: 123 HP & Torque 315 NM@ 1800RPM - It came with full options including: ABS.driver's air bag, electric everything, blah, blah, plus really handy molded cup holders both fore and aft ! It has only 86,200 KM (verified) on the clock now. It's been garaged; only regular dealer serviced; driven daily (60mph max) on Koh Samui Island, and taken for much longer normal highway runs up to Bangkok or farther at least once or twice a year. It's been used in 4WD maybe a handful of times on wet roads, and only once in the mud in six years. I can't wait to get her good and dirty, myself.It was built here, as well.
My questions will be many, but for now I would very much appreciate learning what you all think of this year/model D4D Tiger ?
What should be my concerns, if any, about its history of gentle daily use? I won't have much cash now for any major modifications. Besides, I've always been a fan of stock pickups and cars due to chronic nostalgia. All my trucks have been classic, stock Fords in the States.
I will be paying $12,500 USD for it, and it cost the original owner maybe $21,000 USD six years ago - which is now $23,050 USD at today's exchange rates. Thank you so much for letting me join up - I can't wait to search this forum for pics and info. Mark