TRD offroad or aftermarket?

#1 05-06-2005, 10:08 PM

Hi - Im looking at 05 Tacomas right now and I am wondering what the opinions are here of the TRD off-road package vs. going aftermarket. Thanks for any insight.

#2 05-07-2005, 08:15 AM

-XOC-,
Please do not quote me on this one, but I believe the only real difference in the TRD trucks is: E-Locker in the rear, Bilstien shocks, small fender flares, and neat TRD stickers on the bed which add 5+ horses(j/k). Other than that, I don't think there is too much more if anything. Hope it helped.

-TacoGrande

wisctaco04 · #3 05-07-2005, 10:01 AM

[img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/goodpost.gif[/img]
The electric locker sure is nice from the factory. However, if you anticipate going with a locker in the front you may want the non-TRD package and do an ARB front and rear since you will use onboard air and can have 2 switches side by side for the lockers. If you are going to lift it you will lose the Bilsteins most likely and it would be a waste just to get it for that. The 5 Hp stickers are pretty cool but you can always buy those aftermarket. Keep in mind it also takes some time for developers to design products since there are some changes compared to previous years. You have a lot to weigh in on but raised a good question. If I had my choice I would have went non-TRD since I lost half the package with my lift and now want a front locker.

#4 05-07-2005, 11:17 PM

ok this is excellent feedback - thanks - and keep it coming if anyone else has any experience/opinions.

FWIW I'm also looking at Frontiers ... anyone wanna tell me if it would be a mistake to go in that direction? [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

brayboy · #5 05-07-2005, 11:35 PM

I've got Wisc's back on all he said. If you go TRD or non-TRD, you'll want to make the suspension changes. The after-market is starting to come out pretty strong lately on apps for the new Taco's. Sway-Away has some coil-overs for them now & I'm sure Donahoe will be out soon. I'll have to say the e-locker is the best thing from the TRD package. I don't know much about the Nissans, but they usually cost less and I have heard good things about their new Nismo pkg. Bray [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/40BEER.gif[/img]

dezert_rida · #6 05-08-2005, 09:01 PM

The E locker is the only reason to get the TRD package in my opinion. You can install much better coilovers and rear shocks than what comes from the factory. Unless the 05s come with BFG ATs rather than Rugged trails, those are a waste as well.

Nissan is junk, flat out. There is nothing good about them.You get an inferior product, with a warranty they dont stand behind.

#7 05-29-2005, 11:29 AM

Whats the difference in price? In Canada theres about a $4800 cnd price difference from the base 4x4 access cab to the TRD access cab. Im going with the TRD. Still 1 month till it gets here. I think it just depends on how much you plan on doing to youre new truck. I wouldnt waste my money on the TRD just to take out most of the extras I got in it. As for the nissan. I checked those out too and found there extra hp wasnt noticable and in my oppinion the truck doesnt look near as cool as the tacoma though ive never much liked nissan styling.