hello all-

I just picked up a '96 4x4 t100 with a '99 engine. The chassis has 262K on it, while the engine is (I was told) closing on 120K. I have a few newbie questions:

1. What's the timing belt interval on the 3.4?
2. The truck has TRD stickers, but I think it's a repaint. How can I tell if it's really the TRD package? What kind of goodies does the TRD package include?
3. How can I tell if the steering shaft recall has been done?
4. Other than the clutch pedal mount, what problems can I proactively address? My pedal bracket looks pretty beefy, and no sign of cracks - perhaps it was done?

I know it's high mileage, and I paid $5800 for the truck w/camper top. The truck is straight, has no rust, goes down the road quietly and in a straight line. So far I think I got a really good deal when late-model (1999+) Tacomas are still $12-18K around here.

Any other good advice or opinions are welcome. I'm new to this forum, but a member of several others, including SHOForum.com and WoodsRacer.com. I do like my toys...

I can only help with two of the four questions.

Timing belt intervals are 90k.

For the steering, go to the dealer-service counter with your VIN; they should be able to tell you if it has been done or not on their database.

Woodsracer infrequent poster, here.

The timing belt interval is actually 60K miles on the 3.4L engine. Water pump replacement is recommended every other belt (ie every 120K miles).