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View Full Version : 97 Taco D-Cab swap update

NorcalVP
02-17-2006, 11:16 AM
I posted last July the beginning of my D-cab swap on my 97 Taco Extra Cab. I got it back from the local high school last week. They actually did a pretty good job on the paint, It's not perfect, but then again I'll probably thrash it in the next few years... Still need to make some new sliders and a front winch bumper.

So I started with this
http://www.norcalttora.com/~steve/photos/Cab%20Swap/small%20pics/IMG_1325.JPG
and this
http://www.norcalttora.com/~steve/photos/Cab%20Swap/small%20pics/IMG_1408.JPG

The day of the swap
http://www.norcalttora.com/~steve/photos/Cab%20Swap/small%20pics/DSC02081.JPG

Almost there...

http://norcalttora.com/~steve/photos/October%2005/IMG_1981.JPG
http://norcalttora.com/~steve/photos/October%2005/IMG_1982.JPG


Done...

http://norcalttora.com/~steve/photos/Cab%20Swap/Afterpaint1.jpg
http://norcalttora.com/~steve/photos/Cab%20Swap/Afterpaint2.jpg
http://norcalttora.com/~steve/photos/Cab%20Swap/Afterpaint3.jpg


Overall i couldn't be happier with the results. The high school actually did a pretty bang up job, and if you can live without your vehicle for a few months, I'd highly recommend them. For some reason In the pic the front door looks like a slightly different color than the rear door, but it doesn't look that way in real life. I can't wait to get it all back together and actually start wheeling again.

It's pretty unique, which is what I wanted. The only 97 Double Cab Tacoma 5 speed, SAS'd, Supercharged, crawlered, like it in the world.

Steve
ErikB
02-17-2006, 12:15 PM
I'm curious where you found the totalled D-cab and how much you paid?

I'd like to upgrade to something newer someday and that could be a good way to go...
NorcalVP
02-17-2006, 12:28 PM
I'm curious where you found the totalled D-cab and how much you paid?

I'd like to upgrade to something newer someday and that could be a good way to go...


I got it through a Co-Part Insurance auction through a broker. I paid $7200 for the truck, and paid the broker $450 to buy it for me. The truck is an 04 and only had 800 miles on it. After I sold off all the parts I didn't need, and replaced the damaged door and fender, then got it painted by the local high school I ended up paying about 4K total for the swap.

But now that I have two kids, I needed the extra room. I can't wait till they are a little older and I can take them wheeling with me.

Steve
Kyron
02-17-2006, 12:31 PM
So now its registered as an 04?
Westy
02-17-2006, 12:57 PM
If he kept his original frame, which I am assuming then it is probably still registered as his 97 truck, VIN#s are usually enscribed on the front passenger side of the frame, at least its like that on my 94.
NorcalVP
02-17-2006, 01:26 PM
So now its registered as an 04?


According to CHP it will be registered under my original 97 VIN, I still have to finish putting the interior together and track down some electrical bugs, then it's off to CHP to get verified and blue stickered...

Steve
tj40ounce
02-17-2006, 01:30 PM
badass....
budr
02-17-2006, 01:57 PM
VERY cool.
I keep thinking someday I may do the same...
Bud
NY_crawler
02-17-2006, 02:19 PM
Wow that's a nice truck! I would like to go to a 4runner or a D-cab someday myself. I really like the uniquness of the D-cab though cause they are less common then the 4runners and have a small bed.
TroyToy
02-17-2006, 02:45 PM
nice rig

the sealed beam front end 95-96 on the 01 up body really makes that
unique too !!
NorcalVP
02-17-2006, 04:58 PM
nice rig

the sealed beam front end 95-96 on the 01 up body really makes that
unique too !!


That's my favorite part. Not many people will ever notice that it's not quite right. They'll never know that the D-cab was never offered in either the first or second Gen Tacos. The people who notice the difference are the ones I'd enjoy talking to

Now If I could only get some better headlights.. Maybe the Roundeyes Sealed beam lights? These stockers don't really put out alot of light. Especially when compared to my wife's van (06 Odyssey), Those headlights kick ass...

Steve
fprbrooks
02-17-2006, 05:34 PM
WOW!!!!!! Thats all I have to say about that.:cool2:
NorcalVP
02-18-2006, 11:31 AM
Thanks!
PIG
02-18-2006, 11:40 AM
Dude, do you still have the old bed....?
NorcalVP
02-18-2006, 12:04 PM
I still have it, but I've made it into a trailer.... I might be persuaded to trade for a different bed that's roughly the same size.

Steve
PIG
02-18-2006, 01:21 PM
I still have it, but I've made it into a trailer.... I might be persuaded to trade for a different bed that's roughly the same size.

Steve

Check your PM's.

EDIT: Nice job on the swap. Tacos are rad. We are going to be working on some new Taco parts here in the near future.
NorcalVP
02-18-2006, 05:17 PM
Replied...

Thanks it's been about a year in the making, but it's worth it!
arloey
02-16-2008, 07:31 PM
Your wont be the only 4door '97 for long. I'm doing the same thing right now. thoughts/plans of this have been in the works for about two years now.

You did an awsome job, looks great. I hope mine turns out as good.

Here's my swap thread:
http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=658167

Let me know if you have any advise.
NorcalVP
02-16-2008, 10:52 PM
Your wont be the only 4door '97 for long. I'm doing the same thing right now. thoughts/plans of this have been in the works for about two years now.

You did an awsome job, looks great. I hope mine turns out as good.

Here's my swap thread:
http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=658167

Let me know if you have any advise.

Good Luck!!! :D I posted my reply in your thread
johnnytwelvepack
02-24-2008, 02:59 AM
NICE maybe i will see that someday in the valley...
NorcalVP
02-24-2008, 11:27 AM
NICE maybe i will see that someday in the valley...

Hopefully someday it'll leave my garage under it's own power... :D it sure seems like a never ending project, It's currently getting a custom width D44, and some major suspension work to make it a bit more road friendly (still leaf sprung) I doubt that it'll make it out of the garage before the summer heat, so I'm hoping that it'll be ready for wheeling season next fall.
arloey
03-07-2008, 10:24 AM
What fuel tank did you use the 97 or the 04's the size looks different will the 97 tank work under the body?
Booger Weldz
03-07-2008, 10:44 AM
im jealous of your extra doors for sure! truck looks great! how much does a camper shell like that cost?
NorcalVP
03-07-2008, 10:32 PM
What fuel tank did you use the 97 or the 04's the size looks different will the 97 tank work under the body?



I ended up using the '04 tank. I wanted the Gas light, and my 97 tank had some bumps and bruises. not to mention I wanted to keep the 04 EVAP controls. I think they are physically the same.
NorcalVP
03-07-2008, 10:33 PM
im jealous of your extra doors for sure! truck looks great! how much does a camper shell like that cost?

I bought it used from a guy on the TTORA board for $450. I think new they are 1100-1500ish... I sure like it. Can't wait to get it out wheeling again. One of these days I may gank some of your designs. I love how low you truck is.... Someday.... :D

Steve