When it comes to modifying your Toyota Tacoma for enhanced performance, especially the Prerunner model, the upgrades can significantly impact its capabilities. Let’s delve into the specifics based on real-world experience with a Tacoma Prerunner.
Upgrading Tires and Off-Roading
One of the initial and impactful upgrades for any truck, including the Tacoma Prerunner, is tire replacement. Swapping out the stock tires for larger, more aggressive all-terrain tires like 33-inch BFG All-Terrains can dramatically improve off-road traction and capability. These tires offer a substantial improvement over the factory Dunlop ATs, providing better grip on various terrains.
However, with a regular cab Tacoma Prerunner, the experience on rougher terrains might differ slightly compared to heavier double cab models. The lighter regular cab can sometimes feel less planted on stiff shocks when traversing rough fire roads at speeds around 20MPH. This can result in a less comfortable ride compared to heavier trucks, where the weight helps dampen the stiffness. Despite this, the Tacoma Prerunner, especially with upgraded tires, shows commendable climbing ability. For serious off-road enthusiasts, installing a rear locker can further enhance its capability, enabling it to tackle even more challenging terrains.
Towing with the Tacoma Prerunner
The Toyota Tacoma Prerunner is also a capable tow vehicle, particularly when equipped with the right setup. Stock Tacoma bumpers are typically rated for around 3500 lbs of gross trailer weight and a maximum tongue weight of 350 lbs. For heavier towing needs, upgrading to a Class III hitch is essential. A Class III hitch significantly increases towing capacity, often allowing for up to 10,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 1000 lbs tongue weight, depending on the specific hitch and vehicle configuration. This makes towing boats, trailers, and other recreational equipment feasible.
Interestingly, the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine in the Tacoma Prerunner performs surprisingly well when towing. Coupled with heavy-duty 4-piston brake calipers found in the Prerunner model, stopping power is adequate even with a substantial load. A key advantage of the Prerunner is its stiffer suspension setup. While it might feel firmer when unladen, this stiffness becomes a significant asset when towing. The stiffer suspension helps to level the vehicle and provides a smoother, more controlled ride when a trailer is hitched, counteracting the sag that can occur with softer suspensions.
Suspension and Load Capacity Advantages
The stiffer suspension in the Tacoma Prerunner sets it apart from standard Tacomas, especially when it comes to load handling. A stock, standard Tacoma might exhibit significant rear-end sag even with moderate weight in the bed. In contrast, the Prerunner’s suspension is designed to handle heavier loads more effectively. Regular cab Tacoma Prerunners, due to their lighter cab weight, often boast the highest maximum payload capacity across the Tacoma range. Some configurations can handle up to a ton (2005 lbs) of combined cargo and passengers. This makes the Prerunner a practical choice for those who frequently haul heavy loads.
Balancing Comfort and Utility
While the stiff suspension of the Tacoma Prerunner is beneficial for towing and load carrying, it can compromise ride comfort when the truck bed is empty. Some Prerunner owners might find that adding some weight to the bed improves ride quality by dampening the suspension. For a more adaptable solution to ride comfort, especially when transitioning between loaded and unloaded conditions, consider aftermarket adjustable shocks like Rancho RSX 9000 or air adjustable shocks. These allow for on-the-fly adjustments to suspension stiffness, optimizing ride comfort and handling regardless of load.
In conclusion, the Tacoma Prerunner offers a compelling blend of off-road capability and towing performance. Its stiffer suspension, while potentially less plush in daily driving when unladen, proves invaluable for towing and hauling, making it a versatile truck for both recreational and work-related tasks. Upgrades like all-terrain tires and hitch enhancements further unlock its potential, making the Tacoma Prerunner a solid choice for truck enthusiasts needing a capable and adaptable vehicle.
