Upgrading 2004 Tacoma truck

[Adi]

Greetings, seeking advice from those with more unbiased knowledge and experience. Have learned much from this website/forum and was my first go-to for advice.

I have a 2004 extracab Tacoma + 2017 Fleet 4 Wheel camper installed last year. Owing to new recreation toys (2 new snowmobiles and trailer), I was considering upgrading the truck from a 6 to 8 cylinder engine to facilitate larger towing capacity. I’ve had a great experience with my Tacoma and considering a Tundra. I leave my camper on year-round and have only short distance town driving needs.

1) Will my Fleet FWC fit on a 2018 TUndra?

2) Is the Tundra the right choice for my towing needs?

3) Any other truck to consider?

THanks in advance for ya’lls time, ideas, recommendation.

 

[knoxswift]

I have the 2nd Gen Tacoma, no problems towing 2 motorcycles with an Eagle FWC. I did upgrade to 4.10 gears.

 

[DavidGraves]

Howdy

If you are content with your smaller sized camper you may not need a Tundra....whose bed and carrying capacity are more closely suited to the larger Hawk camper.

I have a 97 T100 and bought a new 2016 Tacoma...the newer truck is a bit of a disappointment versus the older one.

David Graves

 

[Porkface]

I have a 2004 Tundra V8 (4.7L) with a 2015 Fleet. I've towed two 4 wheelers on an aluminum trailer without problems but the truck definitely slows down going up long hills. The 5.7L V8 on the new Tundras should have plenty of power even though snowmachines are a little heavier than (my) 4 wheelers.

You would probably have to build a platform for the fleet to set on in the back of a new Tundra. Bed sides and bed to top of cab height are higher than the older gen. Tundras.

Also recommend you look closely at the payload capacity of the new Tundras. If memory serves, payload is around 1400 pounds, about the same as my 2004 Tundra and your Taco.