On a Break...For Now

[JFjeld]

I've been quiet for a few months, as I decided to take a break from the Jeep life. Had been mulling over the idea of selling the TJ over the last year and pulled the trigger late December.

I've enjoyed being a Jeep owner for close to 10 years, but it was time to take a break, and the TJ just wasn't getting much use. I'm not done with Jeeps, and will likely pick up an LJ in a few years.

For now, I picked up a 2016 Nissan Frontier SV 4x4. This still gets me on the Forest Service Roads, as I still love getting out in the mountains and plan to continue to camp, wheel a bit, etc. Its also got room for a dirt bike in the back, which I plan to pick up sometime in the summer. It'll be getting a 2" lift and 33s as soon as possible.

I plan to contribute as able, and look forward to seeing all of your progress on your Jeeps. Here's a little peek at the truck; hey, its got a Dana 44:

 

[Chris]

Nice truck! What made you go with that over say a Toyota Tacoma?

I've been wanting to pick up a 2012 Toyota Tacoma TRD (with the extended cab) as a second vehicle for us.

 

[JFjeld]

Nice truck! What made you go with that over say a Toyota Tacoma?

I've been wanting to pick up a 2012 Toyota Tacoma TRD (with the extended cab) as a second vehicle for us.

To be honest, I was leaning toward the 2016 or 2017 Tacoma. They have a great reputation, great resale, and I prefer the aesthetics. But two factors convinced me to go with the Frontier. First, being the Toyota dealer wouldn't return my calls, even after I sold the TJ and had cash in-hand. When I decide on something, I'm ready to deal. I was literally throwing money at them and couldn't get a call back after the test drive, after several days and attempts. Second, being the equivalent Frontier options/packages are about $5K less than the equivalent Tacoma. I know that was true in the case of the two trucks I had driven and was dealing on. The Frontier's V6 is a beast with 260 hp, and 280 ft. lbs of torque.

They're both great vehicles, but the Frontier fit my needs better.

 

[lovemachine]

I like the taco's, but I've been reading horror stories about the frame recall.

 

[JFjeld]

I like the taco's, but I've been reading horror stories about the frame recall.

I'm not aware... do you have any links or info regarding this?

 

[lovemachine]

I'm not aware... do you have any links or info regarding this?

It's been awhile since I read about it. But it looks like it's from 2005's-2010's.

So the later models are safe.

 

[Chris]

It's been awhile since I read about it. But it looks like it's from 2005's-2010's.

So the later models are safe.

What's the deal with the frame though? Does it crack or something?

 

[lovemachine]

What's the deal with the frame though? Does it crack or something?

On the Taco forums, I've seen pictures where the frame literally split in half.

 

[Chris]

On the Taco forums, I've seen pictures where the frame literally split in half.

WOW... Well, I guess if it's a recall and Toyota is willing to fix it for free. But still... Sheesh!