Gearing up to buy first Tundra, looking for general advice/things to watch out for

Hello all! I getting ready to start the process of buying my first Tundra and am interested in getting some general advice on things to know going into buying, as well as tips on installing aftermarket accessories. I'm currently driving a rebuilt '94 GMC 2500 for my landscape business but would like to upgrade to a Tundra now that I have gotten my business off the ground. I haven't owned a Tundra yet but my family has owned small Toyota trucks in the past and our good 'ol 1995 4Runner(which I landscaped out of for 2 years ) is still going strong at 250k miles so I've got that Toyota love!
Thanks and look forward to talking with everyone!

 

New? Used? Towing with it?

 

Also, welcome to the forum. Lots of good info here.

 

Welcome from TN!

First off, I'm not sure how big your trailer is but, I'd check the capabilities of your truck, as much as I hate to admit it, tundras can't pull what a 2500 can. If it's a fifth wheel, forget it.

As for aftermarket stuff, if a landscaper came rolling up in a tundra with a nice 3/1 lift, decent at/mt tires (probably AT since they last a bit longer) and solid wheels (as long as they're not the stock steelies) Firestone airbags for keeping your truck level when towing and a few interior items (Kagu or husky mats for mud and grass, led interior lights, seat covers cause I know you'll be sweating, and whatever else blows your skirt up) you'd have my business forever! LOL

Read up on the brand you buy from, ask around (this forum is a great source of info and shooting the shit) and try to install as much of your mods yourself as possible to save unecessary $$$ spent. Most of us have installed our own lifts with the help of a good buddy or family member at the cost of a sixer and lunch!

Enjoy brother!!

 

The only thing to look out for is jealousy from non-Tundra owners, other than that it's a solid truck

 

Get a 4x4
Crew max
5.7
Inferno is the best Tundra

 

I totally agree on the 5.7 and the 4x4. The 5.7 is worth it for the extra coolers and towing package alone.
I am a HUGE double cab proponent... But to each their own.

 

Ditto on the 5.7. 4x4 is user preference though, but better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. (I need it but don't have it FYI) LOL

 

For a work truck, I think Line-X is a must. The bed-sides are pretty tall, so don't go crazy with a lift or you'll be a cussin' when you want to move tools in and out. Make sure you either get one with, or add after the fact, the cargo management rails. I think there's a mod hereabouts that shows how to add cargo rails on the cheap.

The DC has a 6.5' bed, whereas the CM has a 5.5' bed, so factor that into your decision.

 

Sage advice from the guys above, 5.7 and 4x4 for the sake of resale value if nothing else. But, as a landscaper, those options really make sense. Contractors almost always, in my area at least, choose white... aka hide-all / resale white.
If you're buying new, go prepared. Search the internet and find the lowest price and payment for the exact truck you want. Then you can call a dealer in your area and tell 'em that's what you're willing to pay. Be sure to check for sales and incentives. Check out reviews on your local dealer too.... Some dealers are pretty bad...to put it mildly.
The other options are for you to decide on.

 

Hey everyone thanks for all the advice and responses! In regards to the questions, I had in mind new (all black everything eventually is the goal), 5.7 4x4 TRD Pro 6.5 ft bed. As far as hauling I dont have a trailer currently but I was planning on getting one once I get my new truck since I won't want to scratch the baby! At the moment I just use the 8ft bed of my GMC for hauling tools, brush, soil/mulch, gravel etc. I'm looking for something I won't outgrow too quickly but also don't think I quite need a full size diesel at this point. That being said I'm not opposed to going the diesel route, however I've got Toyota loyalty and I love the way the Tundras look. Thanks again for the advice and looking forward to your responses!