The full story behind the dirtiest Tacoma and how much did it cost?

Check out Instagram ‪@mikes4x4garage‬ !

[@mikes4x4garage]

Hey guys, sorry about the audio quality from the wind, I’ll be investing in a mic soon! Also, what do you think the past owner did with the truck before I bought it?

[@enharris54]

Goes without saying I think that drugs and drug money were involved

[@Verdant02]

Drug runner to and from Mexico. Only built it like that out of necessity

[@FirstnameLastname-ni9uh]

@@Verdant02 how do they cross borders I thought there's a fence or something to stop from this happening ? It does make sense why he had the beefed up suspension tho.

[@jsndweeb7653]

he was on the run😂😂

[@spyman218]

Thing was for sure a grow dozer... plus other shenanigans. Good to see ya back Mike!

[@ronniewarren8216]

Id explore maybe building another messed up truck from Facebook market place. I think you built a decent audience here on KZbin, take advantage of it.

[@bubbashorts5049]

I say keep finding stuff on marketplace and just try to slip it

[@Tactical_Pterodactyl_Knives]

Couldn't agree more. Use the momentum and build your channel into a money making part time job or more

[@philiplapuz451]

I agree with this, the tacoma series is how I found your channel and I have enjoyed every episode.

[@DeaknQuinn]

$25k is a good deal, no doubt. finally some closure, I have always wondered how the hell that truck get into such horrific shape. you brought it back to life. keep it!

[@cristianquintero8790]

Drug running probably

[@jasontodd1141]

@@cristianquintero8790 unfortunately you’d be surprised how many people genuinely just don’t do vehicle maintenance. It’s insane, many people believe things like “lifetime” transmission fluid means their entire life smh.

[@cristianquintero8790]

@@jasontodd1141 lmao 🤣

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thanks Christopher!

[@tanner8355]

Based on the truck’s condition, modifications, mileage and the area you bought it from it was probably (definitely) running drugs. Cool history honestly, adds to the character of the truck. As everyone else said I think your personality, “why not” attitude and ingenuity will carry you further than you think as far as maintaining an audience. But in terms of attracting a bigger audience I really think you have something here working on unique basket case vehicles. If you think about it you basically gained ~25k subs because of this truck’s unique story (or lack thereof) and shockingly bad condition. The salvage rebuild genre has gotten super saturated over the years but I think this is a fresh angle at that which has potential. Finding something cool, in bad condition with a unique story and bringing it back to life and making it something capable is a lot more entertaining to me than buying a stock wrecked car from a salvage yard and rebuilding it to factory spec. Maybe buy something from a police auction next? I feel like Cali has no shortage of cool cars in bad condition with a unique history so you have plenty of opportunity in that sense. Also gives you the opportunity to make content around the unique history of the vehicle too when it’s possible or reasonable (although I get not wanting to accuse the PO of this truck of anything in this case) As far as this truck goes I think you’ve done all you can with it content wise and you can almost definitely get back all the money you put into it back by selling it (maybe even more if you swap out that rear driver door). Free’s up the cash to start another project too.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Tanner, Thank you. I agree with what you say, the salvage rebuild videos have blown up lately. Taking something from bad to good is satisfying to watch. I watch them all the time myself. I appreciate all of the kind words!

[@xarch7208]

I was gonna say it was definitely a cartel truck. 100%

[@leadpilled5567]

Any holes in the bed for mounting a m240. Would be way cool if it was a cartel technical

[@tanner8355]

@@xarch7208 Assuming he got it out of NorCal it wouldn’t be a cartel truck. I was thinking more along the lines of running drugs (probably the devil’s lettuce) out of Humblodt County. They’re known for driving modified vehicles to run their drugs.

[@RoStAr24TeLeVisIoN]

Just a guy witg money that wheels the fuck out of his trucks that all he was. He actually used his shit

[@ebrown1221]

I've been watching this build since the winter and I loved watching the progress as well as this recap. Whatever you do with the channel moving forward, I'm excited to watch. I enjoy your videos and appreciate the content you put out. $25k for that truck and the fun you had. I think it's totally worth it.

[@shelbysnake5003]

Enjoy your build for a little, sell it , and profit from it then get another project and repeat. I think this is one of the most interesting and favorite builds here on youtube, first saw it on my reccomendations the day you brought it home and i have not missed any videos on it. Youve put a massive amount of work into it i really enjoyed watching every video, your channel will only grow with the amount of passion you have !

[@UltimateToolReviews]

Great build! Been following for awhile, sounds like all of the clues you found based on the history of this truck it was used for running some not so legal items, likely off-road and in a hurry.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Agreed!

[@dgreen8388]

I'd love to see another build from the Marketplace. You really rescued this Taco. Love the content and I really think you could make this a pretty successful KZbin channel. Your personality and ability fit right into that sweet spot. People will watch.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you Drew! I’ll be on the lookout for one 👍🏻

[@mingovazquez704]

Agreed with Drew Green subscribed!!!

[@evanhaglund7464]

Loving all the positive comments. I enjoyed watching this series. I would say 25k was a good price but the labor is where you loose. You learned a lot though and had a great time along rhe way. Maybe start filming wheeling trips and small mod videos like Wayalife. Eventually you will find a deal on another project and do this all again.

[@devildoc6749]

I remember looking at the first video of bringing the truck back home and here we are today, an awesome achievement. Hats off to your dedication and enthusiasm. There was another guy who bought a Tacoma which was in a wreck and now looks amazing. It's finding those projects that inspire you to bring them to life. Appreciate the update and the outcome. Congrats !!

[@baxtercopeland3092]

Definitely do more builds like this loved seeing it go from trash to treasure

[@Humboldt710]

You did a great job getting the Taco back on the road! I've seen too many Tacoma's up here in Humboldt get destroyed in the same way running up and down hills loaded with soil, water or diesel. Cheers for rescuing one.

[@semperliberi]

This was an awesome journey to watch. You did an incredible job documenting everything for us, and we appreciate it. Hats off for all your resourcefulness. Love the DIY attitude.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you!!

[@RagnarLothbrok2222]

Loved following the series man! Great restoration 🙌🏻

[@torgersen44]

Been here near the beginning. I was always excited to see updates on this truck. Well done man, thing looks good!

[@LuisSanchez-dw7mt]

I saw your process from first to last. It was awesome and was always eager to see the next video. Definitely do another build.

[@RobertSmith-cc5kk]

THANK YOU. Loved the journey. Learned alot about how my toyota is put together even though you had alot of creative things going on. Would love to have you your skills mechanically ,awesome fun to watch. Thanks for the fun ride. Toyota is a beautiful truck . I love mine and seeing you bring it back from the scrap heap was impressive. Again thanks . Looking forward to your next projed while l have a beer.

[@jonathoncook8367]

This was one of my favorite builds to watch this year. Hella good job man!

[@gabethorneabcdefghik]

Dude! Following from the start. This is such a bad ass build. You said it perfectly, totally worth it. Find a challenge and make something great of it. Wrenching on trucks, drinking beers with your buddies, creating memories. This thing is a memorable work of art. Love it. Rare to see such a sick access cab manual 4x4. Love it!

[@hostilityy]

finally another video! I enjoy watching all of them

[@feindshadow123]

Loved watching the build videos! You have an awesome mind and serious skills, thanks for letting all of us be apart of this journey. I know how much time you put into sharing all of this with us folks on KZbin! Keep it up!

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you for watching!

[@jasonfillmore2991]

Awesome job bud and great content through out this project cheers bud 🍻🍻

[@mikeypotts4732]

Very cool thanks for sharing! I found you on the first Tacoma video. Came together nicely!

[@mistermatsuda]

I dig that truck! Love that you and your buddies did all the work to get to where it is today. You must have learned a lot and had some good times to share with your friends.

[@freakindummy1321]

Loved the process of the build and the character of the truck. Thank you for the journey through KZbin

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you for watching 👍🏻

[@jeffkasken3882]

Keep the Tacoma !!! Been following since the beginning, awesome adventure ! Keep checking out Facebook for your next project, really enjoyed watching all your videos. Keep up the good work. But, never, ever, sell the Tacoma ! Tacoma World needs you also ! Thanks for letting everyone see what you went through on this project.

[@andrewdryden2143]

I just hardcore binged this channel and can honestly say it's amazing and has so much potential. I'd slowly keep building the Tacoma as I feel it's the thing that really blew the channel up (i also own a 3rd gen so that's what I love watching haha). Ideas for the future would be roof/bed racks, bed drawers, and if you're crazy strait axel swap it. Definitely look for more deals and rebuilds. Can't wait for the future content!

[@pewbangpew8109]

Been watching for a while dude really appreciate the back story and wrap up once the build was finished. Can’t wait for the next one 💪🏼

[@TannerFarrand]

Woooooo!!! Another video! Thanks Mike!

[@donolson8328]

Hi Mike, l have watched the build since the beginning, great job with all the blood sweat and tears you have in this Tacoma I would say keep it. There are so many Tacoma owners like me out there we can't wait to see your next project. You can go older or newer we will be watching. Just keep it a tacoma channel and you will prosper.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thanks for watching Don!

[@robertstevens4000]

Thank for the video Mike, and the follow up on The Taco! Shes a beast! Have you thought of building out a camper shell for an overlanding setup? I know its been done, and theres plenty of vids on youtube for that. Anyhow, thanks for the very enjoyable vids!!

[@jxd1138]

25k is a steal for that truck! You've done a wonderful job. I would suggest selling the Taco and starting a new project! This channel will grow!

[@JB50713]

Glad to see you're back!! It's all about the adventure not the money you spent. Like you said, good times with buddies. ✌🏼

[@mikes4x4garage]

For sure!

[@derekcreager8140]

Hey Mike, I really don’t subscribe to a lot of KZbin channels, but I really enjoy your content. I happened upon your videos on the Toyota Tacoma subreddit early on in your Tacoma build process and I have been hooked ever since. You have a great presence in your videos and I think you should make a go at trying to keep the channel alive. I enjoyed your build videos, but I also really enjoyed your adventure and wheeling videos too. Hopefully you will be able to make your channel work with everything else you have going on. I was really happy to see an update video. My personal opinion, find another vehicle to fix up or build out and then take it on some wheeling/camping adventures.

[@3xperience]

Just found your channel and I appreciate what you are doing here man. Nice work.

[@intricatexploration]

Hey man, loved your vids. Could see you doing random missions camping, fishing and exploring similar to Mav. You've got the personality for good content man. Also I laughed pretty hard at your mates antics during the build. Looking forward to seeing some future vids

[@jaydee2111]

Awesome man can’t wait to see this channel grow your a bad ass dude 🤙🏻😎

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you jay!

[@Kjack2023]

Watched from the beginning, love Tacoma’s, and absolutely admire how you rebuilt this. Thanks for sharing!

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you for watching!

[@Dianaa]

Need more videos Mike! I know nothing about cars, but your content is so good I’ve seen every video on this series.

[@Supercheeze0123]

Mike, you're a hell of a fabricator! Whatever project you end up working on, I'm definitely watching. It would be awesome to see you work on an older rig!

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you Alec!

[@wildgamerecipes6353]

Thanks for sharing the buy story on the truck. Watched the whole series and it was pretty sweet what a couple guys could do in their spare time. I really like how the Tacoma is and hope you keep it. I think it would be cool if you could buy another vehicle to fix up and resell.

[@Thatdudeinred]

Super motivating , and I love ever moment of ur build

[@jsndweeb7653]

glad to see you back making videos, put a smile on my face :) keep up the great work homie

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thanks friend!

[@patrickhale2270]

I think you did a great job on a truck that was really hammered. The amount of time and effort and not to mention patience- bravo! That is a sharp Tacoma, love it.

[@DeuceDeuceBravo]

Been following this build from the beginning and it's been an awesome ride. You should be proud of this one. I would have sold the supercharger to recoup some cost, but I'm sure it's a nice upgrade.

[@timauvebserie9591]

IVE BEEN HERE SINCE DAY 1 , I WAS WONDERING WHEN UD MAKE A NEW VIDEO

[@van_dutch]

Thanks for the back story, I caught on in the very beginning, but didn't know how you got your hands on it. Cool story, more content! I don't wrench like you, but I dig watching the story on bringing cars \ trucks back to life. Keep it up!

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you!

[@ann-mariekitson9554]

Mike love the recap. I think it’s time for another project 😊✅✅

[@jasonmolihan61]

I watched all the videos on this truck, and you did an amazing job bring this taco back to life.

[@DrewPeabawls]

I’ve really enjoyed watching your videos and inspires me to do more diy stuff on my Tacoma. I say do another build! I’ll keep watching!

[@MontanaRealtyCompany934]

Its been awesome following your build. Whatever you decide to do I just hope you keep uploading videos ✌️

[@mikes4x4garage]

thank you for watching!

[@labtop2350]

Best Tacoma build series I’ve seen. So happy to have stumbled on your videos of this. Find another junkier… your ability to be creative, budget friendly and genuine fun makes your content solid.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Hey thanks really kind! I appreciate it 👍🏻

[@chinch4584]

Enjoyed the build. I have watched since the beginning. I liked to see you get a mid 90s taco or Ranger and turn it into a capable wheeler using mostly Facebook marketplace or junkyard parts. Keep the costs as low as possible but still trail ready. Good Job.

[@mikes4x4garage]

A junkyard build has been something I’ve wanted to do, maybe something for gambler 500!

[@cashmiller2999]

Bro been watching since the beginning! You got a pretty sick ride with an even better story. Totally worth it

[@dadbod4life]

This has been a wild story from the start. I enjoyed watching its progress. I love the truck.

[@dekk0480]

Loved following along with the build- you sharing costs, mistakes, and doing it in your home garage! Makes me feel like I could do it too! You should sell it for profit and find your next project!

[@mikes4x4garage]

You absolutely can, just learn along the way like I do!

[@jonnybravo9]

Speaking as a guy with about 10k into a 3.4 swapped 2nd gen 4runner + many hrs of labor, I would say your sticker price is pretty dang great for what you wound up with! If you start another project I will continue watching, was pretty awesome to see this one evolve

[@jacksprrow]

I LOVE THIS CHANNEL MIKE!!! please do more junker to beauty fix ups!

[@mikes4x4garage]

🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@TheMALIA9]

This was such a dope series, it’s always nice seeing Toyota content

[@darioalcantar3281]

Hey Mike, great content with this project. I don’t have much knowledge with anything mechanical or fabricating but you made it easy to follow and understand what was being done. Next project Sticking with Toyota: 3rd gen 4runner

[@RC-zo3qv]

Watched the whole process! Great videos! I would like to see you do another one of these videos with a different vehicle. Keep the videos coming!! God bless

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you!

[@sdksniper]

Been following since the begininng, glad to see you over 23k subs. I think 25k is still a great deal. I bought a 2018 sport for 38k... but it had a lot of extras and low mileage. The fact you replaced the engine I feel 25k is worth it.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Matt, you’ve been an OG fan! Thanks for the support!

[@AaronLives34]

What a story. Unfathomable neglect yet still put it on 37s with a 6" lift and lockers. Headscratcher unless you consider it was a drug mule desert runner. I don't know what else makes sense. So glad you found it and did er right. One of my favorite channels. Dude's attitude is everything.

[@mariomarin1552]

Hands down some of the best real build content I’ve seen.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you Mario!

[@vincewitda8six]

25k total is awesome brotha, glad the truck is in your hands. What ever you decide to do next ill be sure to watch.

[@mChav34]

you did a great job with the truck. looks amazing. the hard work shows

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you Matthew!

[@vnegron3]

Amazing revival/build! Loved watching truck's progress and your creativity/ingenuity. I'd love to see more adventures, either in this truck or another humdinger that you bring back from the dead! What if you drove the Tacoma to a fan's house and helped them with their vehicle?? 🤔 Keep the awesome content coming! And yes, $25K is a HELL of a deal for your truck, even with all the labor! 😉👍

[@mikes4x4garage]

Oh that’s a cool idea!

[@josephcastrichini9295]

Amazing vids. Rebuild another, keep the content going, I can see you being a top KZbinr👍🏼

[@IsraelGonzalez-dt6hy]

Very worthy what you did to this truck! Feel proud yourself because you did an awesome work!

[@johng2762]

Been watching this since the beginning and it’s definitely been a fun build to watch.

[@leadpilled5567]

Best part about this build was its something any guy could do at home. You did it without a hoist and super expensive welder and a snap on box that cost more than a new taco. Loved that you used stuff from harbor freight and didn’t do it in fully equipped garage. Reminded me a lot of my friends and I back in high school doing car projects. You should raptor line it. Could do it for $500-600 and a long weekend and it would look amazing

[@mikes4x4garage]

Yeah we do it cheap around here! Thanks for watching !!!

[@lekitesurfeur]

I love rebuild trucks videos on KZbin that I can relate to. Thanks for saving this Tacoma. Beautiful truck and I am now a subscriber and it would be great if you can keep going some more Facebook market projects 🤙 keep up the great work man.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you thankyou!

[@mandexter956]

MIKE IS BACK!!!!!!!! Hold up, let me get a beer!! lol. Amazing build Brotha!🤙🤙🤙

[@mikes4x4garage]

Get the brewski! 🍺

[@96kylar]

Great job boss. Great job. I’m waiting for another project from you.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you!

[@michaelkehoe5014]

First off great video! I’d like to see you buy a full size truck, for pulling your 4x4’s around and (hammers) maybe make the taco and or Jeep into a buggy?? Also think a SAS would be a great challenge for you! I know it’s not a new idea or anything but I think you would be thorough, ie. cost break down, parts, tools, materials, and of course video documentary! Whatever you do have fun and keep it up! Love you brother!

[@NuclearSandwich7]

Might be kind of a rough niche to continue, but as others have suggested, If you are able to find other methed out vehicles to fix up, we will keep watching and the channel will grow. Sell the truck if you want, or keep it. 25 grand isn’t all that bad in the grand scheme of things, and it’s kinda nice that it’s already beat a little so you can actually use it to it’s fullest without feeling to bad.

[@mikes4x4garage]

That’s true, don’t need to worry about the paint at this point!

[@DeluxeFFA]

mike I love all of your content so would be happy with what ever but another project sounds good and also building that up more

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you!

[@__Mr.P]

This Taco made me subscribe to your channel. I appreciate the closer haha always wondered about it.

[@GilBlock]

Yeah another build would be awesome. Keep growing the channel and hopefully the channel will pay for the truck itself. Should create a way so we the viewers can donate too. Love the content and would be happy to support more of it.

[@jimbo45cal]

Your content is good. I’m not even a car guy but love your Taco build series. I hope you continue to make videos.

[@mikes4x4garage]

I will!

[@josiahharper6453]

I have really enjoyed your content and following along- get another project!

[@scottwood4655]

Keep wrenching on project cars! I like learning bit by bit and you aren't afraid to show the whole process.

[@mikes4x4garage]

I like to show the good and the bad, thank you for watching it all!

[@woweeoi11]

Hey Mike enjoyed the build series you had with the taco. I think in terms of the channel people enjoy watching any kind of build series, that being said do what makes you happy brother.

[@mikes4x4garage]

👍🏻👍🏻 I appreciate it!

[@Benephon]

I loved following this journey. Your problem solving is incredible to watch and you're really funny and entertaining. Sell that taco and pick up another project and show the people!

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thanks Ben! Good idea 👍🏻

[@Lkom24]

Dope truck and cool story i subbed

[@bigsmoke279]

I remember watching you build this. Great build!

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank ya!

[@ethanlaursen9187]

Great video dude

[@brandonpfeifle7057]

25K is a steal, keep that truck for sure, it's bada$$ and watching you turn it into what it is now was unbelievable. There really is something therapeutic about this trucks journey and how you documented it. You never got discouraged at all of the roadblocks and stayed positive. The channel should be about you unearthing more dirt devil trucks like this and flipping them. Thanks for answering all these questions because, yes, we were wondering..

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thanks Brandon!

[@samfromalbuquerque7235]

You better make more videos. Really enjoy them. 👍

[@Notafordguy]

Hey man I like your content you should make weekly vids of anything you’re working on. I think your personality is worth much more than the projects you’re working on. Keep up the good work!

[@mikes4x4garage]

Thank you! I’m trying to up the videos here!

[@Carterfarming]

Hey mike. Been watching since video one. Please keep posting a building cool rigs

[@Fluoride556]

Idk man but keep making content this series was awesome!

[@MJ_Bass]

Great video series man! I love the relatable content, vs the over the top normal youtube car stuff. I say sell that thing, make a decent profit, and find another clapped out project with potential.

[@mikes4x4garage]

Good move, I think that could happen!

[@pulchritudinouslasagna7314]

What a great success story!! That is a lot of work, but 25 for a 2018 with a new engine is a great deal! Any Taco owner would appreciate watching this series. As did I.

[@tylerwendel6741]

25 is a great price, I’d love to see more of the same stuff, I remember finding the Chanel due to the Tacoma and just watching you wrench on it with your friends was great to watch

[@mikes4x4garage]

It’s been fun!

[@brockpeterson9856]

This is an awesome story. There was a recall on on the master cylinder awhile back at least for the 2018's , he obviously never got the recall taken care of...great job restoring it. you've made a tremendous overhaul on that truck. i paid 33k for mine new from the dealer plus all the mods. I'm a bit jealous. These are fun off-roaders. unless you're itching to find another project vehicle, keep this one.

[@Aguilarg93]

Nice build! 👍

[@letsgo579]

Sell it and bring us along for the next build!!! You have us intrigued!!!

[@Jammer0825]

I really enjoy your approach to the Tacoma! “Hey why not”. I love the Tacoma, but you shout sell for $30k and get a new shit box the work on!! You have motivated this 60 year old with a new taco to build my own rock sliders!! Ps I think that dude was running drugs! Or making meth.

[@mikes4x4garage]

That’s a good point! And good to hear! Get out there and do it!

[@xijinpooh8534]

New to the channel and your Tacoma videos are cool . Keep it up 👍🔥

[@mikes4x4garage]

Welcome!

[@xijinpooh8534]

@@mikes4x4garage [phone] social credit points