13th Nov 2009, 18:13
I had one of these trucks from 87 to 95. It was too small for what I needed when I sold it. I have regretted selling that truck for 15 years. It was very reliable and I would buy another one today if I could find one.
16th Aug 2010, 14:48
I STILL have my 1987 Toyota Pickup (Basic). I bought it new.
177,000 miles on it, original clutch, carb has never been adjusted and passes smog every time. I have no rust as I bought the truck in So Cal, and haven't been too far from here. The paint is getting thin, as I have noticed with each wax job.
I just installed new front rotors and pads, turn the rear drums and install new shoes, installed shocks, and the sway bar linkage bushings look a bit worn.
I have, for the most part, run premium (91) gas in it and used Cast Synthetic 20-50 Wt oil, you can argue, but I know firsthand. When it reaches 30 years old, I shouldn't have to smog it anymore?
17th Aug 2010, 09:16
"Thanks for the honest original review. I will pass on this model."
This post made me laugh... So you were out looking for this exact 1987 Toyota pick-up and now you've changed your mind?
Seriously though, these were the best trucks out there in the 80s. We used them for extremely heavy duty roadwork trucks back in the 80s. They were overloaded constantly and driving through muddy job sites over rough terrain and just plain beaten to death and I can't remember anyone having any problems with them. Even the clutches held up well with the extra weight. They were only 2WD models too.
10th Oct 2010, 18:28
This truck has been in the family a very long time. It has a little over 190,000 miles and has yet to break down. It has been used for everything that we throw at it. I won't get rid of this truck ever. Will go to a brother when I'm done with it, which will probably not happen. Sorry you had such a bad experience with yours, but I sure love mine.
24th Nov 2010, 23:13
I have a 1987 Toyota Pickup, bought it brand new and it only has 158,000 miles on the odometer. Great truck, no major problems.
I have rebuilt the carb once, two brake jobs, water pump and radiator replaced, (Arizona heat). Other than that, just tires and the basics. I change the oil every 2-3 thousand miles.
I am starting to get a lot of compliments on its condition and a lot offers to buy it. I plan on keeping her forever.
If you ever see one in good condition, buy it! They built these trucks to last.
26th Dec 2010, 12:44
I bought a 1987 in August 2010. I am thrilled to death to once again have one like this. I sold a 1985 a few years ago and regretted it since. This one will stay with me until the wheels fall off. My daughter thinks it will be hers when she is able to drive, but I am not sure I will give it up.
16th Feb 2011, 16:27
1988 Toyota 4x4.
I have 350,000 miles on mine and it just keeps kicking. I replaced the head (only because I had a spare and I was tired of a valve guide leak), replaced the brakes routinely and put a new clutch and radiator in it.
Other than that the beast won't quit. I'll keep it until the bottom end goes. I've heard these trucks going over 450,000 miles with less work than I put into mine.
One of the most reliable trucks you can get.
2nd Sep 2009, 07:44
Sorry, but Toyota is not paying anybody for good reviews, check all other sources you want to, Toyota has consistently been very high in reliability for decades.
Just because you got a lemon does not mean that these trucks are all around very reliable machines, go buy a small Chevy S10 or Ford Ranger or Dodge Dakota of the same years and mileage (good luck finding them) and you will see the difference.
20+ years is 20+ years on anything, but Toyota has a higher chance of having more life left than the others.