Buy the Toyota Factory Service Manual (FSM) for your truck. Any dealer
can get it for you or you can contact Toyota Publications on the web. My
year had both the FSM and a separate book for detailed electrical
schematics. They are invaluable.

There are Cruiser friendly dealers both on line and local to you that
will give nice discounts on OEM parts. John Hocker of Sierra Toyota is
VERY knowledgeable about Cruisers and knows what parts you need. He's
also a great guy.
mailto:john_hocker@s...
(520) 458-8880

Purchase the Factory Service Manual.

There are several good places online to read about maintenance issues
with Cruisers. Keep in mind that this may seem a bit overwhelming, but
there is a lot of good general info in these places.
http://www.gclcny.com/tech_help.html
Has a list of links to other sites which in turn have links to more
sites. Makes for good reading if you have time.

Purchase the Factory Service Manual.

Most mechanical stuff on your truck was designed to be rebuilt in 3rd
world countries. Do not fear tearing into axles and such, but be well
prepared at the same time. Almost any system can be maintained with
general metric hand tools and a hammer. On occasion you will need
specialty tools. I have been able to find most of them at Sears, so
they're not that special. The FSM will reference many SSTs (special
service tools). I have found that most of these are not needed, however
some make life much easier. Air tools fill my heart with joy, but
require a bit of a startup investment.

Purchase the Factory Service Manual.

What tools to buy can fill a book, but that has already been covered by
other posters. I prefer 6 point sockets and wrenches as opposed to the
more popular 12 point. Over the years I have rounded my share of bolt
heads with the 12s.

Purchase the Factory Service Manual.

Start with basic maintenance like oil and fluid changes and tune ups.
This will get you used to being under the truck and will properly season
your driveway.