On classic Toyota trucks, model year is not always enough to choose the correct part. Toyota and aftermarket catalogs sometimes split fitment by production month, so a 1987 or 1991 vehicle may need different parts depending on when it was actually built.
Where to Find the Build Date
On a U.S.-market vehicle, check the manufacturer's certification label near the driver's door opening. Federal certification labels include the month and year of manufacture, along with the VIN, GVWR and axle weight ratings.
The exact label position can vary, but it is normally on the driver's-side hinge pillar, latch post or nearby door-edge area.
Build Date Is Not the Same as Model Year
A vehicle can be manufactured during the previous calendar year and still belong to the next model year. For fitment, the important question is what the parts catalog says: some parts are model-year based, while others use an explicit split such as through 05/1987 or 06/1987 and later.
Important Preserve Rad Example: 1987 22R-TE Clutch Split
Turbocharged 22R-TE applications are a good example. Clutch cataloging changes at the 1987 production split: through May 1987 and June 1987 onward are not automatically the same configuration. If you have a 1987 Turbo Pickup or 4Runner, check the production date before ordering clutch components.
See our 22RE Clutch Kit Fitment Guide for related drivetrain-fitment logic.
Important Preserve Rad Example: 1991 4Runner Brake Split
Some 1991 4Runner front brake applications split at 05/1991 vs. 06/1991. That production change can affect rotor fitment, so “1991 4Runner” by itself is not always precise enough.
See the 1991 Toyota 4Runner Brake Fitment Guide for that specific split.
How to Send a Build Date for Fitment Help
- Give the model year.
- Give the month/year shown on the certification label.
- Include 2WD or 4WD.
- Include engine and transmission when relevant.
- For brakes, include caliper casting marks or rotor/drum measurements if requested.
- For a modified truck, identify the installed drivetrain or axle rather than relying only on the original label.
Do Not Use Build Date Unless the Catalog Requires It
A production date does not override every model-year listing. Use it when the manufacturer or Preserve Rad identifies a production split. If the listing has no build-date split, follow the normal year/engine/drivetrain fitment shown on that product.
If a listing calls out a month split and your label is missing or unreadable, use Fitment Help before ordering.