sorry I never read the whole thread :)
But I have experience with toyo M55's on work trucks.
They get used on heavy gravel use, high speed, drifting type driving in northern conditions.
They last and are tough. Worth it IMOP.
Might be a little loud. But not mudder loud.
I've seen them on...
43K for a 96 diesel is crazy IMOP. If he gets it, great for him.
But you can buy a low miles clean 1hd-t engine/trans for a 91-97 80 series if you wish.
The engine/trans combo is about 10k. It can be done so clean you will think it is stock.
There is a guy doing these conversions in Van(ex...