I never really got into cars, but I am mechanically able.
I have a 2003 Toyota Tacoma 2WD 3.4 Liter.
I want to maintain it myslef because I can save money and because I want to be my own quality control.
I only want to keep in maintained, I plan to take it in for big repairs.
Can anybody tell me what sort of tools and things I should buy, inentory lists, or other advice?
please do not respond if you think American made cars are better... you'll only make an ass of yourself.
I said mechanically able, not mechanically experienced...

I wouldn't let the harassment get to me! These morons are on here all the time showing off their ignorance! NEVER let one of them near your vehicle! Believe me, I've worked around these idiots before!
There's nothing wrong with a Toyota and it's probably superior in quality to anything built in the states! It will definitely be running when the American made quits! All because of the people I mention above that work in GM, Ford, and Chrysler!
Just get yourself a basic tool set, metric and SAE and a Chilton's repair manual. That will pretty much cover the bases for you to get started and go from there. Always the Internet for information also. In fact, Toyota has some very good forums on the net to help you out should you need help.

yeah buy a American made truck.

The big money maintence items timing belt water pump cam and crankshaft seals requires tools a $550 dollar mid grade chraftsman three drawer roll around mechanics set will do. $200 floor jack and four jack stands. Now something to impact the lug nuts off $450 240 volt craftsman air compressor at least 5 hp. $150 harbor freight northern tool hose reel.$250 Air blower 3/8 air wratchet 3/8 inpact 1/2 inpact and basic impact sockets. $150 assorted funnels drain buckets and know where to recycle fluids. Flat driveway two car garage Neighbors that won't call the city code inspector each time you have to work late into the night to get your truck ready to go to work? Were at 1,700 dollars with out lighting new shop with lift ventilation and epoxy floors. Some savings yes? Greasy finger prints on all your houses walls.. I keep work at work.

a oil wrench and drainage pan for oil changes
a socket set, deep well for changing sparkplugs
flat and philips screwdrivers to tighten or loosen screws