Looking at this Tacoma

If it helps you get a good deal on a good truck go for it!

 

Best tactic! sure the 3rd party inspection will cost you some $ but can save you $$$$$$ in the longer run. Plus no surprises

 

Out of the two trucks I posted on this thread (both from dealers) the one in MA is looking more promising from a couple areas. 1) I can get in touch with the dealer and he is very receptive to taking lots of photos of the undercarriage. 2)I think I can negotiate with him 3)service records indicate the truck had water pump and timing belt done at same time as frame 4)even though the frame was replaced in 2011 it has only had 15K miles on it since then.

I am not going to give up on the truck in CT but the dealer is a pain in the ass to work with.

 

Just to put some perspective into your potential buy:

A year ago I purchase my 04 Xtracab trd 4wd v6 with 99k for 12,5 WITH a slightly rusted frame and I thought that to be a little high but it was absolutely worth it. I ended up sanding and recoating the frame myself. Don't lose a completely clean truck because of $1000, I would give them $14k flat and walk out with a rare truck!

 

Well after receiving a ton of really detailed picture from the seller in MA I decided to pass on the truck. It was nice, but not nice enough for his price. I have yet to hear back from the seller in CT despite calling him incessantly.

Basically what it comes down to is that I will only let myself replace my 97 with a truck in better condition, which is extremely difficult, but I'm OK with that.

Thanks for the wise words everyone. The search for the perfect double-cab will be put on hold while I take care of some maintenance on my 97 in the next couple months.

 

Finally got time to post pictures of the truck in MA...Prepare for massive photo dump.

Link to Truck: http://www.masterautogroup.com/2004_Toyota_Tacoma_Revere_MA_266436999.veh




My concerns:

Missing all skip plates, Frame needs some TLC, body has some chips and rust that will need to be dealt with. And also all new shocks and leafs.

Thoughts? Asking $13,499...I would like to pay a lot less if I decided to take this truck on.

 

I would say that doesn't look bad, BUT it (mostly) all looks painted....who painted the frame, and what is it covering up?

 

That's one of my concerns. It looks like rust bullet was used, which i guess is better than some dude just spraying a can of black paint to hide stuff.

Edit: That is also a new frame in 2011 or 12.

 

I'd run away

 

Yeah that's what my gut tells me. Always looking for my unicorn 1st gen double cab. Not settling for anything other than perfect.