What to do with wrecked Prerunner (4x4 conversion)

I just picked up a replacement tacoma to replace my 2nd gen access cab tacoma. I know the typical advice would be to sell the 4x2 tacoma and buy a 4x4 rather than convert it to 4x4. With it being wrecked and the body messed up already, would it be worth it to convert it to a off road rig? All the drivetrain is fine. Mostly body damage with some damage to the frame near the hitch.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/05-15-2wd-to-4wd-conversion-guide-for-dummies.716703/ Read the whole thing, this is considered a good DIY project. Be sure that you’re comfortable with the process and have the basic tools to tackle the challenge. I’ll do it all over again. Cheers!

 

It would be worth it if it is worth it to you ! Lots of people have spent way more on hobbies but find joy in doing them...So go for it if it is something you want to do...Only you can answer if it is worth it or not...So have fun! Sounds like a great project...

 

Thanks, I'm working my way through it.
As it wouldn't be an on road vehicle, I wondered if it would be easier to get a non 2nd gen toyota axle, and swap that in. Punching outside of my weight class on this project.

 

Oh you mean like a 1 ton for the rear?

 

No necessarily the rear, I was thinking more the front.

 

Send it!

 

You've got two trucks? Which is wrecked? How wrecked? How about some pics? How do you know the frame damage is local to the hitch? How about some specs?

 

The 2007, its a TRD Sport Prerunner with V6. Headlights and front grill are broken, passenger bedside has a couple of kinks. Bed temporarily impacted the cab and sprung back. Bumper and tailgate are trash. Frame is bend near where the hitch is attached, but it tracks straight. I don't know if its perfectly straight, but not worth fixing at this point.