Frame Rust! Good or bad?

Hey guys. Looking to buy a 1st gen taco, but not sure when and if i can cross the country to take a look at the car in person. I understand that there are many things one would want to confirm if the taco is in good shape. Especially, the frame rust. I uploaded some photos, if anybody can tell just from these few photos how the rust on this frame is? Whether it is not in bad shape or if this just looks like normal rust for these 1st gen’s? In addition, ball joints replacements shouldn’t be too pricey, right? Any other suggestions?

 

^Not in focus in the photo, but this area by the transmission crossmember looks like a big rust hole:



The frame also looks to have been repaired previously with Safe-T-Caps or similar plates. Factory frame rail corners are more rounded:

 

I’ll try to get more photos of the frame. But from your standpoint, would you say it’s a solid no for this 1st gen? It’s a 4x4 with under 90k miles.

 

^Correct. It is not roadworthy. Even as a parts truck, the rust would fight you with every part you try to remove.

 

I'd avoid this one. That rust hole is telling. Its what else you cant see that would scare me.

 

If it was local, check it out. Probably not worth crossing country for that. Travel for something clearly rust free...

 

Have you looked to find a rusty tacoma closer to your home?

 

2500$ ?? less?

it lookin' a bit crunchy to me

 

Don't travel for rust. Ever.

 

it would usually depend on the severity of the condition, yes? no??

this particular taco looks quite advanced from the pics