frame

i bought an 02 tacoma extended cab 4x4 with rusted frame, i have another good frame, any body have a write up or procedure to remove cab and front end to change frame out? i have replaced bed before but thats all just lokking for tips or advice thanks in advance steve

 

I am also looking for this information. I'll be doing it to my 2001 Prerunner, Regular cab, auto. I really am looking for some detailed, step-by-step sort of info. Much appreciated!

 

It sure would be cool if someone were to do it and document it as a diy...

 

I like this method https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Urqq8FbVvb0

 

Thanks for sharing that video, devin. I'm going to do this, it's primarily now just a matter of finding a frame without rust that hasn't been in an accident. Tacoma yards don't seem to be plentiful where I live (NE Indiana), and I've been checking carpart for a good frame nearby. If anyone has tips on other places to search, I'm open to suggestions!
And if anyone has any experience with frame replacements / removing the cab / tips, hints, tricks, things-you-wish-someone-would-have-told-you, etc., I'll take 'em!
And yes, Kruso, I'll do my best to document the process once it is underway.

 

I've swapped several cabs on Tacomas and 4runners. It is not to difficult to swap. The main thing is disconnecting everything, wiring, brake lines, steering, shifters , The a/c can stay with the cab and you don't need to seperate any lines. I've used an engine hoist to lift the cab. If you have questions or need more info let me know.

 

I just completed a frame swap on my '99 extended cab. The worst part was working by myself without a hoist. The 2nd worst part is getting rusty parts apart like cam bolts, lower control arm bushings, rear leaf spring bushings, exhaust, tie rod ends for home alignment and brake lines all in order by suck factor. I chose to leave the motor and trans on the frame and lift the cab up high enough with pipe stands. I then placed the cab onto a wooden cart that I constructed and wheeled the cab out removing 1 of 3 crossboards at a time to clear rear wheels. I had to get the frame as low as possible so I removed the front springs and threw on wheels only with no tires and dropped it as low as possible. Any questions let me know.


My replacement frame was on '04. I found the very front crossmember and frame is different, the body mount height and related bolts are different and the fuel neck mounts slightly different but is still compatible.

 

Nice project. Someday I will find a 5spd extra cab and put my double cab on it.

BTW the Whiteline LCA bushings are sweet if you still need them. I just had to pick up new alignment cams from the dealer today for the drivers side.

 

I went with E.S. simply because I wasn't aware of any other options. I scabbed two cam bolts off of a 3rd gen 4Runner and then bought one new one from the dealer.

 

Thanks for the pictures! Xcmtb83, where did you end up finding your replacement frame?

 

I bought it from a salvage yard for $300. Even though everything lines up good enough to bolt it together the frame isn't perfect. I have made arrangements to have the local community college autobody program take it on as a class project in January for their chassis straightening class.