1995 LX 4x4 Extra Cab frame rust.

Hi Group,

I unfortunately got a call for my truck inspection stating it failed for a hole rusted through the frame. I haven't seen it yet, but I was told it was only a single spot near the leaf springs. I'm trying to gauge if I want to repair and keep, repair and sell, or sell as is. The truck is in pretty good shape otherwise. Starts right away, 4x4 works, all electrical is good, etc. 202k miles. If I do the repair route, any idea on costs? I reached out to 2 authorized saf t cap shops, but have not heard back. Seems like there is a market for this particular truck, but want to be realistic if I price as is. Forgot to add to title, 5 speed manual.


Any feedback is appreciated,
Tom

 

If you only safe T cap where that one hole is, then its a total bandaid fix. There's likely extensive frame rot on the inside of your frame rails all over. Repairs will be very costly, so selling as is, or parting it out as is, probably makes the most financial sense. If you really love it, then be prepared to dump some serious cash into this thing to get that frame sorted [or learn to weld quickly].

 

You need to inspect the frame thoroughly by hitting it with a hammer to see what is good and what is rotten through. Only then you will be able to tell if it is worth trying to attempt a fix or not

First areas to check are where the leaf springs attach to the frame, right behind the cab, inner frame rails by the gas tank and catalytic converter, and frame section under the bed around the shock mounts because these are the worst areas for frame rust/rot

 

Only a up close and in person inspection.

By a person skilled in these trucks can tell for sure.

Industrial sabotage from the Chinese.

 

I just got my truck back, and the rust really doesn't look too bad too me. The only area that is rusted through is right in front of where the leaf springs attach. I tapped everywhere else and it sounds solid. Either way I'm going to sell the truck, but I think it's at least worth it having a fabricator/welder that is familiar with these trucks to take a look.

 

Take some good, clear pics and post them here. That will help with the recommendations

Note: opinions regarding rust vary wildly on here. New England guys like me are used to seeing shit rotted out all the time. West coast guys (a big percent of the population on here) freak out about minor surface rust. So take it all with a grain of salt.

 

Thanks. The attached pics show where the leaf springs mount, as well as the shock mount. Most of the rust is just surface, and has a solid sound when hitting with hammer.

I'm from the northeast as well. I've had the truck since 2009, and I've only driven it in the snow 1-2 times. I really only use the truck to get mulch, lumber, etc. It's a fair weather driver.

 

A borescope to get a better visual inside the frame rails may be a good idea.

 

Thanks for the suggestion. I've got a wifi borescope. It doesn't produce the best images, but should give me an idea of what the inside looks like.

 

I had a 2003 4x4 that developed a hole on the passenger side just past where the spring shackle was mounted. Thanks to reading on this site I ordered the Saf T cap. I have a buddy at work who welds on the side. He ground it down, welded the cap in place, then painted it. The repair went great without issue.