New member on the search for a truck. Frame rust question.

New to the Tacoma world and on the search for a 2nd Gen in the Midwest. My understanding is that the frames are a significant problem.

Where are the problem areas I need to pay attention to?

This is just a daily driver/hunting rig so where should I draw the line between normal surface rust and a major problem?


I'm going to attach a few pictures of trucks that I've passed on so far.

 

No good, keep looking. I bought mine when I lived in ks. Plenty of body rust, frame was ok. Good thing you are aware, plenty of folks have bought one with a rotten frame.

 

Welcome to TW

Be careful with some used car dealers.
I’ve seen them paint over rust to make it look good.

If the frame was replaced by Toyota they don’t replace the rear tow hitch bar assembly.You can use that as a “guide” to compare.

Rocker panel is also prone to rust too.

Don’t be afraid to see surface rust on the welds.

 

Look up near the front of the frame where the cats are, that area is the problem area. Also in that same area they sandwich the frame together and moisture seeps into that splice, never drys and promotes rust.

 

Based on the separation you're seeing from the rust that's there, I'd pass on that one.