1st. Gen rust

Thinking about buying this 1st gen pre-runner I need some advice on how bad the rust is. Should I stay away? Should I undercoat it right away?

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Looks like mainly surface but it's so consistent I would stay away. $2k max

 

I'd pass on it.

The frame itself looks to be all surface rust, and if you take the time to hit it all with a wire wheel, would allow you to fully coat it.

However, the cross member there looks severely rotted which tells me there's a ton more that will be just as bad (if not worse).

Can't imagine how the spindles look, or other suspension components.

Don't bother.

 

They're not hiding anything which is nice, but I'd stay away personally. If it's noticable outside with these it's even worse inside the frame.

 

It’s three and a half hour drive. Would it be worth looking at in person? Im fine with putting in the work for the frame.

Thanks for all the fast replies.

 

Personally I wouldn't.

It's not just the frame concern, but the fact that any and all other components needing removal will be significantly more difficult than that of a rust-free vehicle.

Not worth it.

 

The truck is barely 11yrs old......just think what its gonna look like in another 5 or 6 years.

If you plan on getting all your use out of it in that time, that would be only way I'd even consider...

 

i cannot imagine the drain holes are free and clear to drain on that frame

 

I'll take a less fatalistic approach...
Depends on the price, your budget and overall condition. It Does look like surface rust and looks solid generally. If the exterior and interior are nice and low miles and price is good it could be a score. If its full of dog hair on seats and has a bunch of dents and 300k on engine I don't see the point of investing time. If you look at it put your fingers in the holes in frame to ascertain the rust inside frame. Camera would be better. Treat frame inside out waxoyl or fluid film.

 

11 years old would make it a 2013, not a 1st gen....what did I miss?

 

It's like saying "20 years ago" and implying you're talking about the 80s