How much rust is too much

Hey yall, I just bought a 98 tacoma base 2.4 for towing a trailer from Texas to California. I inspected it before purchase and it seemed fine but once I got it home and got under the truck I noticed two rust holes on my drivers side about the size of a half dollar each. I went around the rest of the frame with a hammer and wire brush but didn't find any other rust holes. I plan on getting the spots cut out and welding in new metal before the haul but money is kinda tight rn and I wanna know if I'd still be able to tow with the rust

 

Thats unfortunate man, I probably wouldnt. Looks like someone tried to paint over that and hide it at some point.

 

I’m not saying it’s hopeless, but that needs attention

 

Who knows what other spots youll find like this. This would be a no go for me

 

I would not weld in new metal. I would have the damaged area sleeved. I would also take this somewhere that specializes in frame repairs, unless you're a good welder. It's gonna cost $$$, but this is the time to pay once cry once.

 

Depends on the weight of the trailer. There are several variables at play, but I wouldn't rule it in or out without considering the weight of your load.

 

Planning on pulling a Uhaul 4x8 trailer max load probably would be 1200 to 1500 with trailer weight

 

Honestly tho I'm pretty sure we could load everything in a 4x7 uhal trailer

 

This frame looks painted over, i.e. someone made a conscious decision not to repair it but just make look sellable, so who knows what else was hidden. Do you have time to drive around to find out more? Or you go straight Texas to California?
I wouldn't risk it.
You break down somewhere in between - then what?

 

Were it me (and you have to do you...) and I hammer tested all the rest of the frame and felt good about it, and was carrying 1200 lbs trailer I think I'd go. But, one of my tacomas has a frame with multiple holes in and a welded sleeve, and I carry on with it as a daily driver and occasional wood hauler. We all have a comfort zone, and that's different for different people.

 

As long as the rear sections of the rails (where the hitch attaches) are solid, 1500# is no big deal.