Replacing Frame

Hi! New to this site but I have owned 98 Tacoma, 4 cylinder Automatic for about 7 years. Just found at during inspection that the frame, right in front of the driver side front leaf sprint shackle is rotted through and won't pass inspection.

Also found out I missed the warranty extension so I have 3 options.

1. Sell it as a parts truck
2. Attempt to repair the damage
3. Swap the frame for a good one.

As far as swapping the frame I found what I have been told is a good frame so I asking has anyone here done a frame swap and if so how long did it take.

My truck only has 139,000 miles on it so I hate the idea of having to get rid of it.

Thanks for any help!

 

If it can be repaired, do it or look for another truck, unless you are able to swap frames on the cheap

 

They quoted me a price of $1200 for the frame, but I think he had no idea and pulled it out of the air. I can probably get it cheaper than that.

I'm concerned about the time it would take me.

Repair is certainly an option I'm thinking if the one spat is bad though I might have other issues. I plan on removing the bed to get better access to the frame to give it a full inspection!

 

I quests I can assume from the silence that no one has done this before?

 

I guess it would depend on the availability of tools, lift, space etc...

Honestly I'm just pulling this out of my ass, but assuming you have a lift, all the required tools, help, etc.. at least a week of straight work

 

talk to Monte.

 

The swap is out! I saw the frame the seller said was in good condition but after I broke off the section of the frame the trailer hitch mounts too and then put my finger through the inside of the frame in front of the leaf spring shackle I concluded his definition of good and mine were different!

I'm going to remove the bed and get a good look at my frame before I decided if it is worth tiring to repair.

I'll post some pictures when I get the bed off!

 

I hate people like that. What a waste of time. I think you need to shop for another truck. You have a great parts vehicle to work with. I mean it runs well, correct?

 

Yes it runs well, I'm not confident I can find another 98 with a good frame though!

 

Dude just get a fabricator to make you the new parts and box your frame!

 

Sorry I have not posted in a while, but I removed the bed last Sunday and just got a chance to look it over today. There are at least 4 spots 2 of which are huge that are rusted right through the frame and the rest is a mess, with big flakes of rust coming right off. It almost looks like the metal is delaminating. The two spots on the frame where the trailer hitch bolts to are so corroded i can bend the metal with my fingers.

Looks like frame repair is out!