2000 Sport Edition - T-Boned, flipped and totalled.

[orion43]

Hi.

Not sure where to post this sad news.

My 2000 4runner that i have had for 20 years was unfortunatelyT boned, flipped and totalled.

She still starts and runs, blwoing white smoke (maybe trans fluid in the fuel?) front and rear end look good. But sides are smashed up and the body is bent.

She only has 157k miles and has been fairly well maintained.

Currently 'negotiating' with the insurance company on fair market value. I think she is worth more than the are offering, but who doesnt.

So my question is this: Is it worth keeping as a salvage and reparing, parting or maybe finding another 3rd gen with front end damage for cheap, that can be repaired with my parts, or would it make more sense to just get what i can and let it go?

Maybe some of the front end could be swapped onto a 97 tacoma? not really sure what to do, but I hate to let it go, and time is always a factor. i am not exactly handy with a wrench or torch but i love this truck and planned on driving it for another 20 years. A lot of good memories, camping road trips with the dog etc.

Just looking for some advise or ideas on what to do, thank you.

Shared album - Ray Hu - Google Photos

 

[AuSeeker]

I don't know would be best for you, only you can decide that.

But if the engine is blowing white smoke, that can't be transmission fluid in your fuel, there's no way for the ATF to get into the fuel system, usually white smoke out the exhaust is a sign of water getting into the cylinders, usually that would be from water in the fuel, a blown head gasket or a cracked head or block.

 

[mscot]

is the frame bent or is it all cosmetic?

 

[JoeT4R]

Some pictures and a little more detail of a breakdown on things might be helpful. But as mentioned above, only you can ultimately decide that for yourself. Many factors to consider, and this isn't all inclusive, either:

- time
- money
- resources
- do you have other means of reliable transportation
- storage of the parts as well as storage for the vehicle itself
- do you have or know someone who has the mechanical ability to get this truck road worthy again
- cost effectiveness of keeping it, repairing it versus the investment into another vehicle
- if new vehicle, can you afford a car payment/pay for a "new" used vehicle in full with the amount from the insurance

Just some food for thought. I hope this helps some if at all.

 

[mrk00k]

Life is too short.

Great opportunity to look for a new 4runner.

Sucks though...I've gone both routes with previous vehicles. Unless it is minor damage, dont to it.