3rd Gen Panbar rust question

[j.s.powell]

I’m in the market for my 2nd 3rd Gen 4 runner and found one I’m interested in but I’m wondering about some significant rust on the panbar and if this is a no go. Seller is asking 5k and seems to be in good shape otherwise. Some superficial rust in other places but not bad. Transmission was recently replaced with a used (salvaged) transmission after the pink milkshake deal. It’s got 201k miles on it. Any advice is most welcome. See photo of rust. Thanks! Jules in Boone, NC

 

[JoeT4R]

I'd be more worried about that rust on the frame directly above it than the panhard bar. That's an easy replacement if needed. Is the rest of the rig mechanically sound?

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[j.s.powell]

Yeah, seems to be. Runs great— had a transmission replaced twice— whoever put it in the first time failed to place an important bushing and the fly wheel broke 3 different occasions, so owner replaced the transmission again (different mechanic) and it seems good, although there is screeching when it starts (so maybe a fly wheel issue?)— apprehensive about that, but it’s in much better shape (especially in the undercarriage) than my 2000 four runner with 350k. We get a lot of snow in the mountains, so plenty of salt in the winter…

 

[jgue467]

I'd stay clear of that much rust, we all know where it is leading, why go down that path?

 

[brillo_76]

I would basically inspect the entire entire frame for rot. In the rust belt, that's actually normal looking for that environment and age.

Out of the rust belt, I am sure that is considered super rusty.

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[Endlessblockades]

The West Coast has its issues, but salted roads would hasten my suicidal tendencies.

 

[brillo_76]

The West Coast has its issues, but salted roads would hasten my suicidal tendencies.

It's crazy what they do to the roads here. All they would have to do plow and sand. Instead they destroy the roads by melting everything which goes into the road cracks bust it up big time. Then we have pay to fix it. Granted, we do have a very bad freeze to thaw ratio as well. :/ I just wish the state would change their mind with the salt along with the calcium they use...

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[JoeT4R]

Yeah, seems to be. Runs great— had a transmission replaced twice— whoever put it in the first time failed to place an important bushing and the fly wheel broke 3 different occasions, so owner replaced the transmission again (different mechanic) and it seems good, although there is screeching when it starts (so maybe a fly wheel issue?)— apprehensive about that, but it’s in much better shape (especially in the undercarriage) than my 2000 four runner with 350k. We get a lot of snow in the mountains, so plenty of salt in the winter…

When you said "we get a lot of snow in the mountains" I had to look at your location. I've been through there before and that is GODS COUNTRY, man! Lol.