Body of the 04 is surprisingly in good shape. Even better shape than a couple I looked at listed in the $10k-12K. The plastic bumpers and some of the plastic body panels have some scrapes but the body is relatively spotless. Undercarriage is decent for a Midwest vehicle. Surface rust but I have seen a lot worse. This will see some trail time so, given that the bumpers have a couple dings, I wont feel so bad on the trail.
To be more specific, the drivetrain has 103K miles. After some research apparently mice like to nest under the plenum of the 2uz and the wire for the knock sensor on the driver side is most commonly chewed on. I am suspecting this truck sat for a while and that is most likely the case. So regardless of what I choose, the plenum is coming off. The rims are shot from the corrosion too. They will need to be replaced. Not the the rims for my 3rd gen are that much better.
But my 3rd gen drives really well overall after recently replacing the springs and shock on all 4 corners. I mainly keep it around 70-75mph on the highway, but I know I can push it past 80mph if I want. No leaks or spots in my garage. No body rattles too. My parents have an 08 Chevy Colorado with 100K miles and it rattles far more than my 3rd gen.
$6500 for an 04 with 103k in relatively good condition I think is too good to pass up. Thinking I will probably list my 3rd gen on craigslist as a mechanics special for a good price and see what happens since I would probably get only $600 as a trade in from the dealer in its current condition.
