How much rust is too much?

[trap-alaska]

My 2002 has spent it's life in the rust belt, KY, PA, and Germany. I was under it yesterday and am now concerned about the severity of the rust. The frame is in pretty good shape and the body is very solid. Most of the rust is on brackets, mounts, and bolts. Due to environmental constraints, it is hard to get a POR-type rust preventer in Germany. I am thinking that next summer, when I return to the States, I will go on a rust crusade and try to save her. At 185k miles, when should I dump her and look for a newer rust free model? I hate to pay for the 200k timing belt and then have parts start falling off. Thoughts or opinions?

 

[Hepar]

Due to the frame design, there are a LOT of spots on the inside of the frame that are most likely rusting that you cannot see. Pics would go a long way.

 

[MStudt]

By the sounds of it you don't have a rust issue.

How much rust is too much is something that I would ask myself. I've already repaired on section of the frame, and I'll be finished off the rest this summer. I'll also be replacing a cross member mount, and a lower control arm mount. I'll also have body rust to cut out, and fix.

That's a rust problem!