Need advice on wreck repair with front differential

[Condor12]

I recently wrecked my 01 4runner and they want to total it. The other car hit me square in the left front wheel. It broke the front suspension, and according to the adjuster says the front differential is messed up. Judging from the fact that the other driver was going 35-40, I'm not surprised. I just put a $3200 tranny in, and the truck was it excellent condition. The truck has 186K on it.
I think I can buy the truck back after settlement. Is this some thing that is probably limited to the front dif, and is it reasonable to expect to fix this? I'm no mechanic, but have a decent amount of experience turning bolts. The body damage was limited to the left front fender and front bumper. I really loved this truck, I'm heartbroken.

 

[fourwd1]

I'd be concerned about the frame and suspension.
Was any of that damaged? Frame bent?
Some pics of the damaged areas might help.

 

[5phasewellness]

I bought my 97 back for 500$. They tried to give me 3600. I made look at the local and national market and they gave me 6300. Had 230k miles. Pics would help with the diff. Pics of the cv to diff will help tell. Dibs on your hood if you sell.


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[RonJR]

Yeah, the real question is the frame. If the vehicle got hit hard on the wheel, as it seems it did, the forces get transmitted through the LCA to the frame, and there could be some damage. A good body shop should be able to tell you if it's been tweaked.

At a minimum you'll need a new diff, new CVs, new LCA, probably UCA, steering spindle, brake rotor, steering rack and tie rod, etc. All that will add up, but a salvage yard may net you the parts for a fairly reasonable cost. Honestly, as much as you love the truck, I'd start looking for another one to fall in love with. They're out there.

If the other driver was at fault, don't allow his insurance to just give you the book value of your vehicle. The other driver's insurance company isn't insuring your vehicle - you have a liability claim against them, and they are on the hook for all of your losses, including time off work to deal with this, rental cars, etc. They'll try to convince you that they are just responsible for the book value of your 4runner, but that's hogwash and you should tell them so.

On the other hand, if you were at fault, then all you have is a property claim and the book value is about all you'll get.

 

[fourwd1]

You guys realize you just piled on a 4 yr old thread?