Reminder to Check for aggressive rust on cross member

[Seasparrow]

It has been on here a few times in the past so forgive me for starting another thread but maybe newer members like myself will appreciate the information.

JPEG's are after the sanding and painting.

Below the radiator & AC condensor is a cross member running from the left frame to the right frame, for whatever reason, bugs, condensation etc etc, this cross member deserves an inspection and probably some attention, sanding painting because of the aggressive rust that forms. I do not know of the condition of the top of the member, as I could only see/feel that it was on the top front leading edge, maybe someone else who took a closer look can offer more info.

My temp repair is not the best but It was all I could do at the time.

Mine is an 04 4th Gen Sport Edition.

 

[Big Red 4Runner]

As a newbie T4R owner and site member, I appreciate this heads up. I'll be sure to get my newly acquired 4th gen on a lift or jack stands asap to check this out more thoroughly!:thumb:

 

[Seasparrow]

No need for jacking, it's tall enough and close to front

Just crawl under, plenty of room. (even with my belly). Let us know how much you have.

 

[T4R2014]

It rusts from the inside out. Buy a can of fluid film and shoot it into that crossmember.

 

[Seasparrow]

I hit solid metal

I'm am not saying you are wrong but in my case the sanding was successful, if it had rusted from inside out wouldn't I have had holes ??? My thought was that the acidity from dead bugs falling/washing from the condenser or constant condensation/rain dripping caused it ??? It was a very specific line on the top front leading edge.

 

[WallyT4R]

Toyota is known to have excessive rust issues on their frames. It's just one thing you have to deal with owning a Toyota. As always I recommend to fluid film on a yearly basis to keep the rust at bay especially if you live in an area where they put down salt.

 

[Seasparrow]

where are the access points you use

It looks pretty solid, where do you gain access to the interior of the cross member ?

Could it be that is a weld seam ????