Rust on Frame

[AirOlson]

Hey everyone, im still looking for the right 4runner. I came across a low mileage (148,000km) 2001 Sr5. The owner is asking $10,000, he also has a lot of maintenance done on the vehicle. Im just worried about the frame pictures he sent me. I would like to know your opinion on the pictures I will post.
Also, here is the add for the truck: 2001 Toyota 4Runner

http://www.flickr.com/photos/90762171@N05/[email protected]

 

[audiness]

That rust is actually pretty normal amount for a 2001 in snow country. Just make sure that there are no spots where the rust is anything beyond surface rust.

but $10k ......no way. I don't know what the USD to CAN exchange rate is, but it sounds like way too much.

 

[fourwd1]

It's really hard to tell from the pics if its just surface rust or if its eating thru the frame.
The best thing to do is to take a small hammer or something and start tapping the frame anywhere there is rust. And a scrap it to see if its surface rust or all the way thru.

 

[Buckaroo]

Rust really looks good in the pics. The muffler appears to have a gap in the side seam - likely leaking (same as mine). Rust look good on the outboard side of the frame rail but look on the inboard side, beside the muffler. Mine looked relatively good on a cursory inspection but was rotted extensively up beside the muffler - had to be directly underneath to see it. Had it welded which turned out fine.

Also - will be needing timing belt at some point - due at 90,000 miles vs the 100,000 miles currently on the truck. I did mine for the first time at 188,000 miles - didn't look too bad but I would not recommend letting it go that long. Looks like there may be a timing belt maintenance sticker on the timing belt cover so maybe it has been done - if so, I am impressed. There is a small question why someone would go to the expense of doing the timing belt and then sell the vehicle within 10,000 miles but maybe this guy is just particular.

Does seem pricey at ~$10,000, even with the low mileage but I imagine these are in demand in your neck of the woods.....

 

[Hepar]

It's definitely normal given its location, but I wouldn't pay $10k for it. I would spend a little extra money and look someplace not in a rust-prone area.