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Post by jeehole on Nov 5, 2003 8:20:59 GMT -5
Hi all.
I have a friend with an '83 pickup that we've been working on. The thing is in great shape, with only 70k miles. However, there is one major problem - the frame. We live in the north east, and the frame is rotting quickly. It already has several repaired spots, but its spreading like cancer.
This winter, we want to swap everything over to a new frame. Does anyone know of any sources for a new frame? I am having a hard time finding one.
Are there any companies like Matkins (who makes heavy duty jeep frames) that make aftermarket toyota frames?
If not, does anyone have a source to get a good stock frame?
Thanks in advance for any help.
Joel
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Post by snorkleman on Nov 5, 2003 9:02:06 GMT -5
Man I just got rid of a 89 frame. You might call around and check junkyards. Another way is to use www.junkyarddog.comThat might give you some leads. Good luck! |
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Post by jeehole on Nov 5, 2003 9:35:24 GMT -5
thanks snorkelman
do you know what years would fit for a replacement? I want to make the swap as straight forward as possible....
Thanks
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Post by DeadlyPeace on Nov 5, 2003 12:48:49 GMT -5
You could also try www.budbuilt.com. They're starting to make frame, but aren't quite ready for full out production.
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Post by fourwd1 on Nov 5, 2003 16:16:06 GMT -5
I had the same problem with my 83, luckily I found a good frame close by on the net.
BudBuilt makes some excellent products with service to match.
Have you tried plating over the bad spots ? You may at least be able to buy some time that way.
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Post by jeehole on Nov 5, 2003 16:20:47 GMT -5
Yeah,
Its got 4 spots that are plated over already, and its been holding, but I haven't much confidence in it.....
How did you go about finding the new frame? Just asking around? or did you use a junkyard service?
Thanks
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Post by fourwd1 on Nov 5, 2003 16:23:42 GMT -5
I started checking the For Sale forums of BBS's like this.
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Post by STR8AXLE on Nov 12, 2003 12:06:17 GMT -5
Check out T.A.P. Recycling (do a web search) . I replaced my 1985 frame with a used one from TAP. With shipping from California to Mass. it cost $1100.00 Thats not a bad price considering shipping across the country. The frame was mint, no rust what so ever. I still cleaned it and repainted it (using a brush) with some heavy duty oil based paint. Frame has held up through 7 New England winters now and it still is solid. I highly recomend washing out older Toy frames several times a year. I was uncertain about taking on the project at first but it ended up being well worth it. Good Luck!
-STR8AXLE
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Post by jeehole on Nov 12, 2003 12:21:41 GMT -5
Thanks for the info Str8axle, i will check them out.
What exactly do you mean by "washing out the frame"?
I have heard some people drill small drainholes in the bottom of the frame rails to help water to drain out and not collect inside. The newer toyota frames have these holes.
Thanks again
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Post by fourwd1 on Nov 12, 2003 12:30:28 GMT -5
He means (I think) using water pressure (or air pressure, that works too) to flush all the crap out of the inside of the frame. Start at the front of each frame rail and work your way to the back, inserting your hose in every possible opening ;D as you work your way back, forcing all the crap that has accumulated inside (gravel, sand, rust, mouse nests, bees nests, etc) out the rear opening.
BTW, be very very careful when dealing with TAP Recycling, they have a very bad rep, although they seem to be better with out-of-state customers then they do CA locals.
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Post by STR8AXLE on Nov 12, 2003 14:03:02 GMT -5
There are already drain holes in the frame, and as fourwd1 mentioned just wash all the crap out of the frame rails from time to time. TAP sold me a bed too, and it worked out ok. Other than that I can't speak for their quality. Any junk yard in the mid-south west will have solid frames for your truck. C-ya
-STR8AXLE
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