99 TJ Sahara Frame Advice

[Bmercer]

Finally pulling the trigger and fulfilling my life long TJ dream. Found a one owner california '99 TJ in pretty much my dream configuration. It is super clean inside and out. I know frame rust is the thing to look out for but if we are being honest, I don't have the knowledge to assess a 24 year old car frame.

I am not local to it, so I had it inspected by a mechanic, and while they found a chunk of expected work that needs to be done, they didn't mention anything about the frame. Everything looks pretty clean to me, but it looks like it was painted in some areas which gives me pause. Any thoughts on the condition of the frame/welds.

 

[AndyA]

It looks ok from those pictures as far as I can tell. Did you check Carfax/etc to see which States it has spent it's life in? Just Calif? That would be a good sign. Andy

 

[TheBoogieman]

It looks fine. Some people paint underneath to make it look cleaner, not just for rust issues.

 

[MaximusLJR06]

It looks fine. Some people paint underneath to make it look cleaner, not just for rust issues.

I don't even think thats fresh paint, looks like overspray from when they applied the tire shine lol That frame is good to go.

 

[P man]

There is one thing that bugs me a little and it may be a non issue. It almost looks like some frame damage in this pic. I'm probably wrong but I would want to look for myself.

 

[Andy-WhiteTJ]

Up here in the Northeast, that would be gone before you had a chance to think twice.

 

[Tex Walther]

Painted frame could definitely be to improve looks, or help prevent rust. Looks great from the pictures. Mine is definitely worse. Unfortunately the best way to tell is to check inside the frame.

 

[JEEPCJTJ]

That frame has either never seen salt or maybe even water or else the control arm bolts and the front brake lines have all been replaced some time last week.

 

[Irun]

If everything else checks out, don't hesitate.