Buying a used TJ, need a second opinion on frame

Lopez4163

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new to forum, I’ve always wanted a Jeep Wrangler growing up and now since I can afford one I’m looking into getting a TJ. I live in the north east so rust is a problem. I’m posting pictures of a sellers TJ and I’m looking for a second opinion before I buy one since they are expensive. He says he’s has some frame work on the drivers side infront of the axel, I can Definetly see the welds. What y’all think frame wise, he wants 6,700$ the outside and interior of car looks fine. Thanks
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Thanks I really appreciate the insight, I’m Definetly gonna pass on it, I’m in no rush just waiting for the right one
 
You will find one that hasn't been hacked on.
Totally worth the search!
Welcome to the Forum!
 
Is that the worst frame I've seen? Far from it.

is that the best frame I've ever seen? Not even close.

Without knowing exactly what you're looking at, passing on that one is a good idea. It's probably not even a bad idea when you know what your looking at.
 
Are we not over reacting. It's obvious that the frame has been repaired but I am trying to figure out what could go wrong. Could it fall out or break down in pieces? I doubt so unless it's hollow with rust from inside.
I am trying to understand about others opinion why did they all say I would walk away.
I might overlook it if the miles are less and everything else is good.
 
I have nothing against a professionally patched frame. That was not done professionally.

Unless you are getting a big discount, I would purchase down south. It's worth paying a premium for a truly rust-free rig.
 
The worst places were fixed. There are more that will come through. Drive a few hours toward me and bu

I have nothing against a professionally patched frame. That was not done professionally.

Unless you are getting a big discount, I would purchase down south. It's worth paying a premium for a truly rust-free rig.
How do you identify that it was not done professionally? I wanted to know more for my own knowledge and better understanding.
 
How do you identify that it was not done professionally? I wanted to know more for my own knowledge and better understanding.
There is only one way to patch a frame, and that is using caps from Auto Rust Technicians (called SafeTCaps) or Pocono Metal Craft. They look the same. A skilled welder first cuts off the bottom portion of the frame with a plasma cutter and then welds on the cap. In some cases the cap may only be needed in the rear trailing arms, or just under the skid plate, but usually it's best to replace everything.

This is what they look like (though usually primed and painted after installation). If you see random patches in the frame, it means the dude only cut out the worst rot and left the moderate rot.

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There is only one way to patch a frame, and that is using caps from Auto Rust Technicians (called SafeTCaps) or Pocono Metal Craft. They look the same. A skilled welder first cuts off the bottom portion of the frame with a plasma cutter and then welds on the cap. In some cases the cap may only be needed in the rear trailing arms, or just under the skid plate, but usually it's best to replace everything.

This is what they look like (though usually primed and painted after installation). If you see random patches in the frame, it means the dude only cut out the worst rot and left the moderate rot.

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Any idea how much such kind of patching cost including that part?
 
The "right jeep" for us northeasterners is located down south. Only way to get a worry free frame on one unless you find someone who already brought one up from the salt free states. I would suggest upping your budget to add a plane ticket and gas money. I just picked up my new to me truck from SC and the rust free body and frame was well worth the effort and money.
 
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The worst places were fixed. There are more that will come through. Drive a few hours toward me and buy a rust free Jeep that hasn't had frame issues, then take care of it and live happily ever after. :)

people driving south to get them has drove the price up significantly in my area the last few years.
 
that's not a typical NE frame. does it have issues? ya, possibly.

the PO allowing use of hack patches is whats done him in here.
that frame appears to have been cleaned and refinished. and 80% of it looks better than most, it's that crap patchwork that makes it unacceptable.
 
Yes, pass. My two tj's. the 01 sport was a Minnesota vehicle and my 03 Rubicon is a Texas jeep. I knew the 01 was a mess when I bought it. They had clobbered on a bunch of scrap iron and call it fixed. I got it home and started looking at it really close and decided this frame is $40 a ton scrap iron. Replaced the frame. It not any problem to remove and replace the body and I makes it easy to do tougher projects like replacing frost plugs, etc. I bought it to keep it and my estate will sell it when I tip over so I spent 3 days fixing it right. Never buying a 20 year old vehicle in the north again though. The problem with a fixed frame is the same as cancer, where does the cancer end. After we removed the frame I plasma cut the frame apart in many areas and there was the beginning of rust thoughout the end side of the tubes. If you fix it YOU look at when it is cut apart to see what they are welding to.
 
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Step 1.) Crop your pictures before posting...that was brutal to scroll through

I've learned very quickly that this is the wrong place to ask about a frame. The answer here is ALWAYS no. Even when looking at something pretty damn clean. Is the goal to have the Jeep for the next 150 years? If I get 8-10 years out of a vehicle that is already 20 years old, I'm going to be pretty damn happy. That little patch isn't a big deal. Hell, the accepted fix on these frames are the safety caps which is a complete abortion hacking out the entire bottom of the frame and welding in huge sections. Be realistic, with your goals on a $6,500 vehicle. I wouldn't hesitate on a Jeep with this frame for $6,500.