Looking for a 3rd gen- transfer case and price questions

Sold my 2nd gen tacoma tonight. It was worth too much to beat on Looking for a 3rd gen runner. Already owned a 4th gen runner and that along with the 2nd gen tacoma had actuator issues.

So, do the 3rd gens suffer from similar actuator issues? I see that there are two/ three types of transfer cases. Which one would you be looking for if you were shopping?

Also, I am hoping to find something that is sort of a project, but driveable and without too many frame issues (near Chicago for context). What do you think I should pay for something like that? I was hoping I could get a solid frame, running and driving, but with cosmetic issues for $1500-2000. Realistic?

If the frame is rusted, how far gone is too gone? I have a welder, and am not opposed to doing some jeep style saf-t caps, but I am not equipped to replace a frame. Do those premade weld in panels for frame exist? Doable at home?

Thanks in advance! Have always wanted one of these- loved the 4th gen other than the actuator issues, but it was too nice. Looking for something I wont feel bad abusing a little.

 

I have seen someone somewhere post a place that sells premade frame pieces to weld in.

You used to be able to get a decent running but beat 4Runner down south here in NC for that price. But not now. Used car prices are through the roof due to COVID, and the 3rd gens are getting snapped up by Toyota off-roaders and kids.

But hey, there are always basket cases out there for cheap. I would definitely go south and bring one back. I don't do rust anymore. It's worth the drive or plane ticket. Old southern cars are simply a joy to wrench on. No frozen bolts or rusted anything. They are usually cheaper too as there are more of them knocking around down here.

 

There's a '99 in Addison for $3950 on Craigslist. It has an e-locker, even. Ad says they have service records from new and timing gear and water pump have been done. I'm looking for a manual. Otherwise, I'd be looking at this one.

 

There is a green manual on FB for $4500. Guy has records and its in pretty good shape. Says it has a little rocker rust. If I spend 4-6k, will probably wait til the summer. Trying hard to stay in budget and not get upside down on one of these. To the poster who mentioned the locker, pretty sure the $1100 beater I am looking at has the rear locker. Its a 97 with the sort of multi-mode case. Has a button left of steering wheel, and I dont think the 97's had the locking center diff yet, so I figure must be a locker. Havent seen it in person yet, but he sent me some frame shots and it doesn't look totally thrashed by Chicago standards.

 

My parents live in Seattle, and I have flown there and driven a car back about 5 times because I much prefer to work on something without rust, but the money people want for a 4runner with 300k is nuts. If I were shopping for a mint condition example, would definitely be traveling to somewhere rust free. Really hoping to buy one I can beat up, but also in good enough shape I won't hate working on it. Do the alignment cams freeze up on these like they do with the 2nd gen tacomas?