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Frame Protection for water crossings

Discussion in '1st Gen Tundras (2000-2006)' started by rtkman, Aug 5, 2025.

  1. Aug 5, 2025 at 6:51 AM
    #1
    rtkman

    rtkman [OP] New Member

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    South MO
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    2017 TRD Pro CM 4wd, 2013 TSS CM 4wd, 2004 DC 4wd Ltd, 2002 AC 2wd SR5
    I have a new to me 04 DC originally from Arizona. The frame has no rust which is awesome. Part of my weekend routine is a series of water crossings on the way to my hunting place.
    What frame coating would you guys suggest for frequent exposure like that?
    My 06 Tacoma (daily driver) hasn't suffered from frame rust but I want to protect the Tundra if possible. Thanks
     
  2. Aug 5, 2025 at 7:41 AM
    #2
    shifty`

    shifty` Earth acid cleanses me, cleanses me clean

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    Frames have drain holes, which should be functionally removing the water from the rails.

    But I think @FirstGenVol can share some details on what he was using, I think some kind of extension with Fluid Film that let you spray in the holes?

    Salt is the real killer, much moreso than water. Or mud, anything that holds the moisture to the metal. Which I can imagine will happen with in-rail coating, once dust loads up on the coating.
     
    G_unit3000 and rtkman[OP] like this.
  3. Aug 5, 2025 at 7:44 AM
    #3
    ATBAV8

    ATBAV8 Mr. Bentley-He builds fast trucks.~Ettore Bugatti

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    Tempe, AZ
    Vehicle:
    2003 V8 SR5, Access Cab, 4x4, White
    Bilstein 5100s with OME 2884 springs, Firestone RideRite airbags.
    Water in and of itself is not going to harm the frame. Do you drive in the rain. Ever wash your car? What kills these frames are states that salt the roads in the winter months. I don't think you have to worry about that in South MO. If you're still not convinced, there are products that you can spray on your frame to protect it. I.E. Fluid Film, Waxoyl, Cavity Wax, etc. However, in my opinion it's all unnecessary for what you're describing.
     
  4. Aug 5, 2025 at 9:33 AM
    #4
    FirstGenVol

    FirstGenVol Recovering mangler

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    East TN
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    Agree with the others but I'd add that mud can cause issues. If you're going to be doing a fair amount of off roading I would pressure wash the undercarriage every so often.
     
  5. Aug 5, 2025 at 10:12 AM
    #5
    Tundra Texan

    Tundra Texan New Member

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    None at this point.
    Personally?
    I wouldnt worry about it,your frame gets wet every time it rains.
    Now if you have exposed steel on the frame as in no paint thats different.
    If thats the case I'd just hit it with several coats of rattle can primer and paint.
     
    rtkman[QUOTED][OP] likes this.

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