Larry01

Thanks for your replies. I checked on the recall and the original owner had it "rust proofed" at her local dealer in 2003. I was assuming it was considered part of the frame although it provides connection points for some of the suspension in the rear. I hadn't thought of the nut stepping out in the frame. That might seal her fate. Thanks again.

After rebuilding engine due to leaky headgaskets and replacing all 4 struts/springs and rotor/pads the rear cross member decided to throw in the towel. I did the work myself on the other stuff but i'm not too excited about about the newest issue. I bought the car 2 years ago as a beater specifically for the winter commute but I like it and its grown on the family. What I need is advice about the hassle of replacing the rusted out bits. As far as I can tell its just the cross member and bar that connects the differential. All the bolts are extremely rusty and look like they'll break or at least have the heads flake apart. I don't have a lift but can get access to one. How many hours of fun am I looking at and is it worth it? The car only has 97k on it and has had a bunch of stuff replaced but she's very rusty underneath and has rusty spots by the wheel wells. Any advice about fixing or selling?