Personal Course of Action/Observations (chronological)

(August, 2014) Purchased 2013 Tacoma AC with 4430 miles





(September, 2014) Observed small rust spots on front box part of frame near cats. Several TW members note that this is the area where rust usually first occurs on Tacoma frames.

(September, 2014) On the frame adjacent to the front wheel wells I used CRC Heavy-Duty Corrosion Inhibitor, it passed a rigorous salt water test and was rated as one of the best rust preventors according to an experiment posted on:

On the frame adjacent to the front wheel wells I used, it passed a rigorous salt water test and was rated as one of the best rust preventors according to an experiment posted on: http://www.thehulltruth.com/sportfishing-charters-forum/123560-test-corrosion-inhibitor-sprays.html . It dries with a wax candle type finish.

(October, 2014) All other parts of the frame, inside the bottom 1/3 of the doors, inside the entire tail gate, inside of rocker panels, and this area: Fluid Film. Although I have not yet formed a conclusion as to the best crc, Fluid Film was mentioned favorably by many reviewers, was readily available at my local marine supply store, and I just felt I had to get something on. Another advantage of Fluid Film is that it contains no solvents, therefore plastics, rubber, and paint will not be harmed by over-spray. All other parts of the frame, inside the bottom 1/3 of the doors, inside the entire tail gate, inside of rocker panels, and this area: http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd...leaf-trap.html I applied. Although I have not yet formed a conclusion as to the best crc,was mentioned favorably by many reviewers, was readily available at my local marine supply store, and I just felt I had to get something on. Another advantage ofis that it contains no solvents, therefore plastics, rubber, and paint will not be harmed by over-spray.

CRC Heavy Duty Corrosion Inhibitor vs Fluid Film :



- CRC Heavy Duty dries with a wax candle-like consistency and has an apparently more durable finish than Fluid Film.



- Fluid Film has a lower viscosity and therefore is easier to get an even consistency of coverage and is able to penetrate and seep into nooks and crannies better than CRC Heavy Duty. Fluid Film's lower viscosity and penetrative power also means it's superior for moving parts such as locks and latches.

(October, 2014) Plugged all small top and side (left bottom holes open for draining) holes in the front box part of the frame with 3M 08019 Clear Marine Grade Silicone Sealant: $13 3M Marine Grade Silicone Sealant, Clear, PN08019, 3 oz Tube http://www.amazon.com/3M-08019-Marin...256526-2477841 . I prefer to use silicone because I'm intimate with the capillary action of water and fear plugs may not seal 100%. I can always later easily remove the silicone for reapplication of crc and/or inspection and reseal.

Some folks may opt to use plugs: