Wanted Looking for a Colorado '03-'06 Land Cruiser

I recently totaled my beloved 3rd gen 4Runner, and am looking to make the move to a 100 series LC. I've looked at the LX's, and while they're very nice, I much prefer the LC front end and standard suspension. I'm looking at higher mileage vehicles in the 180-200k range, as I'm trying to keep the price below $14k. I'd prefer black, gray, or silver. I'd consider green or blue if it was just the right vehicle, and am not really interested in white or gold. I realize I'm hunting for a unicorn with my list of requirements, and I'm checking every conventional channel like a mad man. I've been a longtime lurker on these forums, as I've long wanted to make the move to an LC. I appreciate any help from the Mud community.

Best Regards,
Josh

 

[FoCoCruiser]

Replying to my own post is sad, but I'm considering this '04 Cruiser from the Northeast that liftinghvy posted about from Texas. The vehicle is in impressive shape inside and out, but the undercarriage has a significant amount of rust from its life in CT and MA. What are my best options for getting it inspected, local dealership or begging SLEE for an inspection since they did all the offroad work. Are there companies that do rust removal and mitigation, or am I best off getting an inspection and doing the work myself? I have very little automotive experience, but can work a wire wheel and rust reformer, and am good at following basic instructions. Thank you Mud!

Autotrader - page unavailable

Best Regards,
Josh

 

[Max.Powerzz]

I would be super nervous about a rusty frame, if it’s beyond surface that’s not an easy fix