[PokeState]

I took a pretty solid shot to the rear end in rush hour a couple of days ago. The bumper is toast, the tailgate will need to be replaced and there is some damage to the lower quarter panel that will need some work. Unfortunately there is some frame damage also. It was hard enough to flex the bed into the cab, but not really bad. What else should I be looking for so I can show the adjuster? any help is appreciated.

 

[BCBrian]

Do you have a slide in bed liner? If so, you might want to pull it and inspect the welds along the front vertical seams on each side. The rear vertical seams, around the tailgate opening, should also be inspected carefully. That frame damage might be a little tough to repair so make sure you take it to a reputable shop for the inspection.

As you found out, the stock bumper is not very strong and is prone to folding into the bed. You may want to consider an aftermarket replacement from Shrockworks, Hefty or ARB.

 

[glamisdude]

I'd count on frame replacement which very well could total the truck depending on mileage and trim. Replacing the frame will be about $12-16k in parts and labor. Speaking from experience....

 

[TruckIt]

I would start looking for a new truck and see how much insurance will give you.

 

[vjmvjm]

Find the best body shop in your area, and take the truck there. Tell the adjuster that you have chosen the shop that will do the work, and have the adjuster work with the shop. If you just meet with the adjuster on your own, he / she will undoubtedly miss a lot of stuff that should be fixed, and you will either be unhappy with the work or will be fighting with the insurance company later.

Remember, it's your right to choose any body shop you want, and to threaten to sue the guilty party (not the insurance company) if you need to.

Vic

 

[Zedbra]

Meh - I got my bent frame repaired, worse damage than that in between the rear spring perches. Another to look for is the metal around the bolt mounts in the bed - if it hit the cab, it could have ripped out the bed bolt holder (this happened to me)

 

[PokeState]

Sitting in the 2nd body shop of the day. First gave me an estimate of $9000 but said Farmers Ins usually doesn't approve frame replacements so he is thinking totaled. Second one thinks the same but he is working up an estimate anyway. Figures it was almost paid off.

 

[quack4du]

That does stink.
But looking forward, would you want to be hit in the rear again knowing the frames' design safety had already been compromised?
Good luck with either a quality repair or search for the replacement.