I don't think this one needs a new frame, just maybe some reinforcement in key locations and removal of some members to clear bigger tires. If I remember right, I think all colemans have a fully boxed frame, at least I know mine does.

Other than a lift, I think it could use some softer suspension and damping to help with washboard roads. Washboard roads will kill the interior. Even the guy we bought it from said he's had to go through and tighten the screws holding the cabinets together.

The stock suspension uses these tiny little leaf springs with no shackles and no shocks. It gets its damping from the back of the leaf spring rubbing on the frame. Going with car tires and airing down would help a lot too.

We picked it up for $2300. It seems like these coleman taos campers go for around $2500 and even right now, there is a 97 here in phx for sale for $2300.

If you want to restore one, you can pick one up for as little as a few hundred dollars. The biggest expense would be new canvas and you're looking at $1000-$1500. There are a few projects on the popupportal where they are doing frame off restorations and it seems pretty straight forward. It also seems like prices in california are better than the phoenix area. I missed a fully loaded taos in san diego for $1900.

Keep in mind that these trailers are pretty wide and it would be tough to get one through rock crawling trails. Having said that, I've got ideas for some armor.