Hello all. Am considering buying a 4x4. But only have up to about 4k to spend. I have had my eye on a 97 ford explorer with 229k. The owner says it has never been taken offroad and seems to be in great nic. Am I wasting my money? Would any buy a 4x4 with a budget of 4k. If so where should I be heading to get a reliable one.
I was in your position a cpl of months ago. Everyone I spoke to told me NOT to buy an "Exploder". Apparently they have troubles with the gearbox and you are looking towards the 5K mark for a new one.
What type of offroading are you planning on doing?
Pajero's seem to be going real cheap atm
4k will buy one but expect it to be a bit rough around the edges and to do a bit of maintenance on it
all depends on what you want it to do, just like boatsas to what you buy
I would spend the $100 odd & have the RACQ give it the once over, just in case it is OK
Thanks guys. Iam only planning to take it on a few beach runs and it will be used to tow a boat. This is the one I have been looking at. http://www.carsales.com.au/all-cars/...d=11FF03F2F47C
mmmm exploder I know nothing about them in the 4WD department other than another AF'er drives one hahaOriginally Posted by duncan mcwhirter
Regarding the "never taken off road" bit.
Take the valve caps off the tyres and see if any sand comes out.
Surprising what some people miss.
Rod.
My dictionary defines green as ‘unripe, immature, undeveloped'. Perfect description.
Most political parties are seen as interested in what the voters think, the Greens are seen as thinking the community should be interested in what they think.
Navara Nugget's mate. A couple of mates have them absolutely gutless but are great offroad and reliable. You could probably pick up a 93-97 model for that price. Steer clear of the Ford's look for an early model Luxy or even an early 'Cruiser or anything from the Nissan stable.
Cheers Benny
Yeah, negatory on the Explorer. No specific reason but you don't see many around and they're definitely not renowned for their reliability, fuel economy, offroad ability, looks, etc etc you get the point.
Personally I would be inclined to find the best diesel Toyota 4x4 I could for the price. If you want a wagon you should be able to get a half decent 60 series, early 80 series or 4runner. Otherwise an early 90s troopy, cruiser ute or hilux.
Otherwise you should be able to get a decent pajero for that price. Personally I would never buy a Mitsu, but for that money it could be a good option.
What you're looking for is a pretty crappy looking car with a decent engine. Be prepared to look past a few dints and scratches. Diesels tend to last longer than petrols so I would go diesel regardless of the make/model. Look for the lowest kms possible and a good service history is worth gold, even if it's done 350k+ kms.
Hope that helps.
matt
G'day,
A major fleet (no names) bought a few. One was driven over corrugated roads for a few hundred KM. It destroyed the shocks and spring mounts and cracked the chassis. Warranty was denied on the basis of abuse (they are not meant to be taken off-road). Claim was presented to insurance who deemed it beyond economical repair and wrote it off. It's a dud!
White Pointer
Hi Duncan
Yes the explorer was known in the industry as the exploder,as previously mentioned they had huge issues with the driveline .Sourcing parts for them can be a very expensive and difficult exercise.
That type of budget if you are looking for a wagon type 4WD with plenty of comfort and capable off & on road then IMO the Nissan Pathfinder is a real option. Coils springs all round make them quite comfy reasonably economical with a steady foot and no shortage of both new & used parts if required.
I own a Pajero but in that price range i wreckon you are a much better chance of getting "more bang for your buck" in a Pathy than Pajero.
Cheers
Steve
DoNotFeedTheTrollsAandBelligerent
Duncan,
I would recommend buying a gq patrol. You will be able to get one for that money. If you go to the auctions you may even be able to get a diesel. Either way you wot be disappointed and it will out perform on sand and offroad if towing. I have had one. It may be a little thirsty but fishing and 4x4 ing was never going to be a great savings plan.
Marty
best 4x4 by far the old GQ
I have one and am very impressed with the value for money
great ride in the coil springs
cheap to modify as needs be from mild to wild
2nd hand parts and after market parts every where
Thanks for all your insights! It is great to be able to come on hear and get some sound advice about something Iam only just learning about. It seems a patrol,toyota or pajero semms to be the go. I will keep you all posted. Happy driving
By the way- could anyone tell me where the best auctions to go to.
Posting Permissions
Reply With Quote