Quote:
Originally Posted by gamefreakgc
It's nothing that will cost $1000's to replace but you will find yourself working on it. If you have the space and tools, great. If you do not, I would suggest looking for a lower mileage one if you can afford it.
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It's not miles that's the issue with 3rd gens, it's the time since they were built. Arguably, a low mile example could be in MUCH worse condition than a high mile simply because maintenance isn't done "because it's low mile", but all the rubber hoses/seals/bushings still age.
And it cost me about $3000 to baseline my '99, doing ALL of the maintenance items that are known and common issues... and that's just parts costs, I did all the labor but changing the tires and an alignment. All bushings, new suspension, radiator, timing belt, crank and cam seals, valve cover refresh, vacuum lines, trans filter, etc... Just a mechanics mentality, I'd rather do it up front then find it was an issue while out and about (plus, this is my wifes DD, you do *NOT* want your SO to be stranded if you enjoy a calm and peaceful life). I did splurge on suspension with the Bils 6112/5160 combo, and didn't opt for the Cheapest tires out there which accounts for $2k, but the rest of that cost was nearly all OEM parts.
OP, so long as you know what you're getting into and are willing/able to do the work yourself, you'll be fine. If not, you might want to look for something Newer. I'm in GA, and the 4th gens (v6, 4x4, mid 200k miles) are half the price of the 3rd gens at about $4k. Newer vehicle means less important to do any/all undocumented maintenance Right Now, plus more $$$ to do that work. I think they fixed the LBJ issue for that gen too...
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'99 Limited 4x4, Millenium Silver ~
Maintenance Thread