Looking for a reliable 4x4 for accessing backpacking trailheads

[bob3dsf]

OK so I'm not trying to derail the thread. I just wanted to give a shout out to all the Oregonians! I'm originally from Oregon City. Lots of family moves and the army have me in NC now. I really miss the PNW! I was a kid, was in scouts, and really had great times in the woods out there. Great memories with my Dad fishing at the Collawash River, Multnomah Falls, Timberline Lodge. Damn, I gotta try and get a trip for the fam out there. My wife has no clue about how awesome that area is.... Anyway. Good luck with your search, CrazyHorse. Take it easy, everybody....

 

[MSinDC]

100% go with a Toyota 4x4.

You stated that you want a 4x4 to push your limits - If you're buying an older truck you should definitely (in my opinion obviously) get one with proven components.

My first truck was a '93 4x4 Explorer that I got with about 87k miles on it. Had problems with the transfer case, had to replace clutch (some may argue regular maintenance, I thought it was too early when my brother's tacoma went 220k on factory clutch), A/C went out, and then right before I got rid of it some seal on the transmission failed and it leaked transmission fluid all the time. I only took it to about 110k miles too.

Contrast that with the '01 4runner that I had for 7 years - Not ONE issue and I bought the thing with 117k miles on it. Took it to 210k miles and sold it (in one day) for $4,000 (this was a 4x2 as well).

You get what you pay for. If you want the 4x4 to be there when you need it get a Toyota.