help needed buying a surf

[rods]

i will be buying a surf hopefully in the next 4 weeks and need some simple advice (nice and simple) about buying one. searched through the threads and more confused than when i started . any plain english advice would be helpful thanks

[stara]

put simply, get the best condition 3.0td you can...
(if your finances can't stretch to this, then a 2.4td with receipt for head change)...
i would personally go for the top of the range SSR-G, (it has recaros and a nice contrasting black trim),...
try and get a decent warranty with it...
check all fluid levels are correct,..
check engine runs smoothly with no excess smoke,..
check for excessive play in the steering (do it while stationary, and rock the steering wheel, there will be some play due to the 'steering box' design, but no 'free' play, however this is another simple fix, see forum for idler arm maintenance)...
check gear changes are smooth,..
check there are no unusual clunks or knocks from the drivetrain when braking/reversing/cornering (a metalic grinding sound when on full lock is simply the bumpstop caps worn through or missing, a blob of grease cures this)...
check handbrake and brake operation (should pull up in a straight line with no noises,)...
make sure 4wd is operating, (it is hard to check this, best way is to getit offroad, and accelerate so the rears spin, do it again with 4wd selected, you will notice a difference, don't use 4wd on tarmac on 1st or 2nd gen's) ...
make sure ALL electrics work inc windows, central locking etc,..
check air con works...
see if the truck has been undersealed, if not, check for excess corrosion underneath...
Above all If you have any doubts, then walk away, there are lots of surfs for sale. good luck.

[rods]

thanks

thanks for the advice simon. am going on tuesday to have a look at 2, the wife has aggreed to come with me so half the battle won if i find one i like i will let you all know

[TAZMAN]

Make sure its Green over Silver too.

[That Ruddy Squirrel]

Make sure its Green over Silver too.

Nah MUD over Green over Silver


Trev

[rods]

nah

i prefer blue myself (comment from wife "green clashes with her leopard print clothes" )

[marky]

i prefer blue myself (comment from wife "green clashes with her leopard print clothes" )

GOOD MAN.

[Koi]

WGC just up the road from me, where are you going to look at them??? I am in Welwyn on Tuesday so if its near I could take a look.

[rods]

thanks

hi nigel . i will be going to redhouse in ware . 10 mins down the road on the a414 through hertford . i have seen 2 down there for £5995 both in blue on friday ,but he was closed. i have read through the dealer experience and neal said stay away, but i met the guy roughly 10 week ago before doing my back in to buy one and he seemed very helpful and knows what he is talking about, where as molewood garage owner was the total opposite. if you want to meet up before. reply back and we will arrange a time or whatever. thanks

[Koi]

hi nigel . i will be going to redhouse in ware . 10 mins down the road on the a414 through hertford . i have seen 2 down there for £5995 both in blue on friday ,but he was closed. i have read through the dealer experience and neal said stay away, but i met the guy roughly 10 week ago before doing my back in to buy one and he seemed very helpful and knows what he is talking about, where as molewood garage owner was the total opposite. if you want to meet up before. reply back and we will arrange a time or whatever. thanks

You should have a mail with details on it