Newbie- Buying a SSRG 3.0TD hilux - What do I need to check when collecting/test driv

[javnas]

Hello everyone,

I am going to collect a 1993, 85000 miles hilux surf which I purchase on ebay. Item number if you cut and past on ebay might see the car 300028548095.

I have heard there are lots of stories about overheating, head gasket issues and various other niggles. I have £1441 on ebay for it. Do you all think it is a good price? I would love to know what I need to check when test driving this vehicle.

Thank you all and god bless. If I make the purchase today, I will post some more threads about my experience on driving my first surf. Cheers.

[mickey]

head problems usually manifest on the 2:4..it was an early design fault on some models..the replacement heads are fine and once sorted tend not to give any further grief.

the heads can go on the 3ltr, naturally..but don't concearn yourself about it..gaskets might let go on the 3ltr too, but i'm not sure if that occurence is greater than with any other vehicle..its certainly not an epidemic.

the radiators, in my experience, tend to be a little weak..so look it over for pin holes oozing coolant, usually at the top or along a seam..if you hear clunking from the wheels on full lock, ignore it..it'll be the bump stops..usually is..other than that, the usual precautions i guess? check the oil for contamination, and the coolant..

you'll only read the bad stuff in the technical forums..its just the way of things..it worried me when i bought mine, three years ago..i wondered if i should have got a pajero..i checked out an owner's discussion board, the first post i saw read "if this piece of junk costs me any more"!..kinda put it into perspective..don't get it out of context..the surf is a well respected workhorse..i love mine to bits..in fact, the initial "infactuation" stage of my relationship wore off a great deal faster than it did with my surf..its still the sexiest darn thing i ever saw..