Opinions.....

[hiluxv8]

Gday, firstly this isnt strictly atech question but I felt it would be the best area to ask in.

Ok joining the Patrol camp shortly. I can pick up an untidy 99 GU flat tray TD 42 for around the $16-$17k mark. Around 280k, coils/shocks will all need replacing to get a decent set of tyres under it(currently has 2 different sets of wheels tyres on it), its a bit tame so 3" exhaust would be on the list, needs a viscous coupling for the fan etc, passenger door stoved in a bit etc. Not a bad bus, but needs a bit of work and money spent to get it up to scratch.
Have also checked out a neat as 94 GQ flat tray. Perfect paint and body,snorkel,ARB bar, brand new 32" bfg mt's, brand new multi stage hoist on the tray. Non turbo though so I would have to fit one, and has leafs not coils, but the leaves are all new, as are the shocks, rubbers,shackles etc. It also has 40k less than the GU. It is a very well looked after and maintained ute, price...around $15 1/2 k. Was looking at getting the GU but the GQ has me really interested, keep in mind I want it for towing a boat, shooting and a lot of beach work as well as carting a bit of gravel etc at times.
So what do ya's reckon, enlighten me.

[lolergram]

Both are good rigs in their own right.

Do you really need the hoist? Can you sell it if you don't?

Always be ready for surprises, thats the only warning I can give you.

Leaf's ain't bad if you got high loads, If you already have a nice rig for off road, then I would go with the GQ. I am not a fan of leaf's for off roading.

But on the other hand, the GU sounds like it could be a long term project. It maybe worth it, but I would personally change as many driveline components as possible (Inc. wheel bearings, seals etc)

Its a hard choice! I am sure you wont be disapointed with the GQ by the sounds of it, but if you can handle head aches I would persist with the GU.

Hope that helps!

[chimpboy]

Are you saying the GU is a factory turbo diesel? I would go for that personally, I think. Factory turbo, coils,

Of course it depends what you mean by "untidy"; if it has really been neglected service-wise, and/or thrashed to buggery, then it may not be worth it at any price.

[its aford not a nissan]

the leaf spring ute would have a heavier payload capasity than the coil ute (depending on what springs are installed) but the coil ute would be more comfy to drive

and kangaroos pigs etc can hear the turbo whitle and sends them running (if you intend on installing one )but they dont worry about non turbo diesles
my expriance anyway

[hiluxv8]

Thanks for the replies boys. The hoist isnt totally needed, but a handy bonus.
The GU is a factory turbo, is an ex log truck service vehicle, so should have been regulary serviced and is so close to the ground that you would be lucky to squeeze 31's under it. It is also not a good starter ie; winds over a bit before it fires but does seem to have a diesel leak at the pump so that could have something to do with that. So if I buy it, I would be up for, springs shocks,wheels tyres etc. Basically the GQ already has had the money spent on it,also has had a new injector pump and injectors recently. Not too concerned about the offroad factor as my main offroading isnt too extreme these days.

[mattstar]

Go the GQ, you know it's had money spent on it, and if it was that easy to repair, or well maintained the GU wouldn't be up for sale, IMHO