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buying a hilux what to look for?

Posted: Mon Jan 09, 2012 7:38 pm
by inbits
G'day guys

I am looking at a hilux this weekend its a fairly stock 1990 single cab with a 2.8 diesel n/a with approx 350000 klms

2'' body lift and 2'' spring lift and some 31'' all terrains

I was just wanting some advice on what to look out for usual things that wear out or can cause trouble


any info is appreciated

cheers

Re: buying a hilux what to look for?

Posted: Mon Jan 09, 2012 9:06 pm
by georgey
rust under the carpet/vinyl in the foot wells

Re: buying a hilux what to look for?

Posted: Mon Jan 09, 2012 9:21 pm
by DUDELUX
Rust also in the A-pilllar, and along the drip rails in the roof too.

Best way to know how healthy the engine is, get a compression test done.

Take it for a run, find a dirt road, put it into high and low range, listen for any noises coming from the gearbox, transfer case, or anywhere along the driveshafts/front axles, etc.

Re: buying a hilux what to look for?

Posted: Tue Jan 10, 2012 3:22 am
by howsie
Check when the timing belt was last done.as well (should be a sticker on it) these need regular attention.

Re: buying a hilux what to look for?

Posted: Tue Jan 10, 2012 6:30 pm
by inbits
Was planning on doing a compression myself and the usual mechanical stuff will check for
Rust in the places you guys have mentioned.
So there aren't many inherent problems other than the usual maintenance and rust issues from neglection

Cheers

Re: buying a hilux what to look for?

Posted: Tue Jan 10, 2012 10:54 pm
by DUDELUX
Check for leaking front axles, any fluid coming out of the hubs, or the inside of the wheel near the brakes, will indicate that you need to replace the axle seals. Best to fit new seals and bearings while its open.

Apart from that, and whats already posted above.

Re: buying a hilux what to look for?

Posted: Thu Jan 12, 2012 9:35 am
by inbits
What's the lowest acceptable compression for the 2.8 before you need to worry ?

Re: buying a hilux what to look for?

Posted: Sat Jan 14, 2012 10:24 am
by inbits
Had a look at it today very happy with it.
Only rust i could find was the door and its about 50 cent piece size. engine very strong with good service history no oil leaks
new suspension
new safari tuff clutch
new brakes al around
new tjm bull bar
spotties
gearbox had a noise on deceleration but he has it booked in for a replacement this week so should have it next weekend :)

Other than that very neat truck and drove well

cheers for the help guys

Re: buying a hilux what to look for?

Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 3:52 pm
by Bearded1
The main thing to look for if you are thinking about buying a hilux, is a Landcruiser :D