Can it be done for $1500?

[mike_A3]

I want to buy / build a '90s 4cyl 4x4 for mostly nostalgic reasons. I'd use it for mostly just driving to work, and camping style two-tracking. I had an 89 Mazda 2.6 5sp, and loved it until it died. Now I'm an adult et all, and am willing to give up $1500 and my garage space to a play vehicle. I don't care about mileage or shiny paint , I just want a solid short bed 4x4.

I'm thinking something along these lines from a quick google image search.

From my other automotive project experience I know it would be cheaper to start with something someone already modified, compared with buying the parts myself.

So can it be done for $1500? A good running 92 Toyota with a 3" lift on 31s with some electrical issues and a strange steering wobble is pretty much what I'm hoping for. My local Craigslist is empty right now.

[CreeperSleeper]

1st of all, you don't need a lift to run 31" tall tires... That being said, yes it's possible but you will have to wait awhile.

[mike_A3]

Thanks for the info, I appreciate the reply. After looking at pictures I guess I had more like 36s in my mind, don't know why I was thinking 31s.

I'll keep my eye on craigslist, i'm going to have to sell a couple of bikes to get this thing so time is something I've got.

This looks about right, but I don't think I'd be wheeling it like this, I see more dirt around here.

[mike_A3]

Almost had it today, thought I'd have to wait longer. Decided to go with a 4Runner because while a pickup would be sweet for me, an SUV could be sweet for the family. There isn't much "me" time available anymore, and it'd be fun to take the kids off-roading in a couple years.

Had a deal ready for this one at $900 locally, it ended up being an automatic.

[CreeperSleeper]

I wouldn't worry too much about getting an auto. They are strong and make it really nice crawling, especially on a budget build where you can't afford gears.

[mike_A3]

Good to know. It really would open me up to more trucks, like 10x more trucks.

Looking to Cherokees now too. I really just want something with 4 doors, and as much "trail beater" capability as possible.

[mad haggis]

If you want 36" tires you could go 'yota - but I would look more in the lines of an old Landcruiser, like fj60, instead of the pickup. Stronger axles including straight front axle, straight 6 motor with lots of torque, creature comforts and ability to sleep in it/carry lots of camping gear (and keep it dry).

PLEASE don't go Jeep - Dana 30 and 35 axles are notoriously week for anything over 32s unless you have lots of experience wheeling and know what you're doing to a T.

I personally LOVE my Nissan. The rear axles are as strong as a Ford 9" and many Pathfinders came with rear disc brakes. Isuzu Trooper ('85 - '91) is also a GREAT candidate. Has 4 wheel disc brakes (starting in '87 or '88) and the rear is just as strong as the Nissan rears - but like the Nissan you would need to SAS it to be safe running 36s. I have had 3 Troopers and loved them all - they really hold up to their name. But for the record, the GM made 2.8 v6 that was optional in them are crap. 2.6L fuel injected 4 banger is where it's at as far as Isuzu.

My Nissan has a Dana 44 front with a locker but nothing fancy. Leaf sprung front, and like 4" lift out back. This was a garage build, before my brother opened up his auto shop.


This baby has about $1500 into it - including initial cost of the vehicle (free + about $180 in top end engine gaskets)

But not everyone is capable of doing all that work. http://pirate4x4.com/forum is where you wanna be for straight axle swap info.

In short, if you aren't willing to tackle a SAS I would highly consider the Landcruiser or a Dodge Ram Charger / 1/2 ton pickup (any pre - '93 will have a solid front axle). Otherwise, anything that is comfortable, has a good strong reliable powerplant and came stock with 4wheel drive is a fine starting point if you are willing and able to do the modifications necessary to install a solid beam front axle.

[mike_A3]

Going to check out / buy this one later today. Anything I should be looking for? Seller seems like a stand-up guy.

http://northeastohio4x4.com/smf/index.php?topic=560.0

[DEZL_DUB]

My Brother's truck.

When he first got it: $1000




After a few little changes:

[VertigoGTI]

Here's my $900 beater. 1990 4Runner, 3Slow manny, Yakima roof towers/crossbars, tire carrier, and hideous wheels. Spent a weekend fixing seized windows, sunroof, rear window, and 2 rear doors.

Frame was FREAKING SPOTLESS. Not even surface rust.

[mike_A3]

I ended up picking this one up for $2k. I justified the extra $500 because it already has a real lift (RE Superflex 4.5), and I trust the guy who did the work.

[zane!]

A Chero-car is a great entry level wheeler. Stick to 33" tires and smaller, eventually throw a locker in the rear and wheel the piss out of it. I've spent a ton of time in them on the dirt and they are fun rigs.

HOWEVER... If you ever try to go for bigger axles and big tires down the road (like 37's and larger) you'll tear the unibody apart, but for now you'll be just fine. Just remember that it's not a real full-frame truck and treat it as such.

[mad haggis]

^ what he said ^
You could have done worse
Not sure what to think about that winch mount though. If it only fastens to the stock bumper I wouldn't trust it at all.