Buying Advice: 98 LX 470

Hi Everyone! My names Daniel. Primarily have a background in sports cars and street driven SUVs, but I've got a need to get in the dirt

After lengthy lurking and searching, I think I'm ready to dip my toe into the LC/LX world. (Apologies if there is an official "advice" thread, but I couldn't find something suitable to post this in!) - My search has brought me to the following LX 470, which seems solid. I'm a relatively handy and mechanically adept individual, so I'm actually looking forward to some of the small projects and maintenance needed, but need the forum's advice on the condition and selection of this example. Here we go:

1998 LX 470
304,000km (188,800 miles)
Black over Tan
3rd Row Seat
Middle Console Fridge
Secondary 45L Fuel Tank
Hot Weather spec, so no heated seats and no secondary heater circuit

Known issues:

Rust at some panel ends and underneath
Slight Sunroof leak (probably the seal around the glass)
A/C not running (may just need a charge)
Header/Intake leak (could just be the gasket, but may be manifold)
slight exhaust leak on the center exhaust section (small whistle apparently, due to cheap aftermarket exhaust section)
AHC weeping in right rear (would be replacing both L+R for peace of mind)
Front right wheel bearing going bad (would be replacing both L+R just to know they're set)

Currenly at 13k USD price wise

Overall the truck has the usual wear and tear the mileage would bring with it, in addition to some issues cropping up that seem to be easily remedied. I'm primarily worried about the rust, as it's my first foray into rust removal/mitigation. What's your take on the condition. Buy or run? As you can tell, I'm all about the preventative maintenance, which seems to be key in keeping these beasts running right. Just trying to know what I'm up against, with the help of the forum. Looking forward to being a part of the IH8MUD family!

 

[DBV]

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rust

 

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[shane431]

Price seems high to me based on all of the issues it has. I think it should be less than $10K given its maintenance and rust.

 

[Sanney22]

I would say no more than 5k if you have a good budget go on bat buy one from west coast and ship it biggest problem with these is rust

 

[Crush 4]

I agree on the comments on the undercarriage rust. Any repairs you have to do will always be a battle and a fight to get bolts off, cut, whatever just a pain to work on.

 

[Tradbowcruiser]

Way too high. I would move on.

 

[DBV]

Thanks for the initial replies, I'm unfortunately based in Europe, so my market isn't as competitive as the US. (Currently all other LCs in this price range have double the mileage or are 2 seater conversions needing to be refitted with rear seating.) I know mileage doesn't mean much on these trucks, but seems this is the lower end of the pricing when it comes to the 100 series around here. I'm figuring I can scoop it up for like 10 or 11k, and then put another 4-5000 into it, mitigating rust and doing some repairs and preventative maintenance. But if you guys think it's too far gone, then it might be best to leave it be.