What I need to know

[CruisinGA]

found what I think is a good deal on a local '98 w/ rear diff lock and 100k miles yesterday. ($14.5k)

I'm goin to look at it later today, my dad says it seems to be in great condition, no major repairs or leaks. Has recently had the timing belt replaced.

I know little to nothing about 100's. All I know is that the rear diff lock was only available for the first couple years. Have there been any other changes that are notable or would encourage one to buy a later year model?

I hate to be the one that posts vague questions like this, but this 100 popped up unexpectedly so I haven't had time to do my research.

thanks

 

[uzj100]

I would say hold out for a 99 with Rear AC unit. It makes summers in the south much easier. The 98 LX470 had the rear AC unit.

If you do not care about rear ac, 14.5 is a great deal. Do not forget to check the VIN stickers on each body panel. If the body panels have been replaced, there will be no stickers. And the vin is etched in the metal under the sticker so if the person claims the sticker feel off, there shoudl still be a vin etched in the metal.

Have fun, 100 series are great vehicles.

uzj100

 

[1tontoy]

I have seen '98's go for under $10K with less than 100K miles. Check around a bit before you buy.

Other than Navi and rear A/C options, the trucks are all the same in terms of options. New ones have bigger rims and, i think, 5 speed automatics.

 

[jditom]

http://www.sleeoffroad.com/newbie/newbieUZJ100.htm
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[e9999]

another main diff is that they switched to Trac Con in 2000.
Some here claim the system works very well indeed, and could be better than just having a rear locker...

 

[ShottsUZJ100]

A lot of threads on this. 2000+ is the way to go and for many reasons.

Safety #1 (98-99 tippy on 2 wheels and deemed unsafe)(2000+ TRAC corrects this)

Stronger front diff #2 (many breakages in 98-99. Only one I believe..me..on 2000+)

TRAC is more capable than a rear locker in 80% (made up number ) of the places makes #3

Other small improvements get added too.

WAIT....SPEND THE EXTRA $$$z. You WILL NOT regret it...especially for safety and off-road use. I know you don't think I know much, but that's my 2 cents.

 

[cruiser4life]

There are some differences (noted above) but the 98 is a damn nice ride.

I love my 98 and 2000 and wouldn't want to give up either one, honestly.

 

[ShottsUZJ100]

There are some differences (noted above) but the 98 is a damn nice ride.

I love my 98 and 2000 and wouldn't want to give up either one, honestly.

Certainly. I'd luv any 100. Heck, I'd take a 2005 over my 2001.

 

[Campfire]

I bought our 98 with 130k on it for $14,7 out here in California with NO rear A/C. I love it and have no regrets (besides the front diff, but that's fixed). If it's what YOU want, and what YOU can afford, then go for it. 2000 & up have lots of improvements, but not for $14,700 unless you a dealer at an auction.

 

[firetruck41]

I have seen '98's go for under $10K with less than 100K miles. Check around a bit before you buy.

Never seen anything even close to that, except for the scams on autotrader and craigslist.

$14.5 is a decent price, especially with a fresh timing belt, and an accident free history.

 

[hoser]

Yeah, haven't seen/heard of any legitimate deals like that around here either.

 

[CruisinGA]

Thanks for the replies.

I did a quick search and saw that the only prices around here approaching $14.5k had twice as many miles.

So my dad picked up the truck yesterday

I like it, 'cept for the steering which is so much lighter than the heavy 80 series steering I'm used to.

Makes Land cruiser #4 for the family.

Its a sweet truck and looking forward to a lot of miles in it.

 

[SINCITY100]

I have seen '98's go for under $10K with less than 100K miles.

I will take two to go , please.... ;p