Quote:
Originally Posted by Citroënbender
He (apprentice) mostly keeps his hands busy, I will aver. 
Toerag appears to have a decent hitch fitted already, that’s a headstart.
Not a fan of Discos, seen too many through work. They’re not bad but always seem to be in need of just a bit more attention or time than they’re booked in to receive. Plus engine bay access over the front and wings is awkward. Gut feeling is the VAG you linked, does better on slalom tests.
For a bit, we looked like owning the big 7-series that came in with busted belt and pulleys - but they eventually ponied up the cash and took it away. That probably would have towed nicely, too.
I’m interested to hear of the inadequacies of an XJ Cherokee, they always appeared stout enough but obviously a bit underbuilt. Wiring issues were usually what saw them and the YJ Wranglers in for attention.
Definitely no love from me, for the 4M40 / 4M41 / 4D56 donks. Reckon they’re a bit sensitive to oiling issues for a motor you’d think to be rugged. |
I don’t know, I’ve had a couple of XJs, and my mate has as well.
Only drama we encountered was over heating, due to blocked radiator that were probably too small. No warped heads like most things alloy.
Although I’ve read the cam position sensors are the most likely thing to cause them drama (never experienced myself).
Benefit of them is their transfer case. Option of rwd, awd, 4 hi and 4 low with centre diff lock.
But at the end of the day a 1600kg XJ is never gonna be a safe bet towing 2.3 tonne.
Problem with sub $10k Jap SUV is they’re all flogged out, they drive like shit and they have sub par inefficient engines.
Exception might be a high mileage pre facelift LX470 but you’ll probably need to spend money on the AHC hydro suspension and timing belt, and it will drink 20l/100km.
ML320 Benz can be had for $3-5k.
Might need to spend some money on preventative maintenance but everything is cheap out of the USA.
I think at the end of the day any cheap aged SUV under $10k is gonna need attention to be a reliable long term proposition?