Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) What should I look for?

[DRiddel]

I have found a 94' auto 2wd that I am thinking about buying. It has a new transmission, a brand new paint job, and it suppose to run pretty good.

The only thing I am worried about is 230,000 miles on it. I am going to use it as a daily driver for about 4-6 months than turn it into a race truck.



What should I look for in the engine and drivetrain compartment to make sure it will last for a while? And what kind of tests can I do on it?



Thanks for the help.



Also they want $5500 for it. Is that a good price if it checks out good?

 

[1BadDad]

Sound good to me...

the price is right. what was the truck used for. My 2wd was a sales vehicle and never towed anything. I got it at 115K and bombed it at 230K it itnow has 290K. Monday I bought another 95 4x4 3. 54 reg cab with 230K. I will be swaping all parts and DTT trans to it. I want to talk more about your 2wd. Got to go, but please PM me if I forget to reply again!

 

[DRiddel]

Where should I be looking for oil and water leaks? And when test driving the truck what should I listen for (like poping or clicking)?

 

[Jschafer]

If it looks like it has been taken care of those miles are nothing.

you might take the intake hose of off the turbo and see if there is any slop in the impeller and look for dirt or oil.

I always look at the oil change sticker if there is one that can tell you a lot sometimes

Check the color of the coolant

good luck

Joe

 

[DavidGardner]

Mightwant to look for oil leaks around the front timeing cover. If you find a crack or hole it could have lost the KDP. Also check to see if it has been tabbed or pinned. If not that would be the first thing I would do to it. Its easy and lots of info on it. Just do a search on KDP. Good luck. Sounds like the price is right and if it has been well cared for I wouldnt be afraid of it.

 

[1BadDad]

more to look for...

Just got back from opening day Test and Tune! Its been a long winter!

I ran my fastest time ever! 14. 431 1/4mi. +. 173 reaction 95. 30mph. 60ft 2. 20, 1/8-9. 27,-76. 16 mph!!!! I did not put my usual 500lbs of weight in the bed and still got good traction on my 285's. Launched at 1300rpms about 3-5lbs of boost.

I also did 2 runs in my other 95 (all stock) 19. 737-63. 55 Mph/ 20. 454-60. 40

Thats about to change!



Ok just a little excited.

When on your test drive, power brake it and make sure it has a locker. I suffered with PEG LEG ALITS for 6 years. I spent 300$ on a used factory locker, 180$ on bearing and shim kit, and another 300$ for install. Thats a lot of money you could save if it is already there! If it is a one wheel peel you will have ZERO traction once mods are on. Been there done that. Look at the afc housing and see if the factory break off screw is missing. If so someone may have had a fuel plate in it ate one time. But that is not too bad if so. Check turbo play (verry little side to side is ok but front to back is sloppy) Good brakes always help! Any other Q's feel free to PM

Good Luck!!

 

[DRiddel]

Thanks for the replies guys. I am going to look at it today.

 

[CEdwards]

For that money I wouldn't be afraid of it at all. My 94 has 205,000 and runs like a top. Had 180,000 when i bought it for $6500 with 30,000 on rebuilt trans. Mine has spent its life pulling loads and I overload it frequently and have never had problems. I just keep up the maintenance and replace simple things that wear out. I am looking for a 12 valve 5 speed 4 wheel drive if any bodys got one or wants to buy mine.