how much should i buy this for, if it all? thanks

[shovenose]

My friend has a Ford Explorer for sale. It would be a secondary vehicle for me. I already have 2007 Chevy Colorado for daily driver, but sometimes an SUV is helpful for life - I miss my 1996 GMC Yukon a lot - I had to sell it because the transmission broke and it cost too much to fix.

1993, 135k miles, problem is with the transmission it has not 1st or 2nd gear. It's a manual transmission not automatic. Also, there is some unknown problem with the suspension "there's a little thing with the suspension on driver side front" is all I know about it.

He wants to sell it to me for $500. should I buy it? I don't know where to get replacement transmission and I don't know if i could do it myself. How much do you think a shop would chagre to fix it? Never driven a stick before but that's beside the point

Thank you for your time!

http://i.imgur.com/VVD9abV.png

 

[RangerX]

If you can't swap in a replacement transmission yourself, pass on it. A shop would charge you more than the vehicle would be worth.

 

[natenkiki2004]

Sounds like you should pass on it. That's kind of a typical price for an Explorer with serious issue but if you don't feel confident in dropping the trans yourself and investing in tools and parts, skip it.

 

[Number4]

Parts vehicle only.

 

[shovenose]

Is it hard to replace the transmission? I have done simple things like change oil, replace starter, change spark plugs, etc.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

 

[turboranger91]

It's not "hard" by any means... But for someone with just a basic knowledge of mechanics, it might seem so. However, for $500, it might be worth it to pick it up, find a tranny, and use it as a learning experience. With the help of YouTube... And this forum, of course... You should have it replaced in no time!

 

[the_don]

Being a second car it would be great to learn from. the transmission can be a pain if you have never done one, but being a manual w/4x4 its a good learning experience if you have the time, money, and room to let it sit for some time.the suspension can be more of a hassle with rust freezing everything up but most can be done with a fairly well stocked tool box, except the rivets that hold some of the brackets on(even i hate pulling them). but for $500 the engine is worth about that.

 

[shovenose]

No 4x4. It's a 2WD.

I'm really starting to think not to buy this. I might be in in over my head a bit - would love to learn, but going from starter on Chevy to transmission on Ford just seems like a big leap. Just seems like a good deal and it's a good friend of mine so I know the paperwork is good and I'd like to help him out.

 

[natenkiki2004]

but being a manual w/4x4 its a good learning experience

Take a look at the pic, it doesn't have hubs so it's a 2 wheel drive.

OP, if you have the funds and want to learn and don't mind putting more $$ into it than it's worth (most people here do) then use it as a learning experience, it'll be invaluable for that.

However, if it's junky inside and has a LOT more issues or severe rust underneath, pass on it. You can shop around and find a 4x4 model if you look.

 

[turboranger91]

I agree. In my opinion, I wouldn't even consider it unless it was 4 wheel drive... But that's just me. If you have no need for 4x4, it may still be a go.

 

[Number4]

I've put more parts/money into my '94 than its worth. But I plan to keep it forever and it'll end up paying for its self.

I'd say shop for a year that has all that you want in it. 4 door or 2 door, 4wd or 2wd etc.
I do love that mine is a stick over an auto. It's also been in the family since it was special ordered back in '94.

You can find these in that range here and there.