I have a 1990 Montero that definitely needs some work. I recently took it to the Mitsubishi dealership service center hoping they would be the best people to fix up the car. They were unable to find quite a few of the parts and were uncomfortable with working on it (totally understandable given the age). I was able to drive the car from CO to MD with no issues, however, it began to have trouble starting once back in MD. According to the dealership it needs a new mass airflow sensor, valve cap/rotor, pulleys, spark plugs, hoses, new windshield, and other minor interior work. While the quote they gave me wasn't as expensive as I was expecting, it turns out the difficulty is finding the parts. Ultimately I am wondering if anyone has any advice? I love this car and its vintage vibe (working cassette deck, faux wood paneling on the dashboard) but is it worth the hassle? I'm not even sure where I could sell this car, or if there are enthusiasts that even want a project car?
I greatly appreciate any tips/advice you can offer! Thanks

 

Dealerships are notorious for wanting to work only on the newest vehicles. Warranty work and regular oil changes is their bread and butter. To get this vehicle to work you ether need to do some of work yourself, or find an old service station and a tech who worked on carburated engines and knows how to fix/tune up old cars. Based on the list you provided, to get this thing going I would start with valve cap/rotor, plugs and wires. In addition try to clean MAF instead of replacing it first. As far as where to get parts - wrecking yards, ebay, and google are your friends. It doesn't sound like there is something seriously wrong there mechanically. I'm sure it is fixable with a little effort.

 

May have to part ways with my 1990 Monty. I hate the thought, but after searching and calling across the country, I'm becoming aware that the relative rarity of a 1990 Montero means less incentive to make parts. When you couple that with our current national inability to get/transport goods, it's a perfect storm.

My immediate need is for a driver's side exhaust manifold so I can pass the smog check. It runs strong otherwise. I'm in So Cal and it has served as a faithful camping and beach buddy. I hate to part with it but I've only found one seller (other than ebay...get to that in a minute) and while they have an active backorder, the ETA is projected to be as long as 6 months.

I found a couple manifolds on ebay, but the part numbers don't match up even though the item description says it's a fit. $300 for a non-returnable part that MAY fit is not a risk I'm willing to take.

Making a short story even longer, I'd like to sell it for parts. Any guidance or opinions?

 

Something to consider when thinking if you should sell or keep your old Montero:

https://worldnewsera.com/news/entrep...ollectors-out/

 

Amscott.......Please post some pics of your 90 Montero. I am in Va., and might be interested in it. Or did you decide to keep and do the repairs?