Hey guys, Im considering a 1990 Montero sport 4x4 V6 w/165000 miles for short money for a second vehicle need it to last for a few...Saw Winshawns posts he owned a 90 maybe its his old one... any advice...thanks

 

Maybe, mine had only had synthetic oil from day 1. These Monteros tend to start burning oil due to weak valve stem seals. The oil usage can get pretty severe over 1qt per 1k miles. Also they will tend to start smoking. The oil usage is pretty hard to measure when just test driving it. But, try this.

1. Go on a test drive with the guy. Ask him when he changed the oil. Ask him if it uses oil. Then check the level. Depending on his/her answers and whether it is low, you may be able to get some info. When talking about oil people dont always think you will actually check the level.

2. Get the truck warmed up and then let it sit, idling for about 5-10 minutes. If the seals are bad the truck will tend to start smoking from the tailpipe.

3. Drive it check for smoke when you let off the gas and let the engine slow you down.

 

Thanks for the info I will do that.Its the original owner shes says it never let her down.Say there is little to no blue smoke .Do you think it would be ok at 165000 its a V6 Auto its real clean cant resist....thanks again

 

They have been known to go over 200k. I saw a guy that had 310k on his. It is an automatic or stick? The only real potential problem with the engine is the valve seal problem.

 

Also check that they've done their timing belt. If not, factor in the cost of doing it.

As for the smoke test, rev it to 3k after the 10 minute idle period to get a good idea of the valve stem seal issue. They can be replaced w/out completely tearing down the valves. You have to use the rope/lp air track.