My new(to me) '03 20th Anniversary
 

I bought this back in late August and is now pretty much completed, so since I have used this site as a resource during the process I thought I'd share it with you.


2003 Montero 20th anniversary in Pearl White.
I bought this with 105k miles knowing it had some engine issues, but overall it was in excellent condition, at least cosmetically. The engine issues were slightly misdiagnosed by me and 2 other mechanics, so long story short I rebuilt the motor. I also put a new set of Kumho Road Venture AT51 tires, new brakes and rotors(front and back), new front wheel bearings, new front upper and lower control arms, new struts and shocks(KYB), new rear eccentric bolts and bushings(had to cut the old ones out), new rear catalytic convertor, in tank fuel filter, transmission filter, freewheel clutch solenoid, battery, all fluids serviced, and evap vent valve(which solved CEL issue). Other non mechanical items are new antenna mast, floor mats, and windshield. It now looks and drives as close to new as I can get it and I LOVE IT!! After being a previous owner of a LC FJ60 and 4 Troopers(3 99's and a '02) I had my heart set on a LC FJZ80, but after seeing the Montero mentioned on some LC forums I researched it further and decided this was for me and I'm glad I did. Thanks for looking!!

Welcome to the Montero family. Glad you were able to find info to do the work. Enjoy your new ride.

Thanks!! I got to say though probably the most valuable info I found on this forum was how to fix my stuck closed glove box.

I just want to add that several people warned me about the cost of parts for the Montero when I got it, but between RockAuto, Amazon, eBay, and a couple of overseas resources, the cost has been VERY reasonable for the parts. Only the eccentric bolts and vent valve were items I could only find at the dealer. A few other parts I bought from the dealer only for convenience.

Can you share what symptoms were present that required the replacement of rear catalytic converter?

Didn't have any symptoms, just seemed like a good idea to replace given age and mileage. I did have a Land Cruiser that had bad cats and it manily just had a lost of power due to blockage. If it gets that bad the engine light should come on.

Haven't posted here in a while. My Montero has been unable to drive for the past 2+ months due to multiple problems. As soon as one problem is fixed another pops up. Whenever I get it where everything works I'm selling as quick as possible. MY LAST MONTERO!! Going back to Toyota!

Loved your first post; hated your last one. :-)

Sorry to hear you're having a lot of trouble with it.

I've got a 2006 Monty Limited that we've had in the family since new and I haven't had any issues with it. I believe the 2006 has a different engine than the 2003.

Your 2003 looks good - love the roof rack. Can you list the issues?

Thanks - good luck!