Help the Newbie to buy

[bassnailer]

If you are really keen on getting a good vehicle, it might be worth your while to fly down here to vancouver, buy one from a reputable dealer, fully serviced w/warranty and drive it home. You can't put a price on peace of mind, imo.

[rainypotato]

it's a 2.5

I want it...but, must replace belt eh? hard to do? I'm mechaniky

[thedjjack]

Belt is not hard to change, but it is more then a timing belt

YOU MUST DO:

-new timing belt and balancer belt (balance belt will take out timing belt if it breaks)
-new tensioners on both belts (new belts with old tensioners worthless if bearing goes)
-new oil seals front of motor 4 (oil on new belt not good for belt you in there do the seals)
-new water pump/thermostat (front of the motor is apart change the pump and thermostat)
-radiator rebuild or replacement (System is drained make sure the rad is up to need to cool)
-new radiator cap (Logical)
-new rad and heater hoses (heater core) (system is drained logical)
-set valve clearance (mechanical cam need set)
-new filters fuel/oil
-injector/fuel pump maintenance (Diesel it is all about fuel delivery)
-replace v-belts for accessories (front of the motor is apart change belts and keep the old for spares)

Figure on around $600 in parts and liquids (Plus radiator rebuild/clean/replace)

I did all this when I picked up my Delica myself. Like I said it is a relatively easy motor to work on. Remember to check the rest of the van over....

[rainypotato]

Btw, i bought it, and have since added 60 000km from the yukon to west kootneys and in between. I bought it in a trusting and informed manner, sight unseen, frrom craigslist...talked them down to an even 6g, and drove away happy. Took it in the summer to rising sun for appropriate touch ups. The sellers were totally out to lunch, not knowing what size engine, etc...and I was disappointed that seat belts were missing, but it all worked out.