Looking at a Montero..questions

5x5

Observer
Found a '98 with the winter package, 106,000 and looks to be in good shape body wise. Dealer states it smokes on start up (valve guide seals). Their only asking $2300 though. I'll run a car fax and have it checked by a local mechanic. For the price it seems to be a good deal even having to possibly do the seals. Will it hurt the engine if I wait to do them? Also, I'm looking at 33" tires. Will the 200hp SOHC be okay with that size and the 4.2 R&P's? Thanks!
 

off-roader

Expedition Leader
Sounds like a decent price.

Yes you're right, it's due to the valve guide seals. What that can damage is your catalytic converter which isn't cheap to replace if you go OEM or OEM equivalent. Depends on what your state requires. Myself, I still passed smog so my cat is ok but I definitely need to do the seals since I regularly sit in traffic and take off in a cloud of smoke. :(

33's will be fine but it also depends on your 'buttmeter'. Some prefer quicker acceleration that you can get by going to 4.6x:1 or 4.9x:1 r&p's.

Be sure to check that 4wd engages & disengages properly. If it doesn't it usually just needs to be cycled into and out of 4wd a few times.

HTH
 

5x5

Observer
Thanks,
No smog issues in MI. Also, if I want to go with 16" wheels do you know the bolt pattern, etc....?
 

off-roader

Expedition Leader
6x5.5"
Also need to make sure the center bore is large enough for a manual hub should you elect to upgrade to one for off road use. IIRC, it's ~4.5" diameter center bore.:ylsmoke:
 

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