new here... should i get an XLS or LTD?

[zturnidge]

Hello all, ive been in the land rover world for awhile but ive sold them and im looking at Monteros, specifically 2001/2002 XLS AND THE LIMITED. ive been researching both and think i know most differences and i think the lsd and stuff in the ltd is cool but are there anyreliability issues or weird electrical issues?
Anyway.. it will mostly be a daily family car with the bi-yearly moab trip and random mountian drives.
I will be doing the OME lift and somekind of snorkle.

Thanks.

 

[kbahus]

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/133780-Gen-3-debate-3-5-or-3-8

What kind of Land Rovers are you coming from?

 

[eurosonic]

they are almost the same price. Id go with the LTD

 

[jhill15]

I also came from owning a Rover prier to my 2003 ltd, and I love the montero! So far its been reliable...unlike my the Rover, in which I spent just about every weekend wrenching on it. If I were buying a monty now I would go with the ltd over the xls any day.

 

[clmrt]

The 4wd system in the 01-02 LTD and all 03+ uses vacuum solenoids and electronics to manage engagement / status feedback. These things fail over time and require replacement. There are 5 switches on the transfer case, one on the front diff and one assembly on the fender well plus all the vac lines.

The system will throw codes in the case of failure so you can narrow down issues.

Repair of these issues ranges from $100 for parts and labor for the front diff switch to as much as $1800 to overhaul the entire system, labor included. Parts only would be about $4-500. The transfer case has to be dropped, or at least the rear member removed and the transfer case lowered slightly, to access the 5 switches, which drives the labor cost so high.

If any of the indicator lights are blinking, this is your future.

My rear air is not working. The fan blows, but the vents are not sending air. When it warms up I'll have to dig into that. If I could avoid the rear air option, I would. The heater hoses are exposed and could lead to an offroad disaster if hit.

I do own a 2005. I do not love it yet, as I do my 2001 Sport.

 

[zturnidge]

Thank you for the feed back. I test drove one of each xls\LTD and i think i will definitely hold out for a nice ltd. Both are nice but the locking diff and leather and other little thing make the ltd seem that much better.

As far as Rovers i had a defender 4door 110 turbo diesel rhd and a defender 2door and a discovery 2. I loved them all but im ready for a change.

 

[Clem]

I test drove one of each xls\LTD and i think i will definitely hold out for a nice ltd. Both are nice but the locking diff and leather and other little thing make the ltd seem that much better.

Was that a stock locking diff in a Gen 3? That would be sweet!

 

[zturnidge]

Yes it was stock. Is that not normal?

 

[Inyo_man]

I've owned a 2002 Gen. III Ltd now for years; bought it with 29k and its got just over 170k now.

It is a great rig IMHO. I enjoy the leather...it cleans up easily.
The large sun/moon roof is nice, but it's a huge hit with my kids, who dig sticking their heads out while wheeling.
The super-select is a winner! ...love the control when off pavement.

Good luck on your search.

 

[kbahus]

There is no stock factory front or rear diff locker option in the gen3 Montero Fyi.

 

[Clem]

Yes it was stock. Is that not normal?

Not normal from what I know.

Clem

 

[Clem]

There is no stock factory front or rear diff locker option in the gen3 Montero Fyi.

That is what I thought.

 

[cnutco]

I also would spring for the LTD over the XLS any day! I love mine.

I really just enjoy the surprised look on people's faces when they make the pass after 2 or 3 attempts and I make it after 1 attempt in the Montero.

Comments from jeep owners like this is nice too.

(I am AKA, Lee Chestnut)

 

[montypower]

I'm not a fan of the rear heater. Of course, all my seats are removed. I'll be removing the entire system eventually. I love the huge sunroof. But does decrease headroom if you are camping / sleeping in the back. Overall, I'd still get the limited because I love the climate control, heated seats, leather, power seats, fancy compass and distance to empty screen.

I've had mine for nearly a year now. Fantastic truck.