1997 Montero SR Questions

[Brex69]

Hey all!
I picked up this 1997 Montero SR a couple of weeks ago, 175,000 miles.
So far I’ve replaced some torn CV boots and ball joints, next is timing belt and cam seals since one is leaking like a sieve, i purchased the Aisin kit.
My plan is to built out the back for camping, I would be taking 400-500 mile round trips .
So my question is what should I focus on to get this reliable as possible? What components are know weak spots? What spare parts to keep on hand? I don’t know much about it’s maintenance history except that the heads were replaced about 5k miles ago
I’m mostly on logging roads and out in the desert, pretty easy stuff for the most part.
Thanks!

 

[AstroQuest]

Nice find! I'd check the radiator and cooling system, as overheating can be an issue, especially in the desert. The transfer case and transmission should also get some attention fluid changes, maybe even new filters. For spares, I'd keep belts, hoses, and fuses on hand, and maybe a spare CV joint if you’re going off the beaten path. Good luck with the build!

 

[drabina]

This is not Montero specific but unless you know which parts were replaced in the last couple of years, I usually replace spark plugs, filters, serpentine belt, ignition wires, all fluids and PCV valve. All those parts are cheap on Rock Auto. Also check tires, brakes, brake and fuel lines, radiator hoses, belt tensioner, all pulleys and check for any leaks when under the car.

 

[Brex69]

This is not Montero specific but unless you know which parts were replaced in the last couple of years, I usually replace spark plugs, filters, serpentine belt, ignition wires, all fluids and PCV valve. All those parts are cheap on Rock Auto. Also check tires, brakes, brake and fuel lines, radiator hoses, belt tensioner, all pulleys and check for any leaks when under the car.

Yeah, I’m going to do all that. The only leak it has now is from one of the cam seals which I’m going to replace with the timing belt. I didn’t think of the idler/tensioner pulleys though, thanks