Suggestions on "beater" 4x4

[FixedGear]

I'm looking for a relatively cheap 4x4 truck or SUV to use for getting around logging roads mainly on US Forest Service lands. I don't plan to do any crazy off-roading, but some of the roads can be in rough shape so ground clearance is good. I've been using a new Ford Explorer with city tires and it's been fine, so again I don't need anything too heavy duty. Also, I will be purchasing and using this in Arizona and for the most part won't be dealing with mud, etc.

However, I really need something I don't have to worry about damaging, so I'm interested in a "beater" that is less than $3000 USD or so. I would be driving long distances, so reliability is very important. I do not carry many people, so I don't need anything large and in fact smaller would be better. Can anyone recommend a good vehicle that would fit my needs? I've been looking mainly at Jeep Cherokees, but am open to pretty much anything. I saw a Dodge Raider the other day that looked nice, but I don't know anything about those. What about geo/chevy trackers, or maybe even some small Hyundai SUVs (do those suck???). A small and cheap domestic pickup truck would work great too but I'm not too sure what to look out for.

Thanks

[Mibz]

Originally posted by FixedGear
I've been looking mainly at Jeep Cherokees That was going to be my suggestion anyway, haha.

[ercchry]

http://mohave.craigslist.org/cto/4445085832.html :rofl:

http://mohave.craigslist.org/cto/4462035543.html

http://mohave.craigslist.org/cto/4443106050.html

http://mohave.craigslist.org/cto/4454471725.html :burnout:

[BerserkerCatSplat]

Originally posted by Mibz
That was going to be my suggestion anyway, haha.

Yup, for a cheap, solid SUV that you can bash around without feeling guilty, XJ or ZJ is the way to go if you don't want something with a carb.

[Kloubek]

Originally posted by Mibz
That was going to be my suggestion anyway, haha.

Mine too. Rugged suspension design for offroad situations, plus the WJ's have fairly luxurious interiors (considering the age), and really good power from the V8s. (Catsplat suggested ZJ's, but I think you can get a WJ for close to your budget in reasonable shape)

Drivetrains are generally very reliable, save for a sensor or two. Electrical systems can have gremlins, but that won't keep you from getting from point a to b.

[ercchry]

oh! i changed my mind :love:

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/cto/4458289972.html

[CapnCrunch]

Cherokees have a pretty reliable drivetrain. Everything else on them will break lol, but nothing that should leave you stranded in the middle of no where.

I honestly wouldn't trust any $3000 vehicle to get me home safely from a remote area.

[Sugarphreak]

...

[Twin_Cam_Turbo]

Pathfinder or XJ get my vote having owned both now.

[4runneron36s]

I'll sound like a broken record but I suggest Toyota pickups/4runners or Land Cruisers (FJ/FZJ 80s, the latter come with factory equipped electric lockers as an option). I'd choose a Toyota over say a Nissan mainly due to them enjoying better (more and cheaper) aftermarket support. Granted, you'll never get anywhere too fast in a Toyota, but you'll get there guaranteed.

Up to 1985 Toyota trucks had a solid front axle and 2.4 cyl (113 hp!), 1986-1995 trucks had IFS and manual locking hubs (easy retrofit) and either the 2.4 or 3.0 (latter is a weak gas guzzler) and a solid frame, 1996 (Tacoma) had IFS but with a much improved 3.4L V6 and auto hubs only.

Or hell, get a 4WD Corolla wagon and cruise in style!

[civic_stylez]

Im on my 5th Jeep XJ. For budget and reliability, they really are the best option. Parts are super easy to find and are pretty much compatible from mid 80's to 01. They handle like a shopping cart and are thirsty but ive had mine in some brutal situations and it has never let me down.