Possible new VX owner, any advice before I buy?

[RamAirZ]

Hey guys, I'm going to look at a 99' VX tomorrow and I thought I would join up here and search around a bit. I was wondering if there are any major concerns I should have before purchasing it. I've been reading alot on the engine failure thing and it seems so hit and miss. This particular one has 134K on it, seems to be in good shape from the pics. They say the only things wrong with it are the AC clutch and the power windows seem to be somewhat off track (they roll down but when rolling up sometimes you have to help guide them, thinking a window guide issue or those tabs) and that it runs and drives great. I'm gonna ask them if they have ever replaced the motor and if they are the original owners tomorrow. How much do you think this particular VX would be worth with the mileage and if these are the only issues? I know how much they are asking and think it's a steal but want some opinions (don't really wanna post the price and have someone find it and snatch it out from under me haha). I'm not new to Isuzu, I had a 97' Rodeo for awhile with all the typical mods (manual hubs, lift, 33's, lights/rack/sliders etc) and I loved it! Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated. Here are a few pics of the VX in question and a pic of my old Rodeo (I frequent Planetisuzoo alot):

http://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/RamAirZ/vc1.jpg

http://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/RamAirZ/vc2.jpg

http://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/RamAirZ/vc3.jpg

http://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/RamAirZ/vc4.jpg

The Rodeo

http://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/RamAirZ/Gorman%20Isuzu%20Trip/IMG_2655.jpg

http://i583.photobucket.com/albums/ss272/RamAirZ/1997%20Isuzu%20Rodeo%20Pics/IMG_8143.jpg

[JoFotoz]

Hi

Jofotoz here
I'll happily go with you tomorrow to check it out..I live in Pacific Beach

Check your e-mail and VX info Private mail...I contacted you.
Jo

[RamAirZ]

Thanks for the offer Jo, it's actually in Florida. We are moving there this month, just bought a house. I WISH I could use your services. You could always bring yours by here so my wife can check it out lol So she can see one in person. My friend John is going over there to walk me through it and take a ton of pics and video and drive it. Anyone else in the central florida area that wants to go with him is more than welcome to

[RamAirZ]

Answered a few of my concerns with a little more time on the search function, but still any beginner VX advice would be great. Hoping I can see Jo's this week too! Any opinions on what you would pay for this VX?

[VX KAT]

Here's some more info, sorry if it's stuff you've already read. It's a good overview of key issues to look into.

http://vehicross.info/forums/showpost.php?p=190554&postcount=13

http://www.vehicross.info/forums/showthread.php?t=17399&highlight=bug

[VXorado]

I would ask $4500-7000 depending on what mods have been done. I see a hitch and side steps which aren't very "big" additions but the rims are aftermarket and look good. The window tab problem is very minor but the ac problem might cost you some $$. Its hard to put an exact dollar amount of its worth without seeing it in person but VXs usually sell between 5-13K.

[RamAirZ]

Ya that's what I was figuring, it is below those figures you posted lol. They need something bigger. I'm really hoping all goes well tomorrow because she'll be mine! I can get a whole compressor for $200 with clutch so I'm not too concerned about it if that's all it is and I can recharge the system and install everything myself so that saves $$$. Thanks for the links KAT!

[Knivx]

Off topic but Sweet Rodeo!:yesb: I'm looking to pick up another zu for the crazy offroad truggy build I've been thinking of!

[RamAirZ]

thanks! I was planning to make it an SUT (cut the roof off the rear), build a roll cage that covered the new open area and move the spare tire on it, had planned on a LSx V8 swap retaining the MUA5 manual transmission. But alas, I traded her to a guy for an F350 crew cab dually to help haul our family and all our stuff in a move. If the VX pans out, it won't be going anywhere, and if it doesn't, I'll still end up with a Zu, most likely another Rodeo like my old one.

[RamAirZ]

ok, I have one more question (well 2). I have been getting varying opinions on Manual Hubs and a TOD off switch. I ran Aisins on my 97' and loved em', now I know there would still be some power being sent to the front but some people said they had problems with no power and handling other people said they loved em'. Also, on the TOD off switch, someone says they broke a front shaft with it, I haven't found that thread and why would that happen? Mainly I'm thinking around town (my commute will be about 30 miles all highway to and from work) and what not having the hubs unlocked and the TOD switch off. I plan on installing the hubs anyways to help in the event of a CV failure. Also, how does the VX tow with TOD, would pulling a trailer behind one hurt anything on the TOD (thought I read something on here about towing with the TOD, maybe it meant the VX being towed). Down the line if I get it, I will be getting rid of the TOD when I do a driveline swap anyways, but that will be a long time away so just seeing what I have to work with, thanks! Would pulling the front driveshaft mess with the TOD at all? I've messed with alot of 4wd's, but never a TOD truck.