? About tow vehicle behind a RV

[trooperjd]

This is for the mechanically inclined TBH members. I have located a lease vehicle that I'm considering buying (Samurai). It is very clean and in almost all original condition and been kept in a barn/garage. My concern/question is that the odometer has 250,000 miles on it. I had a lengthy talk with the owner and determined that they towed the Sami around behind their RV, and used it as a local driver when traveling. He said they are in their 60's and without A/C and a bad back, it was no longer practical for their needs.

So although the odometer shows high mileage, the interior, engine, and other mechanical aspects don't reflect that it's been driven 250,000 miles. What concerns, defects or mechanical issues should I be looking for? It's been setting up now for about 6 months in there barn as they bought a new Subaru as a tow vehicle that better meets their needs. Any help or insight would be helpful. Thanks

[trooperjd]

No one?

[perow]

I would check the gas but if it has only been sitting for 6 months I would think you would be ok

If you want a little piece of mind see if there is a shop near them that will give it a once over for you

[Luck_of_the_Draw]

Ask how they towed it. Neutral tcase and second gear should be thier answer.

[brushtrooper]

Ask how they towed it. Neutral tcase and second gear should be thier answer.

^^^ this
I would also closely inspect the suspension and the bushing's in particular for the leaf springs, tie rods and all steering components. Check for any slop in the drive shafts when in gear. Put it in gear and get underneath and shake the heck out the driveshaft. Look at the tranny and t-case mounts. Road salt damage would be a big concern to me if they went up north a lot. Look at the brake lines, how rusty are they. Look at the exhaust for excessive rust, that's a good indicator as it rust easy. If its all new look closely at the frame and brake lines. Gear oil changes would be a concern...both front and rear diffs, the tranny and t-case. Double check all the lights and make sure they work...thats alot of miles bouncing around. Check the radiator and AC condenser for road rash(damage from being towed). If you can drive listen for any whining noise for possible axle bearings going out. If you can't drive it, jack it up and turn the wheels and see if loose or noisy.

[cwbow]

^^^^good info here

[trooperjd]

Got it all good info and will check everything stated. I will be driving it for sure and maybe I find some small things and get the price down. Thanks

[jnors06]

The price would be a big factor for me. But if it passed the above mentioned checks I would be comfortable buying it. I would look at wheel bearings as well. Check the tires for even wear as well. Best of luck, samurai's are awesome. I had one for a few years and it was a blast.


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[Tower43]

The rear differential and gears probably has felt every bit of that 250k miles while it was being towed. Ring and pinion may be bad