I am new to the 4wding game and was wondering if I could get some thoughts and opinions on the L Series as a beginners 4wd? I dont know a lot about the L Series other than they seem to be unbreakable and look tough with a lift kit and mud tyres
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Is there much of a difference between the late 80's or early 90's models? ie any engine issues to be aware of. What are the things I should look out for when buying? Should I buy manual or auto?
Ill be using the car for weekend surf/camping trips and a bit of town driving during the week.
I think they're a great base to start with. Loads of knowledge around in terms of mods etc. I prefer the 87 onwards models - the dash layout is better (buttons etc) and I prefer this style of grille too. Small things really.
Manual all the way - but makes sure it's a dual range, the post 87's only come in dual range manual. Go the wagon and you won't look back to a sedan!
Rust - under/around the windscreen is really the main area of concern. Behind the spare wheel under the bonnet along the seam that's spot welded, you'll see what I mean. Behind the rear wheels usually rusts out too.
Other than that check all the usual things you'd check when making a purchase. The engines are pretty much the same thing across the board. The MPFI (EFI) can be found in the touring wagons and is worth the extra effort to get one of these (both the touring wagon and the MPFI).
They're a wicked 80's car with loads of character and appeal, I love mine, have modified it massively, driven it hard, 4wd'n it hard and fixed it many times. I feel that I'm now at a point where it's all going well and maintenance shouldn't be so much of an issue (was on a uni budget so maintaining larger things wasn't a priority until they broke or were annoying me enough to do something about it).
If you look after your subi it'll look after you.
A couple of things worth doing when you get your L series. New radiator and thermostat will avoid any over heating problems you may experience later on. Over heating usually results in a blown head gasket. A blown head gasket results in a lot of heart ache. Walk away from any vehicle with symptoms of a blown HG unless you know what you're up for - then use it as a bargaining tool
They're certainly not the fastest vehicles on the road but they're loads of fun! And as Dulagarl found out last week, they've got a larger boot than a forester
Cheers
Bennie
