Early Holden Jackaroos - any experience?

[Barry]

Am looking at purchasing a 1992 SWB petrol Jackaroo for towing the trailer in the Victorian 'high country', as there are some places that Charlie just isn't cut out to tow. Besides, a cheap second set of wheels will take the pressure off Charlie a bit. Could also be what I'm looking for as a basis for my tow vehicle for the future 'big trip' as I could only see Charlie doing the Canning Stock Route 'bob tailed' and the squuze likes the bed in the camper trailer - as do I.

Here is the link to the vehicle I'm looking at: https://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=26840.0

I'd be interested in any knowledge forum members may have on the early Jackaroos, to help inform my decision.

 

[Kevin]

If I recall correctly, the very early Jackaroos were underpowered; but that was possibly late '80s. Also a 21 yo car that has travelled just 165K is a bit suspicious don't you think!

 

[Ratbag]

Gidday Barry

For towing anything, you really need the longest wheelbase vehicle you can get. It increases the stability enormously, and reduces the risk of the tail wagging the dog ...

 

[waggaclint]

Ive been in the motor trade for over 20years and IMO id steer clear of Jackeroo's hey as they arnt what id call a reliable vehicle, Your best bet with an older 4WD's is to go with a Toyota but keep in mind any old 4wd for around that price isnt going to very good hey, and will probably end up being a money pit..

 

[Barnboy]

I don't know what prices would be like with you in Australia, but the 3litre Turbo Diesel Hilux Surf is a good value truck in the UK and expect they would be less than your 4runners. Same engine as the Landcruiser 90/95 prado, or at least it is here....

 

[NachaLuva]

My opinion of Jackaroos is RUN...run fast & dont look back!

Another good option is the earlier model Hilux...almost indestructible as Top Gear proved, plus very capable offroad. The Hilux Surf is imported with no dealer support so parts can be an issue.

For the ultimate in "go anywhere", its hard to beat a shorty Patrol (or Ford Maverick). There's a few around that havent been offroad too much, steer clear of those that have. But as RB said, they dont track as well with a trailer, but think of where you can go with it...any bloody place you want!

 

[legman]

i had a 1990 LWB turbo diesel for a few years, in the bush it was very good, lots of room while still fairly compact. on road and at the beach not so good ( only time i have bogged at fraser ). gutless, rear diff developed a whine early into ownership, it had auto hubs that would drop out at the worst possible time, blew an oil seal in the back of the motor at about 80k and again at 140k, never towed with it.