any disco vets on here willing to let me call them tomorrow afternoon (central time) to walk me through what to look for.
please help

 

https://landroverforums.com/forum/sh...ad.php?t=26352

Just like looking at any other used car, try EVERYTHING and make sure it works.
Take it to a mechanic when you found one you are serious about and pay for a stem to stern inspection.

 

Test drive every single one you're interested in for a few hours.
A short test drive won't reveal some of the larger problem.
Read through Spike's post he linked you to. It will help you greatly.

 

First of all - buy a DI.

Drive it a highway speed for at least 15-20 minutes.

Do a simple compression test, leak down not necessary.

Check oil for coolant, coolant for oil

See if it has head gasket replacement documented. If it doesn't, count on doing it within a year.

See if the front drive shaft has been rebuilt. If it doesn't plan on doing it asap.

There is more as others have mentioned. These things are selling cheap - for a reason. Do not pay big money - no matter what. Also, do not be compelled to buy on the spot. These things are not going fast. Sleep on it and share what you find with the forum.

Also, folks sometimes lose their common sense. Does it need tires? $500

Does it need cats? $500-$1500 (DIY to shop_

Paint? who knows how much!

Look, take it in and look at some more. I would not buy tomorrow.

 

What part of the country are you located in? The DI and the DII both have their pluses and minuses. Like has been said, it is easy to make an expensive mistake. On the other hand for the prices that are being advertised these days, the most that you will be out is $5000 or $6000. Spend $100 and have a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Do your best to find a good solid garage queen that has had the proper maintenance, you will thank me later. Nothing is worse than putting out a ton of cash for the truck and then having to spend a couple of grand just to get to break even. All the best, good hunting. Phil

 

Buy mine!