2003's turn themselves inside out into a jeep cj7

 

ha

 

I have an '03 that I got a ridiculous deal on and couldn't pass up. I knew about the oil pump issue, and mine is in the possible range, but it already has 113k+ and is still going strong. If you find an '03 that you can afford that has 75k+, you should be ok as the oil pump issue will usually show itself before 65k, least that's what I've heard. I love my '03, and wouldn't trade it for anything except #1 a defender 110, and #2 an '04 Disco, as they had the CDL.

 

Got it, Beware the ‘03

How about towing long distance? Like 2000lbs over 1000 miles (race car). I know that gas is going to suck, but does the truck pull like a champ or would it be excessive ware and tare?

 

I have yet to tow with mine since I haven't got it wired yet but the Rover is rated to tow 5500 pounds with trailer brakes. Without brakes max trailer weight is something like 1650 pounds. A light trailer shouldn't really be a problem for a Rover. Remember to always tow in 3, not D. Towing in D will destroy the overdrive and possibly the whole transmission. Learned that lesson the hard way even though I knew to not tow in overdrive. My 4-speed auto became a 3-speed. These trucks are heavy and underpowered so even without a trailer i wouldn't say they pull like a champ. Just don't be in a hurry is the best advice I can give when it comes to towing.

AS for the 03's, higher mileage is not a bad thing. A vehicle with 90 or 100,000 miles is beyond the point where most have problems and either have already had the engine replaced or it just isn't a bad engine. If you find a good deal on a 03 definitely investigate it. There are exceptions to every rule.

 

just get one...

 

Patience grasshopper

 

go with your gut mang

 

The Disco will pull a trailer all day and not even think twice. It can actually pull 7700lbs, but it is only rated for 5500lbs here in the US. Same truck, different ratings.
Like AK said, use 3rd gear and take it slow, set the cruise at 60 or so.