1994 Nissan pickup - new owner ques.

[maximabebe]

I'm about to buy a 1994 4 cyl pickup 4x4. All it needs is tires and a muffler clamp. I know the seller personally so I'm not worried about gettin burned or robbed on the deal. The truck has new paint, brakes, clutch, rebuilt transmission, and 100k miles on it. The seller is going through a divorce and is willing to sell it to me for $500. Its a steal for sure. My question is what should I look out for? I am a Nissan enthusiast by far, but I have only dealt with Maximas in the past. I usually do all my own work on my vehicles aside from engine overhauls & transmission work. Are these trucks reliable? Any recalls or common issues to expect? Any help is greatly appreciated. I'll be sure to post pics when I pick it up.

[Desert Rat]

At that price you absolutely cannot go wrong.

You say the trans was redone. Run the left side of the truck up on ramps and try to squeeze another quart of GL4 gear lube into the transmission. The fill plug is a bit low on these things, causing bearings to starve for oil on inclines - possibly why the trans had to be redone in the first place.

The 4 banger has a timing chain, so no worries there. If you do mods down the road, such as lift, etc. an aftermarket steering solution should be used. In the meantime, it's likely some of the steering components are worn and may warrant inspection. Beyond that drive and enjoy. That's a smoking deal.

[Q451990]

Run the left side of the truck up on ramps and try to squeeze another quart of GL4 gear lube into the transmission. The fill plug is a bit low on these things, causing bearings to starve for oil on inclines - possibly why the trans had to be redone in the first place.

Is that just on the 4WD or on the 2WD as well?

Heath

[Desert Rat]

Good question. My only experience has been with 4x4s.

I've seen the 2wd trannies last a really long time...maybe because you're not typically climbing steep hills with a 2wd.

[maximabebe]

Yjanks for your help guys but I decided against it as I realized the frame was rotted in 5 places...I actually shoved a screwdriver straight through the rail in one part.