What To Look For In Used VehiCROSSs

[Marlin]

The varied tire height if the tires were mismatched (even varied tire pressures & tire wear) on the rear axle would cause the limited slip to be "slipping" all the time, right? It should also cause the vehicle not to steer or track straight when driving on the road and braking for that matter. If it is slipping all the time in a straight line, that should increase the wear factor long term?

I was thinking about that, but if you look when the truck is on the trails, the only time LSD kicks in is when you use the ebrake, putting tension on the clutch pack. (Not exactly sure how it works). I do know that I had no problems, no TOD lights, no tracking problems and so on. I also know I have read about others having TOD problems, and the blame was accounted to tire pressure mismatch. I am only going by my experiences.

[MSHardeman]

With all due respect to Marlin, I wouldn't say that the VX is a time/ money hog. I'm sure, like all cars, there are are a few out there that are "lemons" (NO I'm not making Proton pun ) but for the most part if you just take a little care of them they'll last you for a long time. I've used mine as a daily driver for the past four to five years and have not had any major issues with it (knock on wood). I still have my original engine, although it does drink a lot of oil I just keep an eye on it, and my original transmission, transfer case, rear end, etc. I have repacked the front bearings a couple of times, replaced the brake pads and rotors once (by choice, the originals where fine), and replaced the timing belt/ water pump (again, by choice but that was more preventative maintenance).

Find a good one, give it some love, and it'll repay you with many many happy miles.

[Marlin]

I am not saying it has any more problems than other vehicles, just that some parts are incredibly expensive as compared to say, the Jeep equivalent. Ask those that have had fender benders, only to have the their beloved VX totaled because it cost more to replace the cladding and fenders than it does just to buy a whole new (used) one. When it comes time to replace something as simple as the AC compressor and you need to get a loan to get the part. A resourceful person can scour yards, find and modify cross over parts. That is all I am saying, do not walk into a VX naive and excited about turning heads. There is more to it than that. Hell, an OEM shock is hundreds of dollars!!!! As I said, I love my truck, I daily drive her, and I have learned more about working on cars with this vehicle than even my old Bronco II that had over 200K miles on it.

[Big G]

Guys and Girls, THANK you all for the info you have provided so far. I am not going into this with my eyes close or glazed over for that matter. Any vehicle that is > 10 years old with only 4 thousand examples running around is going to present a potential problem with parts availability and they won’t be cheep. I grew up working for my father at his gas station and have worked on cars for years and can do most things mechanically. Yes once up on a time gas stations actually serviced cars. I have owned many vehicles including a ’79 International Scout (I actually replace the body it rusted so badly), a ’65 Corvette and a ’94 Jeep Wrangler. I currently own a ’01 Dakota quad cab 4x4 which I am going to sell. I am looking to replace it. Originally I was going to look for another Jeep (yes I did love the Wrangler) however I have always loved the VX. I don’t know which one of you said “they made millions of Jeeps, but only 4 thousand VXs” it but I agree. I have been looking for several months at Wranglers and for similar $$ it appears with some patience, diligence, luck and perseverance I believe can fine a good VX (I know I can find cheep Jeeps but they are rusty, beaten and common). I am learning a great deal about the vehicle what to look for etc. thanks in large part to you all. With such a dedicated following and active owners group as this one I think most things/problems can be resolved. There are two things however, that make me a little uneasy. First, the auto transmission and the TOD system scare me some what. I can work on most anything but I have no experience with these. Second, I am 6’ 5’’ 240 lbs and I’m concerned about head-room in the VX. Anyway I will continue to look and learn. I will keep you posted on my progress and I will continue to ask questions.

THANKS Big G

[VX KAT]

Second, I am 6’ 5’’ 240 lbs and I’m concerned about head-room in the VX.
THANKS Big G

Here's some info... ...lasturbo 6'7" and galvinsc 6'8" both say they fit...
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...t=headroom+fit

Here's another thread.....another big boy..IndianaVX...6'8"
http://www.vehicross.info/forums/sho...t=headroom+fit