Buying a '90 Hilux 2.2 please help a novice

[staaldraad]

Hi there guys

I am thinking of buying a 1990 Toyota Hilux.
The owner says that a new 2.2 engine has been fitted about a year
ago. Well the first question that came to mind was where he had fitted the engine.
his reply was that the engine was fitted at a Toyota dealer.

I am a complete novice when it comes to these technical aspects, but are very
willing and keen to learn.

I am going to have a look at the machine on Saturday in Benoni.
I have got no clue as for what to look for.
Can you give me a few pointers.

Is it also possible to give me a few standard specs on this vehicle?

Tx guys, waiting for your reply

[ToyX4]

Hi Staaldraad

I see on the Autotrader that the seller states that this is a 2.2 D.
Is it a diesel engine? If so, be sure to take it for a test drive. If it is a diesel engine, I can guarantee you that you will be back,asking how you can improve performance on the engine.
Remember, these bakkies are heavy pieces of metal, and loaded with your kit and family, it WILL be slow if its a 2.2 diesel.

If it is the 2.2(4Y) petrol engine, thats another story.............................

[ToyX4]

OOPS

Ignore my post above. Seems I must get my eyes tested.

The advert states that it is a petrol 2.2.

[Family_Dog]

Hi Juan, and welcome to the forum!

Try take some pics of the bakkie, specifically the engine compartment. Usually, the suspension on these oldies, if still original Toyota, is shot and needs replacement. Prices vary from around R10 - R13k, depending on the type you have fitted. I replaced Bulldog's suspension (my '87 2.2 DC) immediately after I bought the bakkie, as well as the old 4Y engine which had in excess of 300,000km on it. The engine still worked, but had piston slap.

Look for signs of rust on the loadbin and particularly all over the tailgate, especially the hinges. Likewise, the roof gutters and "A" pillars. Don't worry about minor signs of rust, that's something that can be put right.

Take it for a drive, test the 4x4 capabilities and listen for clunks.

All in all, these bakkies are becoming Collectors' items, and if you can get one at a good price (probably R50-R55k for that vintage), it might be a good buy! Spares are still available and are far cheaper than comparable spares for Toyota's new range!


-F_D

[Family_Dog]

Juan,

Oh, by the way, before I forget. The 2.2 Hilux DC Import (as yours is) is a vehicle that you love. In the order of things, you are married to it first and then the rest of your family. It is a vehicle as solid as a tank and goes anywhere!


Riaan, put your glasses on, immediately!


-F_D

[staaldraad]

Thanx for the advice

But... Eish talk slower

loadbin ,tailgate, hinges, roof gutters and "A" pillars???

Just wanna make sure I understand these terms...

oh and btw it is going for R40 000.00 which I recon is a bargain. And besides I'm only starting with
a 4x4 lifestyle now, and is considdering a long term upgrade project.

Would you guys suggest this as a primary vehicle, doing +- 700km pm?

[Family_Dog]

Finally, this is about as close to any review that you will ever find for the 2.2 Hilux DC. Read the SA 4x4 Mag Road Test over here:

viewtopic.php?f=44&t=2109


-F_D

[dalkill]

did u buy it.
I put in an offer for R35K wednesday, but it was sold already

[staaldraad]

Hi, nope havent bought it yet. He said I can look at it this weekend. I'm going through on Saturday.
I'm so exited, but ticked off by ABSA... THEY ARE SOOOOO SLOW. Applied on Monday and the application hasnt even been processed!

[ToyX4]

Hi, nope havent bought it yet. He said I can look at it this weekend. I'm going through on Saturday.
I'm so exited, but ticked off by ABSA... THEY ARE SOOOOO SLOW. Applied on Monday and the application hasnt even been processed!

Can you even get finance for such an old vehicle? IIRC, 10 year old, 12 max can be financed.

Anyway, hope they approve your finance

[dalkill]

I just bought this bakkie....
Sorry staaldraad