Looking for a reliable 4x4 for accessing backpacking trailheads

[Scrumhalf]

I've been trying to push my comfort level a bit in terms of backpacking trails and I'm thinking more and more of trails that are at the terminus of dirt roads that either require more clearance, or can potentially turn muddy after rain. So, I'm thinking of getting an older 4x4 for these situations.

Don't want to spend a ton of money, ideally under $5K. I'm thinking about maybe an older 4Runner, say late 80s or early 90s vintage. I've been reading and everyone seems to think that the 4-cyl 22RE engine is dope and basically indestructible. I don't need anything fancy, just something super reliable. If you know anything about Eastern Oregon, you'll know that other than Nevada, it may be among the most sparsely populated areas around with a ton of BLM land with nobody for miles. Don't want to break down way out there.

Any suggestions? 22RE 4Runner sound good? Any others to consider?

[Bouncer]

My vote goes to a basic used jeep.

[Scrumhalf]

You mean like a Cherokee or something like that? Or do you mean one of those open top things - Wrangler or whatever it is called?

[Chadd77]

Cherokee with a straight 6 got awesome reviews too. I was looking at them when I got my 4X4 beater.

[Scrumhalf]

Thanks Chadd... any specific model years I should look for or avoid?

[Bouncer]

You mean like a Cherokee or something like that? Or do you mean one of those open top things - Wrangler or whatever it is called?

http://www.conceptcarz.com/images/Je...ge-01-1024.jpg

[Scrumhalf]

Nah, no open tops. Going to park the vehicle at a trailhead and go backpacking. So, i need a hardtop to lock things in.

[Bouncer]

Get the hardtop version

[blm]

Jeep Cherokee. Lots of room for stuff and you can't kill those things.

[BEAST]

Any 90's jeep Cherokee or grand Cherokee with in line six or any Ford Explorer. Forget the 4 runners they ask way to much money for what it is.

Or look in to the expedition I just bought.

By the way do not pay more than $1500 for any of those trucks.

Almost eight miles , 6000ft climb, one of the most challenging off road trails I've been up to and that $800 beast didn't even break a sweat. Had the Ac in the whole way. :grin:

http://youtu.be/38nb5P7uW58

[TrapsBrah]

SRT8 or bust.



Nevermind saw under 5k. A 90s Wrangler would also be good.

[Scrumhalf]

Are you serious? I see only junkers for 1500... How the hell are you finding them so low?

[FitnessBrat]

SRT8 or bust.



Nevermind saw under 5k. A 90s Wrangler would also be good.

Is that yours? I recall you talking about racing.

[chuckz28]

One of my coworkers had a Cherokee and had all kinds of drive train issues. He never even offroaded the thing. Ended up having to swap out the whole rear end. I don't know if it is common or not but something to look into. I've never heard much good from any Chrysler product. Maybe the grand Cherokee is better.

[blm]

My dad has 94 Cherokee on his farm that used to be a daily driver and now is used to run around the property all year round. When I was up there last year it had over 230,000 miles on it. No major repairs.