Here are my choices, can you guys help me out?

[esoxangler]

Been looking around for a few weeks now to get an idea on prices. My preference would be a F-150 or Ranger. Don't think it will happen, I am not real happy about a vehicle with 150,000 miles on it. That is about where my price range would fall right now.

I am looking at an Explorer (Taking Randy's tips on which year to buy...Thanks Randy!) Or a Jeep Cherokee OR Grand Cherokee.

This vehicle will be my everyday vehicle....need one with a luggage rack and tow package. Gonna get a rack for coolers and such but it has to be removable. I am looking at stuff like consumer reports and looking into reliability. Got some questions:


It seems like the explorer is more reliable than the jeeps. You guys find this true?

Is there enough clearance with an explorer when you get into those deep tracks?


Both of these vehicles are really not the best fit for me....but I am desperate to get sand access. I figure I make at least 30 trips to AI a year, so I will get use out of the 4wd.

[Sam]

I bought the Grand Cherokee strictly for beach access and my only complaint is the low clearance. It's got over 160k on it and I've been out there more times than I can count. Never been stuck and have never failed to pull anyone out. Recently, I hit a buried log during one of my night trips from the south end and screwed up my tie rod. Other than the annoying wining noise that I have yet to get fixed, it's been great. Trust me, it has taken a beatin.

[ffemtreed]

I have a Jeep Liberty that I use on the beach and as my everyday vehicle. I installed my own tow package (hitch) for less then 150 dollars. Also bought a Yakima rack for the top of my jeep (thanks to Sam for the inspiration).

This summer I am going to get a rack for the front of it from Gene.

More than enough room and drives like the wind on the beach. Havn't had any problems with the deep tracks.

Only complaint about the liberty is it sure likes its gas.

You can find some 02 liberty sports for cheap and maybe even some 03's.

[Steve]

Explorers do fine out there too. Plenty 'nuff clearance.
I'm not fancy on Chrysler products (Jeep).

[igormothra]

get yourself an old CJ to leave in berlin as your beach vehicle!!!!!

[esoxangler]

Thanks for the help guys! Oliver I have thought of that idea. It does interest me, thanks. I got another couple of months to figure this out...gotta have something by springtime.

[Dave]

I have two explorers, a 96 which other than a tranny has been excellent, and a 2005 which has also been excellent, no problems with clearance issues, although if you get a newer model, make sure you let the tire pressure out to at least 15 to 20 psi especially if your loaded down with weight, Learned that the hard way with the newer model. or put slightly wider tires on it. I know ford's very very well so if you got any questions pm me. I used to work for a ford dealership and I am a professional lead aircraft mechanic now, but I still love workin on vehicles.

[esoxangler]

Thanks Dave!

[TOO EZ]

Explorer!

Whatcha looking to spend?? I just saw a 2000 Explorer for sale on one of the forums for like 7K.

[esoxangler]

I have been told to stay away from that model year explorer. Thanks for the heads up though!!! I got a little time to mull all this over and then I will be at AI!

[Randy Stinchcomb]

whatever you get Phil, make sure its'a FORD 'cause I know where you can get parts for it CHEAP

Rangers and F150's are great trucks, also look at some 2001/2003 AWD Ford Escapes, they should be down in price and Barbs works great in the sand(and snow ) older Exploers 1991 to 1996 are good but as I stated, stay away fro the 1998 to 2000 wth the 4.0 SOHC*, now one's wth the 4.0 OHV** engine are OK

* SOHC = single over head cam
** OHV = over head valve

and if you do look at a Ford product, get me the whole Vin # and I'll run it and see if anything bad comes-up about it

[mdram]

but if he gets a mopar he wont need parts as often

[Steve]

Originally Posted by mdram

but if he gets a mopar he wont need parts as often

Sure won't..
Will just need the WHOLE engine....

[esoxangler]

Thanks for the offer Randy!