My brother is looking for a vehicle to drive to work and back, and he has found a 1987 Isuzu Trooper for 700 bucks. It is running, and it is 4x4, 4 cylinder 5 speed, and it has the Chevrolet-style transfer case where you just pull the floor shifter into position with the auto hubs, and I was wondering if anyone knew anything about these or if they knew where I could get information on them. It looked to be in good shape, but I'd like someone with a little more in-depth knowledge of these to maybe give me a little heads-up on them. Anyone?

 

My Dad had a mid-80's model Trooper, and it had the exact same drivetrain that you described, 4 cyl-5spd. All I can tell you is to stay away from the 4 cylinders. My Dad's trooper had something wrong with the cylinder head. It kept bending valves. And the mechanic he took it to said that this is a common problem with Izuzu Troopers with the 4 cylinder engine. Well, after he got it fixed, six months later the valve in the cylinder head was bent again. He paid $800 for a new head and valves the first go-round, and needless to say he got it fixed again and sold it! Take this as a warning...

 

I can't give any in depth stuff but my brother-in-laws parents have a '87. It's the four banger with an auto. They bought it new and have spent thousands in repairs over the years. It has been off the road for the past few years. The last I knew it was still sitting in the driveway rotting. I guess they can't sell it unless they put a couple thousand more into it. I guess its cheaper to let it rot.

We've also got a customer who has one and she has said that it's had a lot of problems.

For under a thousand it might be ok if it runs and drives, but I don't think I'd pay any more.