Think about Tracker purchase

[lws]

Here I go again thinking about a Tracker purchase and have some questions
It is a 2.0 man trans 4 wheel drive with 190k miles on it 1999 model
how reliable are the engines still good with that many miles?
it has a grinding noise that sounds like its in the transmisson is this a common problem?
Am I crazy to think about this?
any idea of gas mileage

i am also looking at a wreck damaged 01 tracker v6 auto with some lighter front end damage

any ideas on which way to go?
I know this isnt lots of info but any advice would be helpful
thanks lws

[Max]

First plug in your location under "USER CP" and give us an idea on the asking prices of these vehicles.

[lws]

The bad transmisson one is asking 1200.00

The damaged one is asking 1600 but told me he will take 1000
it has 159k miles on it v6 auto

[Max]

You still haven't provided your location so that we can discuss undercarriage and front cross member rust-out issues (or not).

One vehicle is standard, one is an automatic. Is that a deal sealer or would you drive either trans?

The 4 banger w/stick = 26-28 MPG

V-6 w/auto= 20-24 MPG

Pics would certainly help.

Maintenance reports? Inside condition? Outside paint and trim?

You're asking a lot from those of us who have little to go on.

[fordem]

The engines (both the I4 & the V6), like most engines are quite reliable - once properly maintained - however, they are both susceptible to timing chain issues if maintenance was neglected.

Transmission problems are not particularly common - grinding noises are bad news, with the possible exception if they occur only when changing gears - that could be nothing more than a worn clutch, which will not disengage properly, or even driver error for someone not familar with standard transmissions - the clutches are not that expensive to replace (this may differ due to labor costs in your area) - but, there's no way to tell from a distance.

I would suggest having both vehicles evaluated by a friend with some mechanical experience.

[lws]

Sorry for the lack of info I live in VA rust is not usually and issue but I will check close for that. Paint and interior is avg on both for the year.
The one with front damage needs 1 fender hood bumper headlight and grill
and a little tweaking on the radiator support. Gas mileage is prob the most important to me other than not having to work on something all the time.
Sorry i dont have pics right now. Thanks for your help let me know if you think
of any more questions lws