My $2,500 cherokee I bought October 2019 has made it from Chicago to Oklahoma 5 times, Chicago to Kansas once, Chicago to Lake Superior 4 times, Chicago to Kentucky 8 times, and about 2 dozen other multi day trips. I will NEVER waste money on something just because its "newer"
You must have typed this comment into a time machine....or the commenters are talking about 2wd single cabs. I'm with you....Anything with 4wd is going way over value. These guys are throwing out 2005 prices.
I really like these Top Gear / Car Trek spinoffs where you get $XXX to buy a car and make the best of it. The part that really makes it is the chemistry between the “contestants”. Thanks for this entertaining video!
@@irvinglechuga2067 especially before 93’ when they were all Mazda, I had a 93’ B2600i and it was one hell of a little truck, I’d take another in a heartbeat.
Ya something felt a bit off lol, unless he was a fan of TFL and decided just to let it go. Those Rangers are pretty stout with a stick, unless the jackshaft is going on that 4.0l
Had a couple of Ranger extended cab 4x4s... Last was a 92 with the 4L and 5 speed manual. Drove the shit out of it for 200k kms with literally zero issues. When I got rid of it the clutch was about ready to need some love. But Jesus even driving it hard it was in way better shape than that B4000
Haha, this reminds me of my jeep. About 16 months ago I picked up a 2000 Jeep Cherokee for 500. I fixed the leaking ac by replacing the low side shrader valve. I fixed the suspension (2 broken leaf springs and 3 blower shocks) by putting in a rough country 3” suspension lift and springing for the full rear leaf springs. Couple bits here and there and I’m still in it for less then 1400.
Oil leak on the Blazer is the engine oil cooler line. $45 part takes about 10 minutes to replace it for anyone who is wondering. If you ever run into this issue buy GM Genuine/AC Delco, the cheap aftermarket ones fail.
@@user-dd3pl9ii2h They's hardy little vehicles, its basically just an S10 with the cab reaching all the way to the back. I've had my '99 for 6 years, bought wrecked for $250 in 2018. She is a mean little machine. I've put mine through hell pulling trees and running trails, pavement, mud, snow, etc. Cheap interior and I hate the Space-Age vaccum operated 4wd, but a tough little bugger of a vehicle all things aside.
I love how creative and fun you guys are getting with your videos. I love the energy and positive mood of everyone. And I really just enjoy everything about TFL. Great video guys! I had as much fun watching this as you guys did making this video.
They were taking the piss out of Andre for the brown truck, but in general, seeking out a Mazda B series or Ford Ranger generally seems like the smartest choice of the three. That said, Nathan's Blazer actually seems pretty nice.
@@superfakegamer6359 the 3.0 is a slug, had a 2001 with the 3.0 and it was sooo slow. The 3.0 has been known to get cracked heads, i had both crack at different years and had to buy rebuilt heads. Hopefully you have better luck, the 3.0 aka the vulcan was used in the Taurus around that time also.
I had a 96 Blazer. Same color and 2 door. She made it to 250,000 miles before the transmission gave way. Loved that little truck. It was a Swiss Army knife.
My family's first car was a 2002 Grand Cherokee with the 4.7. It honestly was a great car, but not without its issues. Yes, it lasted to nearly 300k, but that was after blowing 2 motors, having to get the diff done 3 times, the trans on its last legs, and various other electrical issues. I do wish we kept the car as it was better than some of our later purchases, but Chrysler was not known for using the highest quality of components. Still miss it, had great memories in that car.
I had had an 89' S10 with the 4.3 and used it to pull my 18.5" boat monthly with no issues. Probably had around 250,000 miles on it before it got totaled in a wreck when my dad was driving it. I would love to find another in good condition like I had but in a 4x4.
I had an '02 "Xtreme" street machine 2 dr Blazer with the Vortec. That was the world's easiest paralell parking vehicle with 100" wheelbase and rwd. It was a cool car and peppy, although guzzled gas for how big it was.
That 4.3 is one of the most dependable v6 engines ever made. Was even used in industrial applications. It never got the recognition it deserved cuz chevy always mated it with questionable transmissions.
@@toddbob55 I had a 1997 bravada with the 4.3 vortec. The truck was a total shitbox, but the engine wouldn’t die. Only reason I got rid of it was because the “AWD” system was failing and the body was rotting out. The engine (with over 250k on it) however was mint. Sold it to a junkyard for $250 and he was ecstatic to get the motor out.
I'm working on a 1989 gmc s15 with the 2.8 5 speed in it 140k miles everything works good needs alittle body work I'm going to clean it up and do a v8 swap just Saving the money now
Love this kind of series where they go out and buy vehicles the average Joe could buy. Would live to see one where they go out and buy a fun, sporty car with a manual for under $10,000. Maybe a Mustang, BMW and a 240Z.
Oh man! Nathan that Blazer reminds me of the 2003 GMC Jimmy 4-door 4.3L V6 4x4 I helped a buddy of mine buy, $1800 with 165K miles and everything except the rear wiper worked! (Wiper fluid would leak into the car from the rear hatch seal, the line was busted somewhere in the seal) other than that, the truck was PERFECT! 4wd, power everything, including seats! This thing was FULLY loaded...Unfortunately he had issues with his license so he couldn't register it for quite sometime and had no where to store it, so he had to sell it. Wish I hadn't purchased my Tacoma a month earlier because this would've been an EXCELLENT work vehicle! Hope the person who got this knew what a gem this was!!!
They got a 4.7, which has all the downsides if the 4.0 and no reliability to boot. Btw how was yours slow? My 97zj cruises at 85 when I have to, gets mad at 90
@@RichTexas82513 my 4.0 wasn't fast but definetly not slow. Plus they have more torque than hourse power and rev super low. Nothing about them was sporty you got soild axles and a 4.0 for a reason haha.
@@RichTexas82513 the 4.7 was reliable. i have a few buddies that have a few 4.7s that have all hit 300k without issue. the problems with the gen 1 units (all issues were fixed with gen 2 but those were never put into this body style jeep) all came down to owners and lack of maintenance. they dropped seats because owners let them overheat, and then sludged up as owners also never did oil changes.
So Tommy I saw the codes that the tech pulled up. You have a torque converter code that is why you have a transmission overheat code. Torque converter is slipping. Needs an overhaul. 01 is a 5 speed automatic. 2001 Jeep turned on the 5th speed on in 01. You can have 5th turn on on a 99-00 by having the dealership flash the pcm and tcm
To find a Blazer for $2200 and fully functional? Sheesh, that's absolutely INSANE. At least based on the used car market of the west half of Oregon. Then again, I've also ran into 1980s vehicles going for over $3k-$4, and mind you, your average everyday models, too. Even seen one priced at over $8K, and it was your average Camry from the 80s. No jokes. Always enjoy these series!
Prices on used vehicles have gone way up in the past year due to the lack of new vehicles available on the market due to supply shortages, so the used car market is now seeing price increases often doubling, and quadrupling what they're worth, and people are stupid enough to pay those prices.
Holy crap O.o in Tennessee the Chevy and the jeep would have been less than 2k and the ranger would have been around 3500$. I'm a huge S10/Sonoma fan because of how cheap they are around here. My daily is a 91 4.3 5 speed that I picked up for 400$
I like to believe that people aren't really dumb enough to just pay scalper rates for used cars, it's just that they either don't know anything about cars, or were forced into the market by an accident.
Well Andre is my boy in this one. I once owned a '94 Mazda B4000 SE and absolutely loved it! I paid $500 for it and that little white meat nugget got me everywhere. Kick ass my friend!
I am a Ford guy outta those 3 but that 4.3 is a hella reliable engine and I wouldnt be surprised if the blazer wins this series. I didnt notice that these vehicles were purchased at least 2 months ago and had reviews on tflclassic till it was recommended.
Front tires are cupped on the B4000...usually worn front ball joints, camber bushings, tie rod ends. Normal things on those TTB front axles. Common issues on those trucks was the front autolocking hubs...many people just replaced them with Warn, or Mile Marker manual locking hubs. The other common thing was for the transfer case shift motor to stick, and either not engage or not disengage...mostly due to lack of use.
Funny, loved it! I drove a 94’ Mazda B series and my wife drove a 2000 Grand Cherokee in college! This is a trip down memory lane for both of us! Brought smiles to us as we watched! Looking forward to the rest of the series!
This is Awesome!! I like series like this! The Blazer is probably my favorite. That WJ is actually kinda rare! The vast majority of the 4.7s came with the Quadra Trac NV247. Very few 4.7s came with the Selec Trac NV242. I think it was only available in the Laredo trim.
@@coltonrussell8705 Awesome! I never new the V8 WJs ever came with anything other than the NV247, until a few years ago. Only ever heard of a few Laredo's though.
Great episode. It’s fun to see you guys getting old beaters and having so much fun. It’s also reminiscent of car trek with Ed Bolian, Freddy Hernandez, and Tyler Hoover. Fun stuff. Keep up the great content.
I had a 1996 Mazda B4000 that had over 300,000 miles on it when I was unfortunatly involved in an accident and it got totalled. One of the best trucks I have ever had. The 4.0 V6 was a very strong engine. With basic mantenince it still ran like new even with that many miles on it.
Greay Video! Kinda reminds me of the old Grand Tour/Top Gear Challenges. Showing the buying process was a nice little authentic touch. Don't sell the series short put the camera guys on "Embedded Mode" for the good ball busting. I feel Nathan has the winner here.
The WJ with the 4.7 actually has the 45RFE transmission which is known to be very durable. It's not the old 42RE 4-speed that comes with the 4.0 that is soo fragile.
Glad you pointed it out, I kept thinking that when they kept calling it a four-speed. Also, I did have the four-speed behind the 4.0 in my 97, when I got rid of it at 165k it still shifted perfectly.
all 3 Grand Cherokees/Cherokees I have owned all had 4wd problems and wiring problems, all around 100K miles. The 4.0L is great but the wiring is crap. My 4.0L / 5 Speed Cherokee was the easiest to fix but it still required a lot of wiring work.
This is a great series in the making. Looking forward to it. However, the misinformation surrounding the Grand Cherokee is embarrassing. For people that make their living(s) from vehicles, you guys should know better. The WJ (1999-2004) only had three motors available. The legendary, bulletproof I6 4.slow, mated to the POS, junk ass 42re transmission. The 4.7 V8 and 4.7 HO V8 both were mated to the rugged, 45RFE/545RFE. The FIVE speed transmission was actually pretty damn tough. Still in use today in 2021. Just needs to be maintained like any transmission. So, all three of these fools were wrong. They all were undoubtedly making fun of the POS 42re transmission, not the 545RFE, so they were mistaken. Anyway, small details. I'll be here all series, as a passionate WJ owner, I'll be here dishing out needless info.
I'm a recent WJ owner, bought an 04 Limited (4.7) from auction on a whim. Spent much time and money doing a lot of fixing and upgrading, intending to flip but ended up liking it, so I kept it and let my wife start driving my 2017 Mazda lol My WJ is a 2WD, but as a Texan (DFW area) there just simply isn't much need for 4x4 for me. So far, really enjoying it, especially the V8, it has been many years since I had one.
The weak point with the Mazda's and Rangers back then were the automatic transmissions....with the manual in Andre's truck he'll be fine but I'm betting the auto locking hubs for the 4WD are trashed.
I love this series! However, one note, the transmission (45 RFE) behind the 4.7L V8 in the WJ is beyond bulletproof. Nathan is thinking about the transmission (42re) behind the 4.0 inline 6. That one was weak sauce.
The 4.7L V8 isn't that great either...the 4.7L HO was supposed to be a much better option. The 42RE is really hit and miss it seems. I had 232k on my 96 ZJ 4L with the 42RE, and never had any issues, did some heavy towing, lots of offroading and overheating the transmission, never had any problems. My 98 ZJ 4L 42RE on the other hand that was a street queen had all sorts of issues, lost the front transmission seal, shifting issues, slipping, etc, at 159k....Loved the 98 ZJ because of the rear limited slip differential and the selec-trac 4WD, but that transmission sucked....they must have changed some internals on the transmissions in later years because my 96 was bulletproof.
The 4.7 will blow up before the transmission goes. I drive one daily as my yard vehicle at a jeep shop in pa. But right now the front spring perch is rotting out. That's the wjs main flaw is the damn rubber over the spring perch
@@karentheblazer the 4.7 in ours had a cracked block. 30k miles later and the transmission blew. I actually just got finished replacing it. I hope we get a lot more good miles out of it now that half the drive train has been replaced.
Tommy got a good vehicle this time, thought he'd show up in some 4 Wheel Drive Suzuki or Fiat we never knew about. I'll definitely give him what he deserves 🎊👏👏👏🎊👏👏👏🎊
The Fiat Panda 4x4 is so underrated. Top Gear raced one against Range Rovers. It lost the drag race (1200cc vs 4000cc) but beat the RR on every off road stage.
@@ADirtyScrub I thought that reprogram was only for the later WK's? The 4.7L HO would be good the standard 4.7L wasn't great, the HO version from what I've been told has some beefed up internals, too bad they skipped the whole upper end for beefing up since they love to drop valves, valve seats, and blow off rocker arms.
@@wildbill23c The V8 WJ came with the 45RFE. (4 speed, Torque rating of 5, RWD, fully electronically controlled) it was unique because it used 3 gear sets instead of the normal two that most 4 speed autos use. That was because it had a second 2nd gear. Or 2nd Prime it used only for kickdown shifting. AKA passing gear. Because it had 3 gear sets it could be reprogrammed to make use of a 5th higher gear. This would be referred to as a 545RFE. I own a 4.0L WJ with the 42RE, which most consider an inferior and weaker trans than the 45RFR on the V8, due to some manufacturing defects I'm the design on the 42RE. If built right it's not a bad transmission though.
Back in 1996, a chevy blazer was my favorite vehicle. That changed when I saw a trans am for the first time lol. But the 4.3L blazer is probably the most reliable one there. The 4.0 wasn't bad but the 4.7s were pretty bad. They are better suited for the Cherokee and Dakota but are terribly slow in a ram. My 04 ran accelerated ok in 1st gear but was terrible after that.
I'm betting that those garbage auto-locking hubs are shot...pretty common problem with them, and many people just replace them with manual locking hubs.
Ahhhh 😌 the blazer! I used to have one a black 2001 2 door blazer with the 4.3 and 4X4. I really miss it, I sold it back in summer of 2017 with 170,000 on it ran and drove great! Got a lot of compliments on it Great little trucks.
I'm still in awe of being able to find vehicles that old that aren't rusted into oblivion. I hate living in New England. Around here you have to really scrutinize used cars. Even ones as little as ten years old can have critical frame rot, especially trucks.
About 2 years ago, I picked up an 87 Ford Ranger 4x2 2.9L V6, 5 speed long bed for $800. Yep it needed brakes, and tires, but for $800 for a great running, work truck without any dents is pretty good. Even the AC in it works. I actually found a set of aluminum wheels with almost new tires on it at the pick a part yard for $250. I believe the previous owner got tired of the acceleration/drivability issue it was having. Once it warmed up and went into closed loop it would buck, stall, run rough, etc. Turned out to be a $45 O2 sensor. This truck does great for my needs and has a 7 foot bed. Gets 25mpg on the freeway at 80mph, has 3.73 gears so it'll tow a little bit, Ford de-rated their manual transmission equipped Rangers to only tow 2,000lbs. Being a manual transmission and 2WD it'll get up and go pretty well.
My first car was a ‘96 blazer in high school. It was a beat up POS. Hole in gas tank, AC only worked when I hit a pothole, leaked oil. But man I loved it. Was a great car.
This is the true top gear America. Variety of guys with different viewpoints who know and like cars. No demands from ad buyers to dumb it down for typical beer and taco consumers. Just fun with some information.
Drove my bone stock 2004 Jeep WJ with 220,000 miles from Kansas City, MO to Imogene Pass, up the pass (and others) and back home, no issues. That WJ will be great for that trail.
I bought a 97 blazer 4x4 2dr 4wd automatic $600 spent $190 for parts. 107,950 miles on it. All it needed was a fuel line, speedometer fix mirrors, and rear hatch fix. Mine is cranberry red. I love my blazer. I've had it for almost 2 months. To quote David Frieburger this thing is mint. End quote. Indeed it is. Also it's my first 4wd.
My mother had a 2000 blazer that became mine after she passed, put a used transmission in it at 187k miles, it spun a rod bearing at 235k miles. I purchased another 2000 blazer (in worse shape but less mileage) with plans of it being a parts donor, but ended up driving it and using my moms for parts. After I gutted it (I I mean gutted) My uncle bought it for $500 and put a lower mile 4.3 in it and is still driving it to this day. The 2nd blazer made it to 250k miles before the body mounts rusted from the frame and had to scrap it.
I picked up my 98 Blazer ZR2 four years ago for a grand because it didn't have the decals so nobody knew it had the off road package. Rough shape but it runs likes a champ.
I bought a 2000 Chevy Blazer 2 Dr. 4wd. Auto trans. 4.3 Vortec V6 with 94,000 miles., 9 years ago for 3500$. I'm still driving it. 220,000 miles later. No major issues. I drive it everyday. I usually go 10 -15,000 miles on oil change. Had tranny flushed n changed filter (had never been changed.)
I just spent $2,000 on a '99 Corolla with a manual transmission, power windows, cold AC, hot heat, and only 112k miles. Who says $2,500 can't get you a solid car?!
I’m the jeep WJ, turning the key to run position then back to off leaving it on the third time you turn it it will scroll through engine codes where the miles are displayed. Bought my limited for $600 with 50k less miles and in way better condition I must’ve struck a really good deal
Great video! I really like these challenge series’. Really great job guys, looking forward to the rest of the episodes
Between tfl and car trek, we've got a couple good versions of top gear USA
You guys should start doing road trips.
@@bendennis8773 I o
Me too, this is entertaining. Definitely a thumbs up.
Not to brag on miles or anything...but my 2000 camry has 485, 952 thousand miles and to my knowledge every damn bit of it is original...
My $2,500 cherokee I bought October 2019 has made it from Chicago to Oklahoma 5 times, Chicago to Kansas once, Chicago to Lake Superior 4 times, Chicago to Kentucky 8 times, and about 2 dozen other multi day trips. I will NEVER waste money on something just because its "newer"
i bought a 2004 grand cherokee for $3500 and things been an absolute tank, 275,000 miles and never had a problem
My dad had one that went to almost 300 I just got one at 110,000
That's awesome , but on a trailer pulled by a Ford doesn't count pard !! 🤷♂️
Just kidding there !!
Yeah well it’ll last longer
They are junk get over yourself
man, $2500 was a steal for that B4000, cheapest ranger around here I've seen recently was an 02 with 350k miles on it for $4000
I got my 01 ranger with 190k miles for about $1500 here in Oklahoma, I’ve been driving it for about 2 years, money well spent tbh
That’s wild dude. 350k miles for $4000 cars must be a rare oddity where your from
Bought a 1993 Ranger for 1700$ with 113k miles runs pretty damn good so far and body was in good condition also I live in FL so no rust issues
You must have typed this comment into a time machine....or the commenters are talking about 2wd single cabs. I'm with you....Anything with 4wd is going way over value. These guys are throwing out 2005 prices.
The new ranger debuted and the value of old rangers went up. I've seen it in my area at least
I really like these Top Gear / Car Trek spinoffs where you get $XXX to buy a car and make the best of it. The part that really makes it is the chemistry between the “contestants”. Thanks for this entertaining video!
Thank you for watching!
@@TFLtruck yea reminds me of top gear USA i miss that show , one of them should go with a old sports car like a 944 and wreck the crap out of it.
Yeah but i miss the real top gear but im happy they left
Car Trek is just another spinoff
Nice show…..similar to Top Gear USA. Keep up the good work!
"You bought a brown fake Ranger" - Best quote of this whole show!
It's mazda b2300
"the tires are cucked"
I like the Mazda over the ford
😂
@@irvinglechuga2067 especially before 93’ when they were all Mazda, I had a 93’ B2600i and it was one hell of a little truck, I’d take another in a heartbeat.
That guy looked way to happy to take $2500 for Andre's truck, something tells me he got way more than he expected 😄
Ya something felt a bit off lol, unless he was a fan of TFL and decided just to let it go. Those Rangers are pretty stout with a stick, unless the jackshaft is going on that 4.0l
He said ok like twice before Andre asked him again if he would take 2,500
Had a couple of Ranger extended cab 4x4s...
Last was a 92 with the 4L and 5 speed manual.
Drove the shit out of it for 200k kms with literally zero issues.
When I got rid of it the clutch was about ready to need some love.
But Jesus even driving it hard it was in way better shape than that B4000
Literally i was looking for this comment he couldnt hold the smile back taking that 🤣 shouldve offered 2k but still a deal nonetheless
@@youtubejunky7481 you are thinking of the soch 4.0 the one featured is the ohv 4.0 which is pretty bulletproof
Haha, this reminds me of my jeep. About 16 months ago I picked up a 2000 Jeep Cherokee for 500. I fixed the leaking ac by replacing the low side shrader valve. I fixed the suspension (2 broken leaf springs and 3 blower shocks) by putting in a rough country 3” suspension lift and springing for the full rear leaf springs. Couple bits here and there and I’m still in it for less then 1400.
Oil leak on the Blazer is the engine oil cooler line. $45 part takes about 10 minutes to replace it for anyone who is wondering. If you ever run into this issue buy GM Genuine/AC Delco, the cheap aftermarket ones fail.
My 350 is leaking too.
Gm problems
@@user-dd3pl9ii2h They's hardy little vehicles, its basically just an S10 with the cab reaching all the way to the back. I've had my '99 for 6 years, bought wrecked for $250 in 2018.
She is a mean little machine. I've put mine through hell pulling trees and running trails, pavement, mud, snow, etc. Cheap interior and I hate the Space-Age vaccum operated 4wd, but a tough little bugger of a vehicle all things aside.
I love the Grand Cherokee. I've had a '97, '03, and a '15.
Apparently Colorado doesn’t use 3” of salt for every inch of snow like Ohio does…
Yeah Wisconsins the same, it's fantastic.
Why I don’t buy in ohio. Lease and give it back. My 21 Silverado frame is rusting already
@@7171-Ws6 damn my 2012 Ram is finally showing rust after 262,000 miles and never in a garage.
Here in PA we aren't happy until everyone's car is white with salt
Salt isn’t the only thing that rusts vehicles. Ohio gets way more rain and moisture than Colorado does.
I love how creative and fun you guys are getting with your videos. I love the energy and positive mood of everyone. And I really just enjoy everything about TFL. Great video guys! I had as much fun watching this as you guys did making this video.
This blazer is more of a blazer than the new thing Chevy called a blazer!!!
The only thing closer would be the actual K5 Blazer LOL. I like the older square body stuff, but the S10 sized Blazers were ok too.
More pissed about the new tiny no frame trailblazer.
Truly
And it's probably more reliable than the new so called blazer
They were taking the piss out of Andre for the brown truck, but in general, seeking out a Mazda B series or Ford Ranger generally seems like the smartest choice of the three.
That said, Nathan's Blazer actually seems pretty nice.
Preview looks like we're finally getting a 7th season of Top Gear US!
This is the next top gear lol
I was thinking the same thing. All we need is the stig.
Between this and car trek... I'll take it over top gear any day
Why the Stig when we have Roman?
@@MatthewBonacci3881 They actually have the Stig from Top Gear USA, Paul Gerrard, do their track reviews.
Love Nathan’s Colfax avenue comment!!! LMAO!! Those little 4.3 Vortecs were quick! My mom had a 93 and a 95 and they were fun to drive!!
I'm pulling for Andre. I've had a 4.0 Ranger and B4000, both manuals and loved every minute of each.
I about bought a Mazda 4x4 truck back in 1995. Wish that I had done so instead of buying a 1995 dodge Dakota 4x2 sport model truck.
I have a 3.0 2002 ranger edge 145,000 on the odometer still runs like my little pogchamp.
My dad had the Mazda, I had the ranger. Awesome trucks.
@@tammylott921 Who said they weren't? I was only stating that I had one of each version.
@@superfakegamer6359 the 3.0 is a slug, had a 2001 with the 3.0 and it was sooo slow. The 3.0 has been known to get cracked heads, i had both crack at different years and had to buy rebuilt heads. Hopefully you have better luck, the 3.0 aka the vulcan was used in the Taurus around that time also.
I had a 96 Blazer. Same color and 2 door. She made it to 250,000 miles before the transmission gave way. Loved that little truck. It was a Swiss Army knife.
Why not fix the transmission?
No better way to start a Sunday morning than to wake up to TFL starting a new series! Going to enjoy every one of these episodes!
For sure
My family's first car was a 2002 Grand Cherokee with the 4.7. It honestly was a great car, but not without its issues. Yes, it lasted to nearly 300k, but that was after blowing 2 motors, having to get the diff done 3 times, the trans on its last legs, and various other electrical issues. I do wish we kept the car as it was better than some of our later purchases, but Chrysler was not known for using the highest quality of components. Still miss it, had great memories in that car.
I had had an 89' S10 with the 4.3 and used it to pull my 18.5" boat monthly with no issues. Probably had around 250,000 miles on it before it got totaled in a wreck when my dad was driving it. I would love to find another in good condition like I had but in a 4x4.
I had an '02 "Xtreme" street machine 2 dr Blazer with the Vortec. That was the world's easiest paralell parking vehicle with 100" wheelbase and rwd. It was a cool car and peppy, although guzzled gas for how big it was.
That 4.3 is one of the most dependable v6 engines ever made.
Was even used in industrial applications.
It never got the recognition it deserved cuz chevy always mated it with questionable transmissions.
IN A GM? YEA RIGHT LOL
@@toddbob55
I had a 1997 bravada with the 4.3 vortec. The truck was a total shitbox, but the engine wouldn’t die. Only reason I got rid of it was because the “AWD” system was failing and the body was rotting out.
The engine (with over 250k on it) however was mint. Sold it to a junkyard for $250 and he was ecstatic to get the motor out.
I'm working on a 1989 gmc s15 with the 2.8 5 speed in it 140k miles everything works good needs alittle body work I'm going to clean it up and do a v8 swap just Saving the money now
Love this kind of series where they go out and buy vehicles the average Joe could buy. Would live to see one where they go out and buy a fun, sporty car with a manual for under $10,000. Maybe a Mustang, BMW and a 240Z.
Buy a Camaro or Corvette for that price
Should do a slowest race put all three in 4x4 low and let them idle off the line to see who has the lowest gearing in 4 low?
Oh man! Nathan that Blazer reminds me of the 2003 GMC Jimmy 4-door 4.3L V6 4x4 I helped a buddy of mine buy, $1800 with 165K miles and everything except the rear wiper worked! (Wiper fluid would leak into the car from the rear hatch seal, the line was busted somewhere in the seal) other than that, the truck was PERFECT! 4wd, power everything, including seats! This thing was FULLY loaded...Unfortunately he had issues with his license so he couldn't register it for quite sometime and had no where to store it, so he had to sell it. Wish I hadn't purchased my Tacoma a month earlier because this would've been an EXCELLENT work vehicle! Hope the person who got this knew what a gem this was!!!
Folks were surprised that the 4.0 was slow? I had one and it couldn’t pass anything, including the gas station.
They got a 4.7, which has all the downsides if the 4.0 and no reliability to boot. Btw how was yours slow? My 97zj cruises at 85 when I have to, gets mad at 90
@@RichTexas82513 my 4.0 wasn't fast but definetly not slow. Plus they have more torque than hourse power and rev super low. Nothing about them was sporty you got soild axles and a 4.0 for a reason haha.
@@RichTexas82513 the 4.7 was reliable. i have a few buddies that have a few 4.7s that have all hit 300k without issue.
the problems with the gen 1 units (all issues were fixed with gen 2 but those were never put into this body style jeep) all came down to owners and lack of maintenance. they dropped seats because owners let them overheat, and then sludged up as owners also never did oil changes.
So Tommy I saw the codes that the tech pulled up. You have a torque converter code that is why you have a transmission overheat code. Torque converter is slipping. Needs an overhaul. 01 is a 5 speed automatic. 2001 Jeep turned on the 5th speed on in 01. You can have 5th turn on on a 99-00 by having the dealership flash the pcm and tcm
The older Top Gear vibes with these 3 guys and their personalities should make for a great series. I'm excited for this! Well done TFL
I was totally expecting someone to get a dirt bike or some other motorcycle, but these choices are good. I'm excited to see what comes!
"You bought a brown fake Ranger is what you did." Top Gear is back lads.
Andre= May
Nathan=Clarkson
Tommy=Hammond
Those 4.3 vortec v6 are great engines. It held its own against that jeep v8.
Basically a 350 with the front 2 cylinders chopped off.
Still got my 03 ZR2 truck and thats right. Still running great.
I feel like he could have bought the mazda for less
I think we all agree that Andre didn’t even try
They saw him coming, that for sure
Yes.
Point out more defects and then START at $1000....
To find a Blazer for $2200 and fully functional? Sheesh, that's absolutely INSANE. At least based on the used car market of the west half of Oregon. Then again, I've also ran into 1980s vehicles going for over $3k-$4, and mind you, your average everyday models, too. Even seen one priced at over $8K, and it was your average Camry from the 80s. No jokes.
Always enjoy these series!
Prices on used vehicles have gone way up in the past year due to the lack of new vehicles available on the market due to supply shortages, so the used car market is now seeing price increases often doubling, and quadrupling what they're worth, and people are stupid enough to pay those prices.
Holy crap O.o in Tennessee the Chevy and the jeep would have been less than 2k and the ranger would have been around 3500$. I'm a huge S10/Sonoma fan because of how cheap they are around here. My daily is a 91 4.3 5 speed that I picked up for 400$
I like to believe that people aren't really dumb enough to just pay scalper rates for used cars, it's just that they either don't know anything about cars, or were forced into the market by an accident.
Well Andre is my boy in this one. I once owned a '94 Mazda B4000 SE and absolutely loved it! I paid $500 for it and that little white meat nugget got me everywhere. Kick ass my friend!
I am a Ford guy outta those 3 but that 4.3 is a hella reliable engine and I wouldnt be surprised if the blazer wins this series.
I didnt notice that these vehicles were purchased at least 2 months ago and had reviews on tflclassic till it was recommended.
my mom had a oldsmobile version and it sucked the awd system failed at 65k miles
"Dont tell each other what those vehicles are..." Everyone shows up in the same truck...
Lol xD
Gosh you can tell their production value is just getting better each day and TFL truck is def the standout of all the tfl channel!
I'm loving these cheap 4x4 challenges! Reminds me of a different take on the Top Gear cheap car challenges.
It is exactly that, but without all of the chemistry and hilarity :(
Others have said it, but seriously this is very Top Gear esque. Love the format!
Great choice Andre..should have only offered $2k and used any additional $ for repairs...
TFL is on course to become the top watched car channel on RUclips
I wanted to hear Tommy's answer on Reno strip clubs lol
all chevys smelled like that in 1996
I wonder what Charlotte Roadcap is doing today?
@@marydangelo621 hopefully doesn't live or work in Reno
as a good dad, Roman brought him one time...
Front tires are cupped on the B4000...usually worn front ball joints, camber bushings, tie rod ends. Normal things on those TTB front axles.
Common issues on those trucks was the front autolocking hubs...many people just replaced them with Warn, or Mile Marker manual locking hubs. The other common thing was for the transfer case shift motor to stick, and either not engage or not disengage...mostly due to lack of use.
I’m rooting for the Blazer. The old S10s and Blazers were great. I do miss my ‘92 4x4 S10.
I like the old square body S10's.
S10 are extremely reliable!
Funny, loved it! I drove a 94’ Mazda B series and my wife drove a 2000 Grand Cherokee in college! This is a trip down memory lane for both of us! Brought smiles to us as we watched! Looking forward to the rest of the series!
I like the beer can and trash flying out of Andre’s truck when he pulled up lol
Awesome episode guys. I’m absolutely loving the simplicity of the V6 Blazer. The 4WD selector is all of the retro coolness 😎😎😎
This is Awesome!! I like series like this! The Blazer is probably my favorite. That WJ is actually kinda rare! The vast majority of the 4.7s came with the Quadra Trac NV247. Very few 4.7s came with the Selec Trac NV242. I think it was only available in the Laredo trim.
I have a Selec Trac mines a 4.7 and it's a 00
And mine is a limited
@@coltonrussell8705 Awesome! I never new the V8 WJs ever came with anything other than the NV247, until a few years ago. Only ever heard of a few Laredo's though.
NV242HD with Dana 44 rear shes the most solid out of all of them.
@@Con_Rad850 all 4.7s have the d44a rear :) SUPER AWESOME VEHICLES
Great episode. It’s fun to see you guys getting old beaters and having so much fun. It’s also reminiscent of car trek with Ed Bolian, Freddy Hernandez, and Tyler Hoover. Fun stuff. Keep up the great content.
This is the reason I don’t have cable ! Because of you guys . Always great content , been a subscriber since 2015 and proud of it 🙌 tfl for the win
Thanks for watching!
Great video guys! Btw, my TFL K1500 is still running like a champ.
Sweet! Thanks for the update on that rig. Was my favorite for sure in the last shootout.
The guy who Andrey bought that truck from seemed super relieved to be getting any amount of money for it. 😅
Definitely paid to much lol
I am liking this a lot, already. This is about the kind of vehicles that almost everyone has sitting in their driveway. It should be a fun series!
I love how much Nathan loves this lol
I had a 1996 Mazda B4000 that had over 300,000 miles on it when I was unfortunatly involved in an accident and it got totalled. One of the best trucks I have ever had. The 4.0 V6 was a very strong engine. With basic mantenince it still ran like new even with that many miles on it.
Greay Video! Kinda reminds me of the old Grand Tour/Top Gear Challenges. Showing the buying process was a nice little authentic touch. Don't sell the series short put the camera guys on "Embedded Mode" for the good ball busting. I feel Nathan has the winner here.
Super excited for this series. My favorite here is the Blazer followed by the Mazda. But honestly they are all winners
The WJ with the 4.7 actually has the 45RFE transmission which is known to be very durable. It's not the old 42RE 4-speed that comes with the 4.0 that is soo fragile.
Glad you pointed it out, I kept thinking that when they kept calling it a four-speed. Also, I did have the four-speed behind the 4.0 in my 97, when I got rid of it at 165k it still shifted perfectly.
all 3 Grand Cherokees/Cherokees I have owned all had 4wd problems and wiring problems, all around 100K miles. The 4.0L is great but the wiring is crap. My 4.0L / 5 Speed Cherokee was the easiest to fix but it still required a lot of wiring work.
Should actually be the 545RFE. Mechanically the same but can use the extra gear on downshifts.
@@aaronmodlin1871 01 it would need a computer flash to get the 5th gear. Or computer replacement.
id be alot more worried about the 4l60 in the blazer lol
I’m amazed on the condition of the blazer, my dads was a always breaking down and it’s name was “red rusty”
An actually Blazer not the minivan they slapped the name on. My first vehicle was a 95 blazer. Loved it. Miss it
That aint a real blazer either 69-72 and 73-91 are the real blazers full sized with a removable top
@@brendongollon868 compared to what they're calling a blazer now it is
@@brendongollon868 also smaller size means more agile
2:22 the guy in the middle is looking like dam I want to keep this for myself 😂😂
Excellent video guys. That chemistry is bang on. Chomping on the bit to see more. You should do more like these
This is a great series in the making. Looking forward to it.
However, the misinformation surrounding the Grand Cherokee is embarrassing.
For people that make their living(s) from vehicles, you guys should know better.
The WJ (1999-2004) only had three motors available. The legendary, bulletproof I6 4.slow, mated to the POS, junk ass 42re transmission. The 4.7 V8 and 4.7 HO V8 both were mated to the rugged, 45RFE/545RFE. The FIVE speed transmission was actually pretty damn tough. Still in use today in 2021. Just needs to be maintained like any transmission.
So, all three of these fools were wrong. They all were undoubtedly making fun of the POS 42re transmission, not the 545RFE, so they were mistaken.
Anyway, small details. I'll be here all series, as a passionate WJ owner, I'll be here dishing out needless info.
I'm a recent WJ owner, bought an 04 Limited (4.7) from auction on a whim. Spent much time and money doing a lot of fixing and upgrading, intending to flip but ended up liking it, so I kept it and let my wife start driving my 2017 Mazda lol
My WJ is a 2WD, but as a Texan (DFW area) there just simply isn't much need for 4x4 for me. So far, really enjoying it, especially the V8, it has been many years since I had one.
Really looking forward to this guys! Another great fun concept…. Should be a good time!
Thank you.
Back in the 90s my dad bought a Mazda b2300 manual and he had it forever so I think Andre's truck might be the most reliable.
The weak point with the Mazda's and Rangers back then were the automatic transmissions....with the manual in Andre's truck he'll be fine but I'm betting the auto locking hubs for the 4WD are trashed.
I love this series! However, one note, the transmission (45 RFE) behind the 4.7L V8 in the WJ is beyond bulletproof. Nathan is thinking about the transmission (42re) behind the 4.0 inline 6. That one was weak sauce.
I was waiting for someone to say that
The 4.7L V8 isn't that great either...the 4.7L HO was supposed to be a much better option. The 42RE is really hit and miss it seems. I had 232k on my 96 ZJ 4L with the 42RE, and never had any issues, did some heavy towing, lots of offroading and overheating the transmission, never had any problems. My 98 ZJ 4L 42RE on the other hand that was a street queen had all sorts of issues, lost the front transmission seal, shifting issues, slipping, etc, at 159k....Loved the 98 ZJ because of the rear limited slip differential and the selec-trac 4WD, but that transmission sucked....they must have changed some internals on the transmissions in later years because my 96 was bulletproof.
The 4.7 will blow up before the transmission goes. I drive one daily as my yard vehicle at a jeep shop in pa. But right now the front spring perch is rotting out. That's the wjs main flaw is the damn rubber over the spring perch
@@karentheblazer the 4.7 in ours had a cracked block. 30k miles later and the transmission blew. I actually just got finished replacing it. I hope we get a lot more good miles out of it now that half the drive train has been replaced.
@@Synergy7Studios yeah it should be fine to go now. But watch for spring perch rot as well there bad because there covered with a rubber insulator.
I bought my current car for $2550 back in 2017. I am still driving it today. It has never let me down!
Tommy got a good vehicle this time, thought he'd show up in some 4 Wheel Drive Suzuki or Fiat we never knew about. I'll definitely give him what he deserves 🎊👏👏👏🎊👏👏👏🎊
Nothing wrong with Suzuki, fiat yes
He keeps it interesting lol.
You knew Tommy would get a Jeep and are not Fiat and Jeep in business?
@@edwardclement102 Fiat (well Stellantis now) currently owns Jeep yes but back when this one was made it was Daimler (Mercedes) that owned them.
The Fiat Panda 4x4 is so underrated. Top Gear raced one against Range Rovers. It lost the drag race (1200cc vs 4000cc) but beat the RR on every off road stage.
Love seeing a WJ on the channel, they're such underrated rigs!
fact. However the wrong information is going to rub me wrong af.
@@Trebelhornc Yeah, the 4.7L transmission can be reprogrammed to a 5-speed. They're also more reliable than the 42re that came with the 4.0L.
@@ADirtyScrub I thought that reprogram was only for the later WK's? The 4.7L HO would be good the standard 4.7L wasn't great, the HO version from what I've been told has some beefed up internals, too bad they skipped the whole upper end for beefing up since they love to drop valves, valve seats, and blow off rocker arms.
@@wildbill23c The V8 WJ came with the 45RFE. (4 speed, Torque rating of 5, RWD, fully electronically controlled) it was unique because it used 3 gear sets instead of the normal two that most 4 speed autos use. That was because it had a second 2nd gear. Or 2nd Prime it used only for kickdown shifting. AKA passing gear. Because it had 3 gear sets it could be reprogrammed to make use of a 5th higher gear. This would be referred to as a 545RFE. I own a 4.0L WJ with the 42RE, which most consider an inferior and weaker trans than the 45RFR on the V8, due to some manufacturing defects I'm the design on the 42RE. If built right it's not a bad transmission though.
Fantastic start guys! Really looking forward to the next episodes. This gave the best Top gear vibes.
I had a 94 B4000 4x4 short box standard cab. Loved that truck. I’m pulling for ya Andre.
This is going to be a fun series to watch. Gives me some old school Top Gear vibes
When can we see more about the Peugeot 404? Can't wait!
Back in 1996, a chevy blazer was my favorite vehicle. That changed when I saw a trans am for the first time lol.
But the 4.3L blazer is probably the most reliable one there. The 4.0 wasn't bad but the 4.7s were pretty bad. They are better suited for the Cherokee and Dakota but are terribly slow in a ram. My 04 ran accelerated ok in 1st gear but was terrible after that.
Love this!!! BFG, good on you for sponsoring this.
Thanks BFG !
Andre, you probably need to change out your auto hubs to warn manual hubs. disconnect your sway bar and that little rig will go anywhere.👍🏼
Stay tuned to next Sunday for next episode! You are foreshadowing…
I'm betting that those garbage auto-locking hubs are shot...pretty common problem with them, and many people just replace them with manual locking hubs.
This is gonna be a good one boys. Can't wait!! Starting to love junkboxes like yours hahaha greetings from ESPAÑA
Ahhhh 😌 the blazer! I used to have one a black 2001 2 door blazer with the 4.3 and 4X4. I really miss it, I sold it back in summer of 2017 with 170,000 on it ran and drove great! Got a lot of compliments on it Great little trucks.
Smells like a "Reno strip club" "cigarettes and shame" epic!
I'm still in awe of being able to find vehicles that old that aren't rusted into oblivion. I hate living in New England. Around here you have to really scrutinize used cars. Even ones as little as ten years old can have critical frame rot, especially trucks.
oh so true and the high price on top of it all
Love this series. I can't wait for the next episode. Thanks guys
I love buying beaters. They can be more fun then when you buy a new luxury car
Absolutely love when people do this!
About 2 years ago, I picked up an 87 Ford Ranger 4x2 2.9L V6, 5 speed long bed for $800. Yep it needed brakes, and tires, but for $800 for a great running, work truck without any dents is pretty good. Even the AC in it works. I actually found a set of aluminum wheels with almost new tires on it at the pick a part yard for $250. I believe the previous owner got tired of the acceleration/drivability issue it was having. Once it warmed up and went into closed loop it would buck, stall, run rough, etc. Turned out to be a $45 O2 sensor. This truck does great for my needs and has a 7 foot bed. Gets 25mpg on the freeway at 80mph, has 3.73 gears so it'll tow a little bit, Ford de-rated their manual transmission equipped Rangers to only tow 2,000lbs. Being a manual transmission and 2WD it'll get up and go pretty well.
I'm pretty sure Andre has never won a single drag race on TFL Truck 🤣
he usually beats Roman
@@toyyoda3710 its just a joke, having fun
@@Mang213 lol, i know... Roman is even worse at drag racing but yeah. Andre has been losing a lot lately
My first car was a ‘96 blazer in high school. It was a beat up POS. Hole in gas tank, AC only worked when I hit a pothole, leaked oil. But man I loved it. Was a great car.
This is the true top gear America. Variety of guys with different viewpoints who know and like cars. No demands from ad buyers to dumb it down for typical beer and taco consumers. Just fun with some information.
Drove my bone stock 2004 Jeep WJ with 220,000 miles from Kansas City, MO to Imogene Pass, up the pass (and others) and back home, no issues. That WJ will be great for that trail.
This looks like another good one!
Thank you for the kind words.
yeah I can't wait!!!
@@TFLtruck You guys should get a 2nd Gen Ford Explorer. You can get them for under 2k easily.
hi
@@angelgjr1999 Yeah,got mine this spring. Love it.
I bought a 97 blazer 4x4 2dr 4wd automatic $600 spent $190 for parts. 107,950 miles on it. All it needed was a fuel line, speedometer fix mirrors, and rear hatch fix. Mine is cranberry red. I love my blazer. I've had it for almost 2 months. To quote David Frieburger this thing is mint. End quote. Indeed it is. Also it's my first 4wd.
Nice, i love these series! You guys are really great presenters, it’s always fun to look at your videos!
My mother had a 2000 blazer that became mine after she passed, put a used transmission in it at 187k miles, it spun a rod bearing at 235k miles. I purchased another 2000 blazer (in worse shape but less mileage) with plans of it being a parts donor, but ended up driving it and using my moms for parts. After I gutted it (I I mean gutted) My uncle bought it for $500 and put a lower mile 4.3 in it and is still driving it to this day. The 2nd blazer made it to 250k miles before the body mounts rusted from the frame and had to scrap it.
This looks like a fun series. Looking forward to seeing more videos.
I picked up my 98 Blazer ZR2 four years ago for a grand because it didn't have the decals so nobody knew it had the off road package. Rough shape but it runs likes a champ.
so lucky!!! keep it forever!
@@lovellmills7959 that's the plan
Great first show. Can’t wait for the next.
Episode 2 is coming at 9am EST next Sunday !
Andre should have known about the manual locking hubs on the b4000 for the test drive
I'm betting the Blazer is in the best shape. Might be best off road with that short 100" wheelbase too.
Nah them blazers had trans issues from the start. I'm betting the mazda
@@benrent6625 your talking about the 4l60e? They had problems but usually at 200,000 miles, i had a few
I bought a 2000 Chevy Blazer 2 Dr. 4wd. Auto trans. 4.3 Vortec V6 with 94,000 miles., 9 years ago for 3500$. I'm still driving it. 220,000 miles later. No major issues. I drive it everyday. I usually go 10 -15,000 miles on oil change. Had tranny flushed n changed filter (had never been changed.)
I’m so pumped for this series!
I just spent $2,000 on a '99 Corolla with a manual transmission, power windows, cold AC, hot heat, and only 112k miles. Who says $2,500 can't get you a solid car?!
and you'll probably still be driving it in another 20 years LOL....they run forever. The Corollas and Camry's make great daily drivers.
Good job by all three! It will be interesting to see the off road capabilities of each vehicle.
I’m the jeep WJ, turning the key to run position then back to off leaving it on the third time you turn it it will scroll through engine codes where the miles are displayed. Bought my limited for $600 with 50k less miles and in way better condition I must’ve struck a really good deal