Bob Y. replied:

Lyndon, We had a 60 series, that had done 300K kms when we sold it, with out touching the engine. It did need a tune up, but otherwise was OK. 2H engines should be good for 3 - 500K, with proper servicing.

With that mileage, you should anticipate some expense in the future, and if you had it checked by a reputable mechanic, then you may be able to anticipate what will need doing first.

Check wheel bearings, kingpin bearings, reardiff, and transfer/g'box for starters. Also beach sand inside chassis rails. Late model vehicle like that shouldn't have too many faults, they are a tough truck. Don't know about economy, would be good, unless you feed too much fat. See ya..

ptcrowe replied:

Lyndon I've got a 89 12HT factory turbo cruiser that has 380K on the clock it had 300 on it when i bought it . Only drama i have had was a blown head gasket. I had to drive the thing 300km with busted gasket once it was replaced no futher probs. They are a tough unit. Expense is possibly there only draw back. Head gasket for turbo 500$. Also priced reco engine upto $8000 . If there is a service history available with the truck that shows that it has been serviced regularly you should have no major problems engine wise.

I have no idea about economy figures but it's not busting my budget and i have to do a bit of running around town.

Alpaca replied:

Lyndon, I have a 86 12HT Sahara that has done 315,000k's and have had no problems with it at all. I service every 5,000k's and it looks like it would do another 315,000. I seem to average about 24mpg in the old terms and it doesn't seem to change much with what-ever your doing.I'm told the motors are good for 500-700,000 k's. Mates have had problems with gearboxes and diffs but i've had no problems at all.
I'm putting mine on the market shortly but it is difficult to find out what they are worth. What are youpaying for the 88 model?
Regards Alpaca

Phil G replied:

Lyndon,

The 12H-T is one of the best motors around. But if they need fixing, it'll cost you an arm and a leg! I'd suggest you invest in a few dollars to have it inspected by a 4wd mechanic or diesel mechanic who knows 12H-Ts. Depends on how well its been maintained and treated. Cost me $2,500 for a slight head gasket leak.

I owned one for 5 years and then sold it to a friend. He's spent $6000 on its gearbox, front end and air conditioner. But its a great car.

Phil

Lyndon replied:

Thanks for the replies thus far, does anybody know of a good diesel mechanic around the Werribee area?

Cheers