1980 Nissan 3.3diesel

I bought one of those new in 1980 for $11,000...geez it was big money in those days. One of the best trucks I ever owned. Virtually unbreakable. The only drawback was that it was 24volt but then again I wasn't running a heap of accessories. The rear springs were an issue with noise and and a bit of axle tramping but I had a very good run out of mine. Did 180,000km is 18 months. It was used as a tour vehicle. 3.3 diesels should be available at most 4x4 wreckers. Wouldn't pay more than $3000 for the truck

Camper,
If it needs a new motor I would humbly suggest your mate price one before purchasing the vehicle, I have seen later model ones for sale for around $5,000- $6,000 which have a better interior and a 5 speed tranny. I wouldn't be keen on paying in the ',000's for one. If the owner wants to get rid of it ask them what the wrecker would offer, probably only worth this.
Rolande

Camper,

What has been said above is pretty right. Good solid reliable truck, not flash but it will do the job.

The biggest problemm I had with mine was rust in the drivers foot well floor and in the sills. Also in the roof.

If it is a shortie with the resin top then rust around the seal between the top and the body of the vehicle can also be a problem especially at the threaded holes where the top bolts on.

Duncs

if its the mid wheel base model than pay no more than $1500 and long wheel base $1000 and hope the gear box is ok!
The motor are getting a bit hard to find good ones now they all are a bit warn. The last time I checked the motors where going for over $2200 for a good one.
As for the car look out for RUST where ....bloody well every where. The door go, fire wall ,turrents, floor pans ,sills, cross members ,guards.....hell the only thing that didnt rust was the motor on my one.

The best thing about the car was the SD33 motor it was a real gem. Take about makeing the toyota's motor come out of the ark.I don't think nissan has made a better motor yet .

The only really annoying thing about the short wheel base is the way they made the window lock for the tailgate. The casting was so weak they used to snap off and the next person to heave on the plastic window handle used to snap them off.Its so bad I dont think I've seen one lately with the handle complete and at a price over $200 for the lock I dont think anyone ever brought one.

As a 4WD they are one of the best not as good as a G60 but then again the G60 cannot do 120kms in comfort.

To be honest he can bring one in from Japan with no rust all the options for under $7000 with the SD33TD motor and a 5 speed box with full electrics.

shadow