Looking at buying Diesel Jackaroo

Apart from the obvious "in really good condition" ensure that the statutory servicing has been done properly (to the best extent possible). Valve adjustment on the 3.0L diesel is a big issue and costs heaps (at a dealer) - so much so that some dealers don't do it (while charging for it !!). Guess all you can do is read the fine print in the servicing guide of the handbook, and then satisfy yourself that someone has at least been paying for it to be done. The timing belt clicks in at about 200k I think.

I never figured out what the difference is between L8 & U8. From the time I was invesitigating my purchase back in 1999, I have seen both L8 & U8 used to describe the same vehicle.

The big thing I guess is to make sure all the recalls have been actioned. Check www.recalls.gov.au, do a search on Jackaroo and make sure you include closed recalls. You will find there are 3 for the 4JX1 engine, however 2 of those are for very early builds of that motor.

Do a search through the archives here. There is a plethora of info on this site.

Happy hunting!

I'm very happy with mine now. Did have a few probs when new but they were sorted out eventually..Parts can be expensive if you buy from Holden but Jackworld seem to be reasonable. I cant find any reference to L8 or U8 on mine, 2002 model. As you were advised make sure the recalls have been attended to especially the one relating to the injector seals.....

differences at the ubs 98 update were minor cosmetic, diesel engine 3.0 , and gearboxes.

Make sure the injector update has been done, run the right oil , change both filters and love it..... and if you get one with the factory twin batteries - bonus.

No expert on the jacks but they did bring out a model a few years ago with a slightly wider wheel track for better on/off road handling

I have a 2001 3.0 TD and am pretty happy with it - but as Savvas says, make sure it has been serviced and with the right oil - they are temperamental if this is not done (mine was difficult to start and this turned out to be leaking injector sleeves) it was fixed under warranty. Great to drive, tows a 2 tonne caravan without difficulty and is reasonable on the fuel side.

Thanks for the info. Looking at a 2000 SE manual at the moment 68,000 on the clock. All the service history is there and serviced at the dealarship where it is for sale. I looked up the VIN and the recall range and it falls out side the range for the faulty injectors. The service intervals are meant to be every 10,000 my brother has a current TD prado and recomends serviceing every 5,000.. What are the servicing costs like on a Jackaroo?

The car I was looking at has been sold so I am still on the hunt.. The Diesels as a bit on the rare side though

Buy a petrol - bullet proof and servicing every 10,000 km!

The main thing that is steering me towards the Diesel is the fuel economy side. I think I now know the difference between L8 and U8. From what I can see the L8 has manual locking hubs where the U8 they are auto.

True Diesel is about 10% more expensive than petrol at the moment but the Diesel uses more than 10% less fuel than the petrol version as is my understanding. From what I have read here and else where it is between 20% and 30% more efficient. Although I think that the diesel is more expensive to service isn't it?