which model were you looking at, the sport or regular, 2wd, 4wd, 6 or 8
cyl?

Check in with the folks at
http://www.4x4wire.com/forums/postlist.php?Cat=&Board=UBB69

From what I've read, these trucks are reliable. The major concerns
are:

6G72 SOHC engine -
1) Valve seals tend to leak about 100,000 miles.
2) Replace the original crank bolt. The original bolt can work loose
or break. It's a $7 part to prevent a $$$$ repair.

6G72 DOHC engine -
Difficult to work on. More powerful than the SOHC model.

The 6G72 engines are reliable and dependable, when maintained. It's
not uncommon to find old 1989/1990/1991 trucks with over 200,000 miles
on the original engine.

Mitsubishi  is the Japanese version of Ford in my opinion... scum balls

I've had 2 Monteros and I can't say enough about them. They're built like
tanks and they are as comfortable as hell. I drive mine in the SW desert and
I beat the crap out of it while travelling in luxury. The cargo area is
large and the seats fold down into a bed for impromptu camping. My 2002
Limited is a unibody and doesn't have a rattle or a squeak after two years
and more than 3,000 miles of twisting, rocky desert trails. I clean it up
and it's another 'soccer mom' SUV. I am a very satisfied owner and wouldn't
hesitate to buy another one except that the manager of my local dealership
is an a.shole. Gas mileage is poor and you'll need to use premium to get
good performance. It's a heavy vehicle and there's a lot of metal
underneath. Contrary to what some may believe, the Montero may arguably be
one of the best 'stock' 4x4 SUVs on the market. Just my
opinion................

Bob Walker