Yes track is really rough & rocky, but its wide enough for easy two way traffic, which encouraged me to try it.
I went with stock suspension and new AT tires. Ride was not bumpy, but It rocks side-to-side like a boat if one tire goes over a big rock or falls in a ditch. Family and kids were all asleep throughout the journey, so I guess it tells you something.
Things I did:
- Usual per-cautions for buying any used car: non-accidental, original paint, body, engine etc.
- Islamabad, Rawalpindi or Lahore registration (I'm based in Islamabad)
- I used a contact in registration department to check the paper work after paying token money
- Mine has everything from Interpol clearance at Japan port, import papers from Dubai port and laboratory clearance from Islamabad and all the details/papers of previous owners.
- Those export, import papers record car specs
- Used multiple mechanics to check major components, engine, transmission & suspensions
- Thoroughly check center diff locking, bad ones dis-engage when put to stress
Check signs of neglect and improper use and care... here are some stuff that I learned:
- Check for engine & O/D codes. Make sure car shifts into O/D. Its a common problem, car stays stuck in 3rd gear even at high speeds or shifts at high RPM... sign of neglect in my opinion
- Under the hood you can spot signs of neglect.. e.g. in mine.. fuel injection pipes going into engine were missing clips that protect the pipe from vibrating... if it goes unchecked then fuel pipes can leak.
- Check hand brake, if car moves a foot or two before stopping while in Park with hand brake engaged... then its another sign of neglect
- Turbo seems to be the problematic part, its expensive to replace. if its bad then its another sign of neglect and improper use. Turbo gives a whistle if turbines are worn out, white smoke if it leaks oil.
