A local has an 89 raider for sale for $750.
The good: The body and undercarriage - TX car so just about rust - free.

The bad: The 3.0 bane (it's a 3.0 auto, no lsd) of valves sticking has struck! Intake on one cyl seems sticky (making an occasional snap/clack - definately up in the valve train) - result is some gas in oil and probably shot rings in that cylinder. Not that this is what's wrong but... it's what I think is wrong.

The interior isn't the greatest but it's all there (no bouncy seat)

The transmission fluid's a bit dark but not real bad. Certainly not brown - not burnt-just used (prob time to change).

130 on the ticker. Never been hit. Otherwise seems in good shape.

OPINIONS!?? Help!

I'm a Gen II owner but If I were looking to replace a motor in a Gen I, I'd look for the best one I could find as they will all probably be around the same price offroad package or not. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Offer $500 cash.

What about the engine-

We're probably looking at a total rebuild needed here...

I guess I wonder if it's worth the mess...?

Ditto.

If said Raider was here in Cali, I'd buy it for the $750, but I'd be sure to start lower. The bouncy seat, LSD, and other parts can be added later for cheap. The engine problem is solved by swapping it out for another. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

$500 "Cash Money" <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />