I am the original owner of a 1988 (1987) Dodge Raider. I guess that makes me a GenI owner. She still runs, but I replaced her as my everyday vehicle with a 2004 Montero Sport (just not the same, too fancy, but a good vehicle). I love tootling around on weekends with my oldie and cannot part with her. I would really love to begin a mechanical restoration, but am not a mechanic. Don't get me wrong, I'd attempt some things and have changed oil, etc. But only did a brake job once with on-site, step-by-step instructions. My brother is a good mechanic, but doesn't have time to help his little sister on this kind of project. Hubby is mechanically-challenged, as well. Any suggestions? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" />

Welcome to the wire!! I would find a shop or someone you know to give a good evaulation of the condition and what may need to be done. Take that info and put it a priotrity type list of things that need to be done and what can be put off for a little while. There are several of us that are not to far from you. There is an amazing amt of info on this board that you can use too. Just using the search function can overwehlm you with stuff on the topic.
First thing is put your vehicle year, motor and trans type in your signiture line so the help you get is in line with your truck anytime you post. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

welcome! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />
drooooolllll <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/drunk.gif" alt="" />
instead of taking it to a shop... and being mechanically challenged, beware of pro's <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shame.gif" alt="" />. not saying all mechs are bad, but they know a pigeon when they see one <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/angry.gif" alt="" />. if your brothers a good mech, have him go throught he vehicle and figure out what needs love and what doesnt. he doesnt need to do the work, but at least youll get an honest diagnosis of what actually needs to be done. then post the results here... there is more knowledge in this forum regarding mitsu's than youll ever need, and chances are youll get all the step by step answers you need <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />.
btw, you shouldotta put your both your rigs info into your signiture <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />.
p.s. still bowing to the alter of frankr <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />.

Thanks! It's a 2.6 automatic. It's got 150K or so on the engine. I'll get the specifics VIN, etc. and add. I guess I should get serious and have that evaluation done to figure out where to begin. A transmission mechanic told me once that it had a Volvo transmission in it.

That's a thought. I was having starter problems as described here. Just needed the contacts cleaned as learned on the forum <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Actually, some Volvos and the Raiders both run the same series of Aisin transmission. They are not interchangeable, but some of the parts inside are. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />
Some 4runners, sportages, toyota vans and trucks (plus many more) all run this very reliable trans.

Another good way to learn about these great little 4x4s is to pick up a factory repair manual. I see them at least once a month on ebay, usually sell for $15 - $25 (they are a two volume set, the first manual for mechanical and body work and the second for electrical). Welcome to the forum <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Thank you. I've got one of those Haynes books and someone here has the download address and I've started to print that, too. I'm just an unlikely mechanic, but I'm going to try with everyone's help. I wish they would just market the Pajero Pinin in the U.S. I think I'll write a letter to MitsuUSA out in California. Not a beer drinker, but quite a wineaux. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

Where on the coast are you at??

I am in OS, and there are a few guys around here. you ought to come on some of our rides..

Welcome <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Check out Freedomoffroad.org, they do a lot of local rides down here great bunch. Wyleone and have done a few rides with them. Im out till get a fan clutch and fuel pump in the raider. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />. It doesn't like the heat down here very much.