That's a very rational question and most of us here are irrational when it comes to our rigs. We love them despite or becuase of their faults and age.

Having said that if the truck is rust free with a clean interior then its worth it. you won't be able to buy a truck as reliable and functional as a montero for less than 2000 which is about what it will cost you to rebuild.

but it's an old truck so if your not willing to work on little things at least, then it will become a money pit.

when I got my truck I thought it just needed new heads but after tinkering with it you find most components on a 15+ year old truck need replacing. Parts are affordable if not cheap but labor is not so expects to replace more than just the engine which can amount to mucho $$$$.

But I have seen montero's especially 91 RS's go for upwards of 4000 if they are in good shape.

finally, this is just an opinion, but I don't see many 4x4 that are as rugged and utilitarian as GEN I monties. Nothing like a no frills brick on wheels. And as my friend says "from the boat it looks like a mercedes G-wagon."


you may have cheaper options than a rebuild. Used engines are 400-800.