1988 Dodge Raider Mitsubishi Montero 4wd 2.6 (barn Kept For Last 10 Years) on 2040-cars

    I wish to sell my 1988 Dodge Raider, also known as a Mitsubishi Montero. I will describe the vehicle to the best of my ability and also the summary of my acquisition of it and any work that has been done to my knowledge.  First, I bought the Raider several months ago, with the intention to "fix it up". It was a local vehicle advertised for sale with a "bad engine." It was also noted that the vehicle had not been on the road, and stored in a barn, for approximately ten years. The condition of the body and interior would seem to validate that statement. Additionally, the Pa inspection sticker displayed on the windshield expired in 2004. The first thing I noticed about it, was that it was in surprisingly good cosmetic condition.

     I got the Raider started a few days after I brought it home. I did start, however the motor had a noticeable knock. A long story short, I ended up pulling the oil pan and discovered that one of the rod bearings had completely disintegrated. It looked as though the previous owners had not run the motor much after the knock developed, as the crank had minimal scoring. Since I was having trouble finding a replacement motor, I put a new bearing in, and put everything back together. Of course it is usually not advisable to replace a bearing where there is even the least visible scoring, but I didn't have the resources to get everything done like new. Now, the motor runs fine, but there is a small knock when it is first started, which seems to disappear within a few seconds. To be honest, sometimes you can hear a faint knock or rattle type sound. I do not know what this is, or how it relates to the initial bearing failure. The motor feels strong. It does not appear that there was any damage to any of the cylinders. It might be prudent to completely rebuild the motor, or replace it.

The brakes barely work. I do not know why, I have not looked into it. It could be something very simple, due to the vehicle sitting for 10 years. Also, it will need tires since they are prone to dry rotting and flat spots after sitting for such a lengthy period.

    As far the body and interior, they are in very good condition, as can be seen in the pictures. There is only a few minor spots of rust. The undercarriage does have same small surface rust, which can easily be peeled off with your fingers. The frame is solid. The underbody is solid. Any surface rust could be removed and some undercoating applied to bring it back to excellent shape. There is a small rust spot behind the rear bumper on one side. The front bumper one the driver's side corner is bent back about half and inch, due to an appear bump into something. There are some chips in the paint on the front of the hood.  The interior is nearly immaculate, and one will be surprised to see how good of condition it is in.

  If you are reading this, then you probably know what these vehicles are. The most remarkable aspect of this one, is that the body and interior are in such good condition. This might just be one of the nicest original Raiders left in existence, period. I really like this thing, and I had big plans to fix it up. Unfortunately for me, I no longer have the time or the money to invest in another project. I just want to get rid of it. Not to mention I need the space in my garage. It has been in my garage since early this year, I just got it out to take some pictures. Like I said, it starts right up, runs and drives. I moved it under its own power. I have not driven it on the road, so I cannot attest to any condition of its roadworthiness. I only moved it around my property.

  Anyone is welcome to come inspect the vehicle, just send me a message to set up a time.

The Raider has a clean Pennsylvania title in my name. There are local notary services where the buyer and myself can go to during normal business hours to transfer the title. Buyer is responsible for paying any fees associated with the transfer transaction, and/or any registration, plates, tags, etc.

   Buyer is responsible for any towing or shipping arrangements.

I will accept a PayPal payment, or cash payment only. No personal checks, no cashiers checks. I reserve the right to relist the vehicle for auction if the winning bidder has not either made full payment, or has not contacted me to tell me when I will receive payment (i.e. when they are coming to pay cash), within 3 days of the auction's close.

  Feel free to ask any questions. Thank you for looking. Have a good day.