rickwtx

After 6 years without my coveted 2000 LC, I'm trying to get back to driving a real suv, albeit on a budget. I found a one-owner 1997 LX450 (parked for 3-4 years) for $3000. The issue is that the front axle is gone (owners words). Couldn't get any other details from him, just "gone", and that he had a shop look at it and decided to not have the axle rebuilt. Other than that it's in really good shape and only has 171,300 miles. Since I have very little knowledge of the axle set-up on these, can I get some general advice? Is this common and what component is the most likely candidate for failure? Can I also switch to 2wd temporarily to get this from his house to mine? The owner is a bit cagey and doesn't want me to spend a lot of time checking it out, its either buy or get off my lawn )

TexLX450

Most likely the Birfield joints. Not uncommon with these trucks. You can search the internet to see what is involved. Basically, they are flex or u-joint type connections that are housed in the ends of the front axles. Not rocket science to replace, but a messy job. Plenty of LC mechanics who would do it for much less than the dealer. As for the truck in general, if its been sitting for 3 or 4 years, its going to need tires, a battery and all the fluids flushed. And, unless the brake system has been rebuilt, you can bet the lines and seals are all at or near the end of their flexibility and sealing capacity. Again, not a huge expense if you do ti yourself, but a deal will charge handsomely for that type of work. Last, the truck is full time 4WD, so there is no easy way to simply switch off of the front axle. If the truck is in otherwise good shape, with no wrecks, it could be a good candidate for some practical restoration and updates. Good luck.

hankinid

You might post your questions and concerns here...Everything you want or need to know about the 80 series

hth