I'm looking for some advice. I am looking at buying a 1989 GMC jimmy 4x4 with 4.3L Auto. I'm told the vehicle has a rebuilt engine (about 4 years ago, no milage details provided) and a rebuilt transmission (about 2 years ago,no milage details given).

Anything I should be aware of? I've never owned one and only knew one person that did and he liked his blazer except the one he got had a 4 cyl engine.

I'm look at this mainly for fishing and camping trips (some rather remote areas of dirt / gravel roads, stream crossing, etc). I know there are alot of after market accessories that I can use to customize the vehicle with. The body is in great shape for the age. I'm a mechanically inclined person so I am able to do the routine maintenance, accessory installs and minor repair work (I do this on my wifes car and my truck).

- Dan M

 

[sm=welcomesign.gif]I don't think the 4.3L has any more unique quirks or issues than any other GM engine. It's pretty well tried and tested. Spend a little time browsing the posts here and you'll get some ideas on things to watch and check. BTW, is the tranny stick or auto?

 

Thanks for the reply.

It's a 1989 GMC jimmy 4x4 with 4.3L Auto

Also, what kind of gas milage can I expect? What size fuel tank?

I know the original EPA listed it 17/21 and the new EPA lists it at 15/20.

- Dan M

 

The 'new' EPA estimates are a good ballpark range. It really depends on your foot. I believe that year had a 20 gallon tank in it.

 

For me, it's not so much a heavy foot as it is slow long drives. Some of the areas I fish are far from the nearest gas station. One area takes 40-60 minutes on gravel roads driving about 15 mph just to get to the paved road. Then it's a good 25 miles to the nearest gas station. It's good to know if I should fill up at the last station or take some with me.

Thanks for the quick replies.

I'll continue to read previous posts here.

- Dan M

 

Well I always say better safe than sorry, fill up a 5 gallon gas can and bring it along the first trip...........if you don't need it more gas for the lawn mower lol.