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Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 04:13
by Fatboy
Tx for the replies.
Jules, this is exactly the same spec as you described. Did the UN import them directly into SA? Could this mean the colour is standard?
The lack of a service history bothers me, but the pics show extremely low interior wear and tear which indicates that the odo reading of 170 000km might be genuine.
Anybody in the Vanderbijl area that works/inspects cars for red wine/brandy/beer?

Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 08:21
by Grant
Hi Fatboy,
Contact Deejay at La Sport Vaal. He will gladly assist you. 016932 1040/1/2
Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 08:41
by Jules
Hi Fatboy
I have the brochure on those Patrols I will have a look if black was one of the colours, will only be tonight when I get home. I am sure one of our Financial Directors at StefStocks had one of them, he is all day in meetings but I will see if I can chat to him.
Find out from the owner whether he at least had the oil etc changed every 10 - 15K seeing that there is no service history , he might still have the invoices somewhere. When I bought my GQ there also was not a complete service history in the service manual but at least the owner kept all his service slips.
Shalom
Jules
Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 09:07
by Peter Connan
Sometimes one just has to close your eyes and leap.
If there is genuinely no history, ask if you can take the car to a mechanic and have him do a compression test. The combination of this, the condition of the plugs and the oil pressure gauge should give you a fair idea of the engine's condition. It would also be helpfull if you can have a buddy or family member follow you when you test drive it to check for smoke. Listen out for any noises from the transmission, and check for vibrations (look at the rear view mirrors while driving) and oil leaks. You will have to look carefully, as the car wil probably have been extensively vale'd. while you are at the mechanic's have him check the oil level of the diffs and gearboxes and make sure there is no water in the oils. Remove one of the bottom bolts on the knuckle flanges, and probe the hole with a piece of wire. There should be no oil or grease there and no significant water either.
Obviously also check the engine oil (level and water content) and coolant (level, anti freeze and signs of oil or bubbles when running).
While I always advise an investigation of the service history, I bought my car without any service history whatsoever.
Remember that this is an old car and there are bound to be some small issues, just make sure you are aware of them and the cost of repairing them.
Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 09:12
by Fatboy
Tx Jules,
I found a picture on an obscure website that looks exactly like this one, down to the charcoal trim. It had a Middle East looking number plate so I assume the colour scheme is original.
But any further assistance is appreciated.
The seller bought it very recently from an estate, with the purpose to re-sell it. So a service history is pie-in-the-sky at this moment.

Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 09:15
by Fatboy
Tx Peter, sometimes a leap of faith is required.
At least I have a great mechanic.....
Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 09:26
by Jules
Hi Peter how much vibration is one suppose to see in the rearview mirror before it is time to rebalance the driveshaft?propshaft?
Shalom
Jules
Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 09:43
by Peter Connan
Jules any propshaft vibration should be sorted. A broken U-Joint is not a nice thing at all.
However there will be other vibrations that may also be visible in the mirror.
Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 13:44
by Fatboy
And then he went and sold the Patrol to someone else...
Just a shout-out to DJ from LA Sport Vdb who was more than willing to go and look at the vehicle for me. That man deserves a Bell's. As well as a lot of customers.
Re: 1996 Patrol Query
Posted: 28 Sep 2011 14:02
by Jules
Dont despair Fatboy obviously this Patrol was not meant for you, every now and then good one's pop up one must just wait patiently for the correct one. I waited over 2 years to get the correct one
Shalom
Jules