Today I purchased my first Suzuki, a 1988 Samurai Convertible. It is totally stock with 93,000 miles. It drives well, cruises at 70mph, tracks and brakes straight and has no rust. It shifts well and 4WD LO and HI seem to function correctly. Even the aftermarket radio works. The body and frame is straight. The state inspection is good for a few more months.ÂÂ
Of course it has some issues.
The paint is fair with some oxidation on the hood and the clear coat peeling off on the front bumpers. Hopefully it will polish up OK. It needs a new convertible top. The driving compartment is covered but the top is split along the frame over the tailgate. The AC is not working. The check engine light is on intermittently. The battery is almost 7 years old. The front and rear bumpers are a bit dented.ÂÂ
I took it to the local Just Brakes and they took the wheels off and gave it a free visual inspection. The rear brake shoes were 100% but one of the wheel cylinders were leaking. The front brake pads were 10% on the left and 20% on the right. They said the left front hub had a little to much play in it- perhaps a bearing problem? The rotors can probably be machined. The mismatched all weather tires have good tread left but are starting to crack from age. One of the shock absorbers appeared to be leaking a little and they recommended replacement of all four. They seem to be absorbing the shocks alright to me though. The sides of the seat upholstery are wearing through but the seat facings are in great shape.
I think to start with I will replace the battery, the front pads, the wheel cylinder, and the top.
I plan on using this vehicle at my deer hunting lease and keeping the vehicle there most of the time. Its about an hour from where I live in Austin, Texas and about 30 minutes from the nearest town. I want to make sure its in good shape and reliable so that I won't get stranded at the far end of the ranch on a narrow rocky trail.
I would appreciate any opinions on a good checklist to prepare my Samurai for the trails. For now I am going to try to stay fairly stock and not do a lift kit. The trails at my lease are not nearly as bad as some of the places I see on this sight.
What is the deal on these Optima batteries? Will they stay charged longer than a Diehard?
Where can I get a rifle rack for a Samurai? Who makes the best replacement top? Where is the best place to get a sevice manual? Are there any good books about modifying Samurais?
I have been lurking on this sight for a while. It got me fired up to search out and purchase my Samurai. I am really looking forward to getting it out on the trails.