I do not have the TSB in front of me as it was saved in my archive emails. I will look for it and email it to you. Brill... don't let the mechanics tell you that they could not feel any vibration. Ride with them while they do the test drive. The mechanic at my dealer felt nothing at first also until I rode with them on the test drive. I don't remember the exact date but the TSB does not apply for every Montero, only certain manufactured dates. Also, the TSB calls for the dealer to balance the tires first before replacing the driveline. My dealer also never heard of any driveline problem if I didn't had that TSB in my hand. So, don't give up.... Pursue your driveline problem with the dealer. It definitely exist on some models.
I am considering buying a Montero. I am a single mother with two children. I will NOT be off roading; I just like the looks of the vehicle. What kind of problems do you have ON THE ROAD? Is the Montero a family friendly vehicle or is its main purpose to go off road? Do you have any comments toward this purchase? Maybe comments, good or bad, about other SUVs to consider.
Here is a TSB on year 2002 Mitsubishi letterhead regarding propeller shaft and vibration. It seems, though, that it only relates if the driveshaft has been removed for service.
Ok, I found the TSB that I used to replace my driveline vibration. The TSB applies only to 2001 Montero produced before 05/29/00. Check your manufactured date if it applies
Thanks Drew (dski) for anwering my question regarding K&N air filter.
Has anyone try to replace the factory CD player with a new head unit? I don't have the Infiniti system on my XLS and it doesn't sound too good. I am planning on replacing the factory head unit with an Alpine. Is it difficult to pull the head unit out? Thanks in advance.
Yeah, a minivan has a "beautiful" rear independent suspension. I will give you that. For an off-roader, the Montero has ZERO wheel travel from it's minivan-suspension.
BTW, brill, the GX470 and 4Runner scored the HIGHEST in the "Trail" section of the FourWheeler magazine! Not just "Highway."
Thank you both for the TSB info. I guess my last message did not post so will repeat.
Called dealership to discuss with owner. The 1-800 Mitsu help line advised either turning in dealer compliant or going to another dealer. The owner seemed interested in helping especially when he heard about the TSB and will be calling the factory rep for authorization to repair based on my feelings that it is out of balence.
Interesting that I reported the vibration at 45-50 and at 60-65 and that the TSB states reports between 40-50. I got to believe that the Service manager knows about these TSB's?
Have you been keeping up with technology. The construction of the Montero has resulted in a better handling SUV. The old rail frame construction is a thing of the past now.
As far as articulation, yes you give up some with independent suspenion but that is not stopping companies from going to it for better overall performance. The Montero has been sited as having some of the longest rear arms giving it more articulation than some. If you look at your article and in the recent review of the H2 on TV all the vehicles lifted a tire during off road testing. Thats not that important unless you are doing real extreme things that only a jeep should do. The Montero has never even come close to getting stuck in any test I have read, it has generally been highly complimented on its off road ability and comfort on trail and roads
By the way, the new 4runner was reviewed on Speed TV last night. Suprisingly, despite the increased lenght and width they stated it had too much body roll. They liked both motors but only the V6 gets acceptable gas mileage. I think the looks are not as nice as the last generation, especially that ugly hood but that's just my opinion. The inside still looks to be smaller than the Montero (one of the reasons I didnt go with a 4 runner) and there is no third seat. I know, the Montero seat is only good for kids but I have definitly used it and, if you take it out, you get additional storage under the floor, that's real nice.
Yes, the Montero does have a very nice interior. Don't get me wrong from my posts, i do like the Montero...the interior is very nice. However, with you going on and on (without listening to any arguments) about Toyota's 4wd system, i felt it was necessary to bring you down to reality.
Too many assumptions from you...too many times that you just don't read the arguments...and too little reason...makes this a useless argument.
Better handling??!! Ahhh, didn't the Montero do really bad for Consumer Reports?? Dude, read ANY review of the Montero, and they will say how MUCH it's body roll is!!! Also, look at the roadholding. And you're comparing it to the 4Runner?? Are you kidding me?? That's being really biased and blind!
Here are some qoutes from the article you sited that support what I have been saying all along. And dont get me wrong. I believe Toyota makes fine products but they are currently not quite there yet.
From Four Wheeler Feb 03
" The power of the V-8 propelled it to the top of most dunes with ease-as long as the Vehicle Skid Control system was turned off. Leave it on, and the 4Runner instantly bogged."
"Just like the 4Runner the Lexus was low to the ground and this was an issue on the trail. Adding insult to injury were the GX 470's running boards,which exacerbated clearance issues. In fact, by the end of the test the runing boards had seen more than their share of geolithic modification."
" Another gripe was the traction control system. As with the 4Runner, engaging this requires far too much wheelspin. This is espedcially an issue on slow-speed technical sections of the trail, where wheelspin never is welcomed."
OK, now if you keep saying I am making this stuff up I am going to believe you are a Toyota Sales Rep.
I went to the Toyota dealer on the way home and sat in the new 4 Runner and had a long discussion with the Sales person. Interestingly he likes the Montero, and explained the Sequoia and 4Runner to me. I might give an update if I can get my 3 year old in bed for a nap. Otherwise, everyone, yes even IntMed, have a safe New Years. I will be on the road all night in my Montero hitting the snow in Southern OR and Northern CA, may even get to Tahoe if I can get around those Toyotas getting stuck out there......just kidding
Define what you want but if I could make a suggestion. I dont know your price range and I will be a little sexist here but try the new Volvo and then go from there. It is supposed to be an awsome SUV and should be very safe. It might be the best on the road, off roading with it should be fine to some degree but you are not looking for that.
Fourwheeler mentioned that the rear fender could catch sand if deep enough but I dont believe they actually pulled it off. I already stated about that I am not too happy with the fenders. The 03 are actually an improvement. They tucked up the side step as well. Higher than most SUV that have them.
Wheelspin: again, every electronically controlled system in the review was weak in this respect....AND...if you remember I said I would be one of the first to be critical of the system on the New Montero if it doesnt work. I still dont know too much about it.
Interesting you mention "turn it off". I was at the dealer today. Sat in a Limited. The salesperson said there were switches to turn off the VSC and TRAC and that one of these, the TRAC I think, was added this year and the Sequoia does not have this feature. When he went to show me these switches all we could find was the center lock.
Also, It seems that the brochure states the V8 comes in Full Time and a 5 speed the V6 with multi mode and 4 Speed. I could not really get the difference here and there did not seem to be an option listed that allowed interchange of these trannies and different 4wd systems. Also, buyers need to be aware that the Limited is supposedly lower to the ground than the SR5/Sport addition per the dealer. I would have them show you the switches, the salesperson couldnt find them.
The approach, departure, breakover and ground clearence taken together are not as good as the Montero in stock condition it seems and with my ARB spings/shocks definitely no match.
The inside did not feel that much bigger to me but it is very nice.
One thing people dont speak about much is how good the visability is out of the Montero. The JGC, Ford, 4Runner, Sequoia all are far less comfortable in this respect. I recommend potential buyers to consider this, I have rally grown to appretiate the view.
The engine config on the Toyota is better in my opinion, that is, if you even work on your own rig. Seems that lately I have been limited to oil changes.
Milage on the 4 Runner 4wd V8 is 19mpg highway, V6 is 20.
The hood didnt look as bad in person as on the picture but it will be as controversial as when the new Montero came out. Personally I still get comments from others who really like the styling. It just seems, 4 runner aside, that the newer Toyotas have gone to a boring, rounded look. The new 4 runner seems to break this trend thank you.
Anyway, this is sounding like a toyota link rather then the Montero but I am glad we can throw this stuff out there for the heck of it.
Could you recap the K&N filter issue, I would like to replace my air filter now, I have had K&N products before, more costly, but can be cleaned and supposedly more air flow.
Dealership owner discussed my concerns with area rep. Apparently there must have been just enough reports like mine to take me more serious as he has agreed to replace the driveshaft. They cant test it which is a shame because all I really want is reassurance of what I am sensing and if the driveshaft is not out of balence I dont want to replace it.
Will keep everyone posted if this seems to make any difference.
"For an off-roader, the Montero has ZERO wheel travel from it's minivan-suspension."
Now I know for sure that this guy does not know what he is talking about. The Montero rear suspension has more than enough suspension travel for off-road condition
It seems that in going to a rear independent suspension that you do loose some travel (but gain in all other areas) but the Montero has longer rear arms than some others to minimize this.
Every review I have read commented on lifting the Montero tires off the ground but then stated that nothing seems to stop its progression. Also, if you look at these reviews you find pictures of lifing wheels off the ground for most if not all the vehicles in the test. In reality, only a specialized jeep is going to stay planted on all 4's.
I predict that just about everyone will go to some form of independent suspension over time.
brillmtb, You are right. IRS suspension is the way of the future. Btw, I saw the 03 Montero at the LA autoshow. They improve an annoyed and costly problem of the Montero; the spark plugs on the 03 can now be removed without removing the intake manifold. But I have sticker shock! A loaded Monte Limited now stickered at 39.9K!! Suddenly the new VW SUV is so attractive. Oops, that VW is 53K!!
There are a lot of nice SUV coming out and I have heard that more diesel motors may be offered. That is going to create all kinds of choices.
I sort of like the new volvo. If I had and extra 50K sitting around I would love to park my wife in one. She gets tired of me getting the Montero "dirty".
BTW, have you noticed how much flex comes from the stock tires, its incredible. The sidewalls must be made out of paper. I am thinking of going to 6 ply tires to eliminate it but kind of concerned that the ride would be too stiff. I have a friend with a JGC who went with 6 ply, definitly stiffer but he said the cornering and slop was greatly improved.
I also have 2 kids and just purchased an 03 LTD. I shopped this to death and here's what I think. The Montero has everything we wanted and is very luxurious at the same time. I don't mind sitting in either front seat. both are very comfortable and heated. The kids love the back seat. Tons of storage in the seat pockets for their stuff. The flip down arm rest w/ cup holders helps define their space. If we go on a long trip, they can each have their own row. The 3rd row flip & fold seat is pretty painless to use. What ultimately sold us were all of the upgrades for 03 without much of a price increase. Hope it helps. Good Luck
I recently purchased an 03. The information center in the center of the dash is faint with the headlights off and bright with the headlights on. This seems totally backwards to me. We can hardly see it during the daylight.(even if adjusted on the brightest setting) Is this the way it is?(so that we use our headlights all the time) Or is mine defective? Thanks
"have you noticed how much flex comes from the stock tires"
I am going to replace tires on my 02 pretty soon. Tires with harder side wall probably will improved handling. I am even considering choosing a lower aspect ratio tires, but probably stay with stock size tires and stiffer side wall to retain the ground clearance.
Yes, you should be able to adjust the brightness, with both the headlights on and off. I don't remember the details, but it is fairly simple, and the same basic procedure in both conditions. Go through it with the lights off, and again with the lights on.
I am seriously considering the Bridgestone Deuler A/T Revo's in the stock size or 75 series, 6 ply, when they become available. Seems they have rated #1 on the Tire Rack and the Yok Geo A/T seems to wear out a little faster than expected (source: Tire Rack and another tire store). There seems to be a large backorder due to demand.
I agree, even new aftermarket tires in SL (standard load) will improve the ride considerably. It seems OEM tires have very soft sidewalls. Too soft for an SUV IMO.
Did they explain what happens with the switch off?
i.e. what capabilities does the Montero have with it off. I would imagine there is no LSD on the 03 if they have gone fully electronic. Does breaking turn off the Yaw control.
I would not be suprised if the dealer doesnt know the answer.
Had the pleasure of testing a few things on the ice in Tahoe last weekend. It appears that the antilock brakes do work in the following settings.
2wd, 4wd Hi, 4wd Lock. Did not have time to test 4wd Lo Lock. That is nice because I think some newer SUV antilock dont work in 4wd if I remember correctly.
You'll be happy with Bridgestone Duelers AT. I had mine for almost 8 months now with 10K miles and just had my tire shop rotated it today. It still looks like brand new with even wear all around.
Thanks for the tires tip. I probably go for the Dueler in a counple of weeks. Anyways, the week before I was up to mount Charlestone in vegas, run in to some ice in the parking lot with my worn-out tires, and when I braked hard, the ABS did kick in. Otherwise the truck just go on like nothing had happened, while other SUV and truck (2WD)have hard-time with wheel spins.
I'd be interested in your opinion on going with SL (4 ply) vs 6 ply. I have heard that most OEM tires are very soft both in treadwear and sidewall. A new aftermarket 4 ply is supposedly going to make the vehicle drive better. What ply did you go with and did you actually notice this difference the Tire Rack salesperson told me of?
Update on the Dueler Revo A/T: Tire Rack states backordered in 265/75-16 (6 ply) and 265/70-16 (4 ply). My local shop says "bridgestone is having a 4 for the price of 3" and that they will match any price. If true other dealers near you may do the same.
At first I was going to go with the 75 series but didn't feel any need for the slightly approx 1 inch taller tires. Plus it looks a lot skinnier compared to the 70 series due to its added height. Second, I'm not sure if it will rub and if it will still fit with the rear tire cover.
I went with the 4-ply 265/70-16 and really didn't notice any difference with the ride comfort compared to stock. I've always run it at 35psi and still very comfortable.
The only noticeable difference is the added noise of the tire due to its larger lugs compared to the stock one. I'd say about 10% increased in the tire noise.
If I were to buy another set, I would still go with the A/T Duelers.
I somehow manage to blow out my right brake light bulb. I was trying to replace it today but oh !! boy, it's a pain to remove the housing. It just won't budge out. I was afraid of using excessive force for fear of braking the entire housing. Has anyone tried replacing their brake light bulbs? What's the secret of removing the housing.
Thanks to those who answered my Info Center question. I must have only adjusted the brightness w/ lights on. I thought I had adjusted the brightness with them on and off but I guess not. My bad.
I don't know what happens when the M-ASTC is switched off in the 03. I'll have to see what the manual says about it. Your absolutely right about the dealership and salesman not knowing. The salesman that I bought from couldn't tell me anything about the SUV that I didn't already know. And couldn't answer the couple of questions that I did have.
The question is if it controls the Yaw control and/or Traction control. Yaw correcting a slide and traction shifting power to tires not slipping.
If it is turned off what is left. There probably is no LSD rear so perhaps you are left with power to one rear and one front tire?
Does the Yaw control "turn off" if you panic brake in corners.
Having just been on the ice in Tahoe I really think nothing substitutes for slowing down, hoping there isnt any slope involved and not having anything in front of you. Last year I was able to slide by a wreck with the antilock breaks effectivly not being able to slow me, just too slick. Had to go between a flipped over 4 runner on my left and a slidding out of control suburban on my right on a mountain road. Boy, that was fun. I wasnt even following the burb that close (or let me say, it didnt seem so until I tried to stop, it alway amazes me how far you can slide on ice even going slow)
I have a 2001 Montero limited with 49000 miles. The rear left wheel indicator light does not light up on my display. Has anyone else had this problem? I am thinking that it is just the light that is out. When I went in for an oil change last week, I was told that the rear brake rotors need to be resurfaced. (I just had brake work done a few months ago at another place - I'll have to go back and be sure that the front and not the rear brakes were worked on.) I don't think that this would affect the indicator light.
On another note, I recently went in to my insurance company office to discuss auto insurance premiums. My daughter will get her drivers license in July and she wants a Mitsubishi Eclipse. They calculated that the insurance on the eclipse would be $400 more per year than on a Honda civic. They said the rates on all Mitsubshi's are higher. (I thought the reason for the difference was because the eclipse was considered a sports vehicle.) With two teenage drivers, I don't know if I can afford the additional insurance costs.
I'm also interested in finding that out. Mine is the right rear wheel that is busted. It's been out for about a month now. I hope it's just the LED inside.
My brothers montero went out as well as mine. I just had the bulb replaced under warrenty last week. Had them do the r rear as well since I figured that it was going to go our soon. Seems that the bulbs dont last long. They are only indicator bulbs, no real function I was told.
Reliablity: great if you speak with people driving them overseas such as Australia "built like a tank" I have had no serious problems
Air/Heat: blows you out of the car. Heat comes from bottom vents up and cold from top down, real nice
Ergonomics and comfort: Only the Lexus/LC can match it IMO
Power: I have the 01 LTD with rear air. I need more power for towing but going to get a crew cab diesel for that. Short trips with my 16 foot Nash trailer are fine, say 2 hours to the coast or mountains from where I live are fine.
The 03 has more power but I think a small V8 would be better, more torque
Driving around town and "normal" highway driving not a real problem but get in and see if it fits your style.
Size: not too big to park, off road with but big enough to get 5 adults and gear, put a roof top rack and you really have a good set up
Missing: GPS, why I dont know, they were in all the European Montero/Pajeros I saw last summer.
Tranny, 5 speed auto is unbeatable IMO. Manual control over everything. Few 4wd SUV giving such flexability these days.
I've had an 03 LTD w/o premium pkg for about a month. Here's some of my pet peeves:
- Premium Fuel recommended, It needs bigger rims & tires to fill the wheel wells better (even the smaller Oulander comes w/ 16"), No height adjustable seat belt for the rear seat, I love the idea of the seamless, built in, illuminated side steps but I find myself not using them because they are not quite wide or low enough to get my foot comfortably in there. There should be a Navigation & DVD option in this price range. Rear door is maybe a little short
Here's some of my pet kudos: - I prefer the cleaner exterior styling over the 02. Deep Discounts made this the best value for my money and I shopped this to death. Commanding view of the road(its better than any other SUV that I've been in). All the controls are easily reached and are in the logical places. Both front seats are very comfortable & heated (no real long trips yet but I don't forsee any issues with discomfort or fatigue). Awesome 315W Infinity stereo. Wicked huge sunroof. Tons of storage bins, pockets, etc.. The overall quality of the interior is top shelf. 3rd row seat is relatively painless to flip & fold. Engine, Transmission, Brakes, & Handling all seem great. I'm not sure what your towing needs are but the upgrade in HP & Torque for 03 should help. I didn't drive an 02 so I can't say for sure.
Love to know what 'deep discount' you received. I walked away from an 02 Limited last year at invoice minus $3K in factory/dealer incentives. The total was about $6K below MSRP. I probably would have bought it at that price if it had the more powerful motor of the 03. The zero/zero financing is somewhat enticing as well.
Comments
THANKS!!
http://www.nhtsa.gov/TSBScans/sb627082.pdf
Here are some TSB's on 2001's:
Make: MITSUBISHI TRUCK Model: MONTERO Year: 2001
Service Bulletin Number: 67 Bulletin Sequence Number: 182 Date of Bulletin: 02/01
NHTSA Item Number: 618252
Component: STRUCTURE:BODY
Summary:
INFORMATION DIAGNOSING BODY VIBRATION. *JB
http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/problems/tsb/central2.cfm
Has anyone try to replace the factory CD player with a new head unit? I don't have the Infiniti system on my XLS and it doesn't sound too good. I am planning on replacing the factory head unit with an Alpine. Is it difficult to pull the head unit out? Thanks in advance.
BTW, brill, the GX470 and 4Runner scored the HIGHEST in the "Trail" section of the FourWheeler magazine! Not just "Highway."
Called dealership to discuss with owner. The 1-800 Mitsu help line advised either turning in dealer compliant or going to another dealer. The owner seemed interested in helping especially when he heard about the TSB and will be calling the factory rep for authorization to repair based on my feelings that it is out of balence.
Interesting that I reported the vibration at 45-50 and at 60-65 and that the TSB states reports between 40-50. I got to believe that the Service manager knows about these TSB's?
As far as articulation, yes you give up some with independent suspenion but that is not stopping companies from going to it for better overall performance. The Montero has been sited as having some of the longest rear arms giving it more articulation than some. If you look at your article and in the recent review of the H2 on TV all the vehicles lifted a tire during off road testing. Thats not that important unless you are doing real extreme things that only a jeep should do. The Montero has never even come close to getting stuck in any test I have read, it has generally been highly complimented on its off road ability and comfort on trail and roads
By the way, the new 4runner was reviewed on Speed TV last night. Suprisingly, despite the increased lenght and width they stated it had too much body roll. They liked both motors but only the V6 gets acceptable gas mileage. I think the looks are not as nice as the last generation, especially that ugly hood but that's just my opinion. The inside still looks to be smaller than the Montero (one of the reasons I didnt go with a 4 runner) and there is no third seat. I know, the Montero seat is only good for kids but I have definitly used it and, if you take it out, you get additional storage under the floor, that's real nice.
Too many assumptions from you...too many times that you just don't read the arguments...and too little reason...makes this a useless argument.
Better handling??!! Ahhh, didn't the Montero do really bad for Consumer Reports?? Dude, read ANY review of the Montero, and they will say how MUCH it's body roll is!!! Also, look at the roadholding. And you're comparing it to the 4Runner?? Are you kidding me?? That's being really biased and blind!
Here are some qoutes from the article you sited that support what I have been saying all along. And dont get me wrong. I believe Toyota makes fine products but they are currently not quite there yet.
From Four Wheeler Feb 03
" The power of the V-8 propelled it to the top of most dunes with ease-as long as the Vehicle Skid Control system was turned off. Leave it on, and the 4Runner instantly bogged."
"Just like the 4Runner the Lexus was low to the ground and this was an issue on the trail. Adding insult to injury were the GX 470's running boards,which exacerbated clearance issues. In fact, by the end of the test the runing boards had seen more than their share of geolithic modification."
" Another gripe was the traction control system. As with the 4Runner, engaging this requires far too much wheelspin. This is espedcially an issue on slow-speed technical sections of the trail, where wheelspin never is welcomed."
OK, now if you keep saying I am making this stuff up I am going to believe you are a Toyota Sales Rep.
I went to the Toyota dealer on the way home and sat in the new 4 Runner and had a long discussion with the Sales person. Interestingly he likes the Montero, and explained the Sequoia and 4Runner to me. I might give an update if I can get my 3 year old in bed for a nap. Otherwise, everyone, yes even IntMed, have a safe New Years. I will be on the road all night in my Montero hitting the snow in Southern OR and Northern CA, may even get to Tahoe if I can get around those Toyotas getting stuck out there......just kidding
Wheelspin: again, every electronically controlled system in the review was weak in this respect....AND...if you remember I said I would be one of the first to be critical of the system on the New Montero if it doesnt work. I still dont know too much about it.
Interesting you mention "turn it off". I was at the dealer today. Sat in a Limited. The salesperson said there were switches to turn off the VSC and TRAC and that one of these, the TRAC I think, was added this year and the Sequoia does not have this feature. When he went to show me these switches all we could find was the center lock.
Also, It seems that the brochure states the V8 comes in Full Time and a 5 speed the V6 with multi mode and 4 Speed. I could not really get the difference here and there did not seem to be an option listed that allowed interchange of these trannies and different 4wd systems. Also, buyers need to be aware that the Limited is supposedly lower to the ground than the SR5/Sport addition per the dealer. I would have them show you the switches, the salesperson couldnt find them.
The approach, departure, breakover and ground clearence taken together are not as good as the Montero in stock condition it seems and with my ARB spings/shocks definitely no match.
The inside did not feel that much bigger to me but it is very nice.
One thing people dont speak about much is how good the visability is out of the Montero. The JGC, Ford, 4Runner, Sequoia all are far less comfortable in this respect. I recommend potential buyers to consider this, I have rally grown to appretiate the view.
The engine config on the Toyota is better in my opinion, that is, if you even work on your own rig. Seems that lately I have been limited to oil changes.
Milage on the 4 Runner 4wd V8 is 19mpg highway, V6 is 20.
The hood didnt look as bad in person as on the picture but it will be as controversial as when the new Montero came out. Personally I still get comments from others who really like the styling. It just seems, 4 runner aside, that the newer Toyotas have gone to a boring, rounded look. The new 4 runner seems to break this trend thank you.
Anyway, this is sounding like a toyota link rather then the Montero but I am glad we can throw this stuff out there for the heck of it.
Will keep everyone posted if this seems to make any difference.
Now I know for sure that this guy does not know what he is talking about. The Montero rear suspension has more than enough suspension travel for off-road condition
Every review I have read commented on lifting the Montero tires off the ground but then stated that nothing seems to stop its progression. Also, if you look at these reviews you find pictures of lifing wheels off the ground for most if not all the vehicles in the test. In reality, only a specialized jeep is going to stay planted on all 4's.
I predict that just about everyone will go to some form of independent suspension over time.
Btw, I saw the 03 Montero at the LA autoshow. They improve an annoyed and costly problem of the Montero; the spark plugs on the 03 can now be removed without removing the intake manifold. But I have sticker shock! A loaded Monte Limited now stickered at 39.9K!! Suddenly the new VW SUV is so attractive. Oops, that VW is 53K!!
I sort of like the new volvo. If I had and extra 50K sitting around I would love to park my wife in one. She gets tired of me getting the Montero "dirty".
BTW, have you noticed how much flex comes from the stock tires, its incredible. The sidewalls must be made out of paper. I am thinking of going to 6 ply tires to eliminate it but kind of concerned that the ride would be too stiff. I have a friend with a JGC who went with 6 ply, definitly stiffer but he said the cornering and slop was greatly improved.
http://www.fourwheeler.com/roadtests/13258/index3.html
Do you know if any of the traction controlled systems are switchable on/off?
I am going to replace tires on my 02 pretty soon. Tires with harder side wall probably will improved handling. I am even considering choosing a lower aspect ratio tires, but probably stay with stock size tires and stiffer side wall to retain the ground clearance.
I agree, even new aftermarket tires in SL (standard load) will improve the ride considerably. It seems OEM tires have very soft sidewalls. Too soft for an SUV IMO.
i.e. what capabilities does the Montero have with it off. I would imagine there is no LSD on the 03 if they have gone fully electronic. Does breaking turn off the Yaw control.
I would not be suprised if the dealer doesnt know the answer.
2wd, 4wd Hi, 4wd Lock. Did not have time to test 4wd Lo Lock. That is nice because I think some newer SUV antilock dont work in 4wd if I remember correctly.
Anyways, the week before I was up to mount Charlestone in vegas, run in to some ice in the parking lot with my worn-out tires, and when I braked hard, the ABS did kick in. Otherwise the truck just go on like nothing had happened, while other SUV and truck (2WD)have hard-time with wheel spins.
Update on the Dueler Revo A/T: Tire Rack states backordered in 265/75-16 (6 ply) and 265/70-16 (4 ply). My local shop says "bridgestone is having a 4 for the price of 3" and that they will match any price. If true other dealers near you may do the same.
I went with the 4-ply 265/70-16 and really didn't notice any difference with the ride comfort compared to stock. I've always run it at 35psi and still very comfortable.
The only noticeable difference is the added noise of the tire due to its larger lugs compared to the stock one. I'd say about 10% increased in the tire noise.
If I were to buy another set, I would still go with the A/T Duelers.
If it is turned off what is left. There probably is no LSD rear so perhaps you are left with power to one rear and one front tire?
Does the Yaw control "turn off" if you panic brake in corners.
Having just been on the ice in Tahoe I really think nothing substitutes for slowing down, hoping there isnt any slope involved and not having anything in front of you. Last year I was able to slide by a wreck with the antilock breaks effectivly not being able to slow me, just too slick. Had to go between a flipped over 4 runner on my left and a slidding out of control suburban on my right on a mountain road. Boy, that was fun. I wasnt even following the burb that close (or let me say, it didnt seem so until I tried to stop, it alway amazes me how far you can slide on ice even going slow)
did I see my old pal Tidester in this topic, to whom I still owe an "environmental response" to a post back in "I don't like SUVs..."???
Since you didn't reply I concluded that you conceded the point! ;-)
tidester, host
On another note, I recently went in to my insurance company office to discuss auto insurance premiums. My daughter will get her drivers license in July and she wants a Mitsubishi Eclipse. They calculated that the insurance on the eclipse would be $400 more per year than on a Honda civic. They said the rates on all Mitsubshi's are higher. (I thought the reason for the difference was because the eclipse was considered a sports vehicle.) With two teenage drivers, I don't know if I can afford the additional insurance costs.
Air/Heat: blows you out of the car. Heat comes from bottom vents up and cold from top down, real nice
Ergonomics and comfort: Only the Lexus/LC can match it IMO
Power: I have the 01 LTD with rear air. I need more power for towing but going to get a crew cab diesel for that. Short trips with my 16 foot Nash trailer are fine, say 2 hours to the coast or mountains from where I live are fine.
The 03 has more power but I think a small V8 would be better, more torque
Driving around town and "normal" highway driving not a real problem but get in and see if it fits your style.
Size: not too big to park, off road with but big enough to get 5 adults and gear, put a roof top rack and you really have a good set up
Missing: GPS, why I dont know, they were in all the European Montero/Pajeros I saw last summer.
Tranny, 5 speed auto is unbeatable IMO. Manual control over everything. Few 4wd SUV giving such flexability these days.
- Premium Fuel recommended, It needs bigger rims & tires to fill the wheel wells better (even the smaller Oulander comes w/ 16"), No height adjustable seat belt for the rear seat, I love the idea of the seamless, built in, illuminated side steps but I find myself not using them because they are not quite wide or low enough to get my foot comfortably in there. There should be a Navigation & DVD option in this price range. Rear door is maybe a little short
Here's some of my pet kudos:
- I prefer the cleaner exterior styling over the 02. Deep Discounts made this the best value for my money and I shopped this to death. Commanding view of the road(its better than any other SUV that I've been in). All the controls are easily reached and are in the logical places. Both front seats are very comfortable & heated (no real long trips yet but I don't forsee any issues with discomfort or fatigue). Awesome 315W Infinity stereo. Wicked huge sunroof. Tons of storage bins, pockets, etc.. The overall quality of the interior is top shelf. 3rd row seat is relatively painless to flip & fold. Engine, Transmission, Brakes, & Handling all seem great. I'm not sure what your towing needs are but the upgrade in HP & Torque for 03 should help. I didn't drive an 02 so I can't say for sure.
Hope it helps. Good luck!
A person I know of had a 2001 and traded for a 2003 and said it got better fuel economy. She really likes the vehicle.