1988 AMC Grand Wagoneer review from North America

Alternator, front axle (my own fault!), brake system, gas tank rusted off, water pump, carb rebuild, small leak from the rear main seal and front axle pinion shaft seal.

Generally a great truck. It has begun to show its age as rust is beginning to appear in the usual places for this vehicle.

It is my favorite to drive around town on errands out of my 5 vehicles. It is also very good off-road despite its size. The turning radius is very tight so it handles switchbacks with ease. It has spent a lot of time camping and off-road in the mountains of NM, CO & AZ as well as the north woods of WI and the U.P. of MI.

I can get a decent 15-16 mpg on the highway but it drops to a dismal 10mpg in town. Aero (out of CA) makes a great, easy to install 36 gallon replacement gas tank. Money well spent, much better than the 20 gallon stock unit!

Although not fast on the street by any means, the engine is excellent for four wheeling off-road or towing with lots of torque down low, both of which mine has done quite a bit. The ride is firm and a bit bouncy (I added stiffer springs and shocks for towing), but overall it's enjoyable.

The interior is comfortable and great for long distance drives. Cargo is also not a problem, with the rear seat folded, it swallows full-size sheets of plywood/paneling/drywall, etc. I do not plan on selling this one for a newer SUV. Next winter it is going to get a complete restoration and be put back to work once complete.