1987 Dodge Raider review from North America

Choke and Float are a little sticky.

Replaced PCV valve at 175000 miles.

Replaced voltage regulator at 180000 miles.

Electric switch for back gate lock no longer functioning.

Some weather stripping deterioration.

Rust on bumpers and windshield wiper arms.

A very easy vehicle for a "shade tree mechanic" to work on, with simple, nicely laid out systems and plenty of room to turn wrenches under the hood. Just watch out for oil pooling in the skid plate after removing the oil filter, or you'll be smelling it later.

Incredibly reliable. Always starts, even in the middle of winter with 180,000 miles on the original engine.

Remarkable body integrity, with minimal rust on the original body, mainly confined to bumpers. And this is after being subjected to 15 years of Wisconsin's salt-laden winter roads.

Road handling, such as acceleration and cornering ability on the poor side, but this is more than compensated for by outstanding off-road performance. This vehicle has conquered jeep trails across the country, as well as enabling much field work to be accomplished in remote areas without the slightest hint of a problem.