Oil leak at crank seal.
Broken exhaust pipe at manifold.
Flimsy bumpers.
I bought my Trooper as a cheap 4X4 to get around in our snowy Spokane winters, and have gotten much more value than I expected.
Every part on this rig is original (except consumables: clutch, water pump, brakes, belts, hoses, wipers, and tires) ; I mean EVERYTHING is original.
I add a quart of oil every week because the front seal leaks at idle and average 19 mpg. I used to get 26 mpg on the highway, but motor has lost a little compression.
Doesn't seem like she'll need her first valve job any time soon... the 2.3 motor is amazingly durable and has a great head gasket.
I love the glossy original paint and the styling of the 2 door model. With fat tires, she reminds me of the old 1960's Broncos.
I make full use of the roomy interior and convenient tumble-down rear seat. The swing-open doors are fine as there are no gas struts to wear out and the glass has a defroster and wiper with washer.
I have owned dozens of vehicles over the years, and the Trooper is the one that has withstood the test of time.
I have a 1986 trooper with 200000 miles. I bought it 4 years ago, with 160000. nothing has broken. its still perfect. the most reliable car I ever owned. i even take it out to the dessert and am still amazed by where I can go off road. its not a pretty car, but especially for an out doors man its perfect if you don't have much cash to spend.
I have an 1986 Trooper 2 LS that I bought a year ago. All the trucks that I have ever owned the trooper has taken me through some of the most rough off-road experiences that I have ever seen. The Troopers in my opinion are the best 4x4s on the market.