1989 Dodge Raider from North America - Comments

At about 100,000 I needed to replace the water pump and while I was at it I replaced the timing belt. Still has all other original parts.

At 80,000 the steering gearbox started leaking. I had to disassemble and repair with a gasket kit.

This is the most reliable car I have ever owned. I have had it now 11 years. It still starts and runs like the day I drove it off the showroom floor (it's a little less powerful but the gas mileage is as good as ever).

I recommend you replace the rear differential fluid with synthetic gear lube every 15,000 miles and ALWAYS add the slip modifier from the dealer each time or you'll grind up your differential.

The only bad thing is that since so few of these were made, parts are very expensive. They wanted $2500 for a new steering gearbox. Obviously, instead I rebuilt it for $30 in gaskets. If you are not opposed to getting parts from junkyard providers when necessary, this is a great truck.

Hi, I too own a dodge raider and find it to be a o.k. automobile. I live in Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada and the 4x4 is a real help in the winter. My main concern is the gas mileage I'm getting.

Gas prices hear are about $0.65 per liter and I'm getting about 90-100 km for $10.00 does that sound right. I have replaced the head 3 times, 1 water pump, and other wise just basic maintenance. Its a 1987 2.6L, I've done many after market changes too it. It has a metelic blue paint job, 33inch tires, stainless steel bumpers, a bush guard and after market stereo system.

Thanks

Dave.

I have had many crazy off-roading experiences with my Raider. I have a problem with my head gaskets always blowing out. Please if you can give me some advise on how to prevent this. Its a 4 cylinder 1987 2.6Lt with 110,000 km. On a nice cool evening she'll spin her tires at a dead stop for about 7 seconds I don't see any jeeps, trackers or any other toys doing that (ONE HELL OF A VEHICLE)

Thanks The Kid.

I am happy with my 89 V6 Raider although the price of parts here in Canada is exorbitant. I am the 2nd owner and soon after purchase 9 years ago,had to replace a slipping clutch. The previous owner pulled a trailer with a "light" aluminum fishing boat.

I now have 232000 Km. on it and am awaiting delivery of my 3rd set of front shocks. The biggest trouble is road salt. I have had to have professional repairs done under the back door where the metal rusted through and last summer I replaced the gas tank that had rusted from the top due to road salt sitting there. (US$1000 with fuel pump & gauge sender, but without vapour condensers) I have removed the rear bumper because it acts as a giant salt magnet.

Hey! I have an 87 Raider and I am piecing it back together. I have everything pretty much done except for a gas tank. The tank that is on there leaks at the seam in the middle. I had a different gas tank and then when I took it off of the Montero that I bought for parts it leaked in the exact same place. I need a gas tank and soon would be nice. Please email me at ruler_1001@hotmail.com if you know where I can purchase a new one or if someone has a decent new one that can somehow get to Northern Minnesota. Thanks - Alex -

I too have an '89 Raider that I consider the best vehicle I've ever owned. Bought it new in '89, it currently has 139,000+ miles on it and runs great. What seems to be a commonality is I've had to replace the steering gearbox, and have had a leaking gas tank for the last few years. If anybody can give me a lead into getting some parts (side mirrors, dash switches etc.) I'd appreciate it.

I have a 1988 Raider that I will most likely part out because the engine seized and I cannot afford to fix it. I am in Saskatchewan. If any of you are interested in parts post here. I do not have Internet at home so it might take a week or so before I get access to a computer with Internet again.