Looking for a decent vw rabbit pick up, south west/west coast Options

[orange914]

I'm on the hunt for a decent diesel VW Rabbit pick up. I'm learning more than I really wanted to know on these things. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

One of the main things that I'm zero'd in on is finding a solid mechanical drive train. decent body, paint not a real deal breaker.

Any help finding one is greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Mike

[Cap'n Krusty]

Before you get all nutso on a Rabbit diesel, remember that there are essentially NO cylinder heads available anywhere, and the heads are the weak point. In most cases, high mileage cylinder heads are not rebuildable, at least by any machinist with an ounce of integrity. You might be able to fine one of the elusive 1.9 Brazilian diesel engines, although I couldn't a few years ago. Of course, you could always put an early TDi engine in it, electronics and all. Later ones have to use the instrument cluster that came with the engine, making the job somewhat more complex.

The Cap'n

[orange914]

Before you get all nutso on a Rabbit diesel, remember that there are essentially NO cylinder heads available anywhere, and the heads are the weak point. In most cases, high mileage cylinder heads are not rebuildable, at least by any machinist with an ounce of integrity. You might be able to fine one of the elusive 1.9 Brazilian diesel engines, although I couldn't a few years ago. Of course, you could always put an early TDi engine in it, electronics and all. Later ones have to use the instrument cluster that came with the engine, making the job somewhat more complex.

The Cap'n

That crossed my mind. I know of a low mile 05' TDI that was stuffed under a truck. Too much work unless I could find a really nice pick up cheap. Probably not. I understand 04' down is less electronics...???

I'm just looking for a solid occasional driver.