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Lorry lead

Could you recommend a suitable second-hand basic, reliable twin-cab 4x4 for my school cadet force? It will be used as a safety vehicle when out in the field, so good cross-country performance is essential, and we will also need good load-carrying capacity for the paraphernalia associated with outdoor activities. No electronic "toys" needed, rubber mats and wipe-clean trim preferred.

Asked on 18 April 2009 by

Answered by Honest John
The Isuzu D-Max/Rodeo chain-cam 2.5 I-TEQ has the best engine. That's what we bought. Mitsubishi L200s 2.5s have the strongest suspension, but have timing belt engines. Toyota HiLuxes are very popular, but are also timing belt. Best to avoid Nissan Navara D22s (see www.knackerednavara.co.uk), though Navara D40s are much better and are chain-cam. Mazda BT50s and Ford Rangers are the same vehicle. A lot of local authorities and council contractors use base spec four door crew-cab pick-ups and there is quite a good chance of picking one up at an LCV auction at a BCA or Manheim auction centre.

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