1987 Dodge Raider 2.6 L

Summary:

The Raider rules!!!

Faults:

Had to replace the manifold in October of 2000, It now needs a new pilot bearing at 138,000 miles, so I am replacing the entire clutch to be safe.

The AC finally needs new gaskets and a recharge at 14 years of age.

General Comments:

This car is amazingly reliable and will go places you would never imagine off road. There has NEVER been a time that it wouldn't start.

The Mitsubishi 4 cylinder is probably the most reliable engine ever made, in ALL climates. It is a little slow on the road, but off road, it can go anywhere a Jeep can and is MUCH more comfortable.

Also, you can put a killer sound system in this baby very easily. If only they made new cars as sound as the Raider...

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd July, 2001

15th Oct 2005, 05:38

{{sob) )... You tell them bother. I also own a raider. My frist car buy ever and I prod of it. I was ripped off having to pay 5 grand for it, but I feel its worth every penny. Main problem needs a new clutch and ole leak out of trans.

1988 Dodge Raider

Summary:

Nice truck, but expensive to keep

Faults:

First off I want to say I really love this little truck... although it has had a lot of problems.

- Transmission replaced just out of the warranty.

- Engine replaced.

- I have gone through 3 starters.

- Fan belt "bracket" had to be repaired (the shop was able to weld it so I did not have to replace the unit).

- Emission system went wrong on a long distance trip.

General Comments:

This truck has had a lot of problems, and not just little things either. The engine was about 3000.00, the transmission about 1200.00, the emission system about 1000.00, and these figures make the starter prices seem like bolts and nuts!

I really love this truck... height, durability (the body), looks, and don't want to ever give it up. The bad side is the repairs, and these repairs were done when the truck was young (within the first 7 years). Since then it has been better... either nothing else to replace :) ), or the glitches have been fixed.

My friends that have had this vehicle have had lots of problems... can't vouch for their usage of it, but mine gets regular oil changes, lubes, and I treat it like a kid. Very frustrating to have major repairs shortly after the warranty.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 22nd May, 2001

9th Feb 2002, 11:37

More a question than a comment. Do all of the Dodge Raiders have a Limited Slip Rear Differential? Mine does, I have had it for a short time and love it. Please respond with the answer, my truck is a tank, when I bought it I drove it home about 45 miles, when I got it home I checked the oil, none was in there! But it ran like a champ and never knocked or pinged. My truck has 149,000 Miles. For the answer you can write to Mmcmwalker@aol.com.

3rd Mar 2002, 13:42

This is more of a question rather than a comment. I recently purchased an '88 Dodge Raider. I've done some engine work on it, milled the head, replaced the cam, new lifters, rockers etc.., then timed it as best as I could. Of course I also did all the routine maintenance; oil, new filters and such. I also added a new fuel filter and PCV valve.

It's a 4-speed automatic. The vehicle still lacks a lot of power in the lower gears, yet the tranny seems to operate fine. I've checked the vacuum lines, and I can't think of anything else I can do to increase the power and performance in this awesome looking truck.

If you can help or make a suggestion, please contact me at noshitace@hotmail.com.

Thank you.

5th Apr 2003, 21:15

I've recently rebuilt the engine in my 88 Raider for about $1000.00,witch includes a new clutch kit. The lower priced parts are out there you just need to take the time and look. Since the rebuild I have had no complaints. This has got to be the toughest little tank around.I've also got a simple question, does anyone know where I can get a complete vac. hose schematic just to check if I got them all back in the right place?Oh the reason for the rebuild is during a tune up I found I had 2 cracked valves. It ran for two months after that. Email questions or the answer to CVLion70@aol.com thanks.