Offroad-Express

I'm quite new to off roading but absolutely love it. My first driving experience was off road down near Greenstone in the South island, since then I have always preferred being off road but have not had the chance to do it as much as I would like.

That's why I am getting rid of my car and looking for a Hilux Surf, I've been told that the models of 1994-1996 are quite good, I've also decided to go with automatic but plan on installing a transmission cooler before pushing it through too much. Of course Diesel/Turbo...

There are a few on trademe around $5000 - $6000 that look okay, but I really have no idea what I am looking for.

If it does not have these parts already I plan on installing a winch bar, someone was suggesting installing a winch on both ends?
Snorkel
Transmission cooler
Roof Box

If there is any advice that anyone would care to share in helping me get started on my off road adventures and any advice in helping me choose a good Hilux please pass on the knowledge as I don't have many friends that have ever driven down a dirt road before haha...

I am also moving to Queenstown late may so I really need a car that can get me wherever I need to go in the South Island.

Thanks for your time and advice, hopefully get to meet some of you at some off road events once I get myself a suitable Hilux.

Peace.

TDi Discovery 1 could also be a good simple option, with the added bonus of cheap easy to get parts and a live front axle

Concentrate on the mechanical condition of the vehicle as apposed to it's age and Odometer reading.

Assume the speedo has been wound back.
Assume it's been stuck in water up to the door handles.
Assume that a previous owner has tried to drive like an arab up a sand dune.
Assume that it's been over heated.
Assume the last time it got an oil change was when it was imported.

(the general rules when looking at japanese 4wds.)

If after that it still looks good to you you've probably found a pretty good one.

What that means is you need to allow about 1k for mechanical repairs at least.

Unless you have receipts the entire cooling system will be due for replacement as well as diff's, gearbox, air, oil, fuel filters etc.

Possibly a wheel bearing and a set of pads or rotors.

If its got recent receipts for the above work then it should be a good one. If not these will need to be done.

After that its lift, tires, bars etc.

Enjoy!
Matt