The basics for P38A ownership

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Originally Posted by davidsonsm

It'll be a well cared for example if the headlight wash wiper blades are in good condition (assuming HSE). And the handbrake gator isn't cracked i.e. its been replaced. All you need to look for. :p

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It takes 5 mins with a pair of side cutters to trim any wiper refill to fit both headlight wipers. Find an old screen wiper and just cut a good section out, free and saves the planet. Sorry but not a very good sign of good maintenance. I look for the plenum foam on the air intake, a vast majority of cars I look at have none left. $3 to fix but a bit of effort involved

Wayne - was meant to be a throw away tongue in cheek comment. But there is some truth to it. The plenum filter is also a good indicator. If these things check out, it's a pretty good start point. Of course, you gotta do the due diligence, but if those three things were bang on, I bet the rest of the car would be pretty sorted.

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Originally Posted by Hoges

There are two versions of the P38a.. those often referred to as a "GEMS" model (General Engine Management System) and those (post mid 1999) known as the "Thor" (Bosch) version. The switch over was VIN....Xa410481(Last of the GEMS) ....Xa410482 (first of the Bosch). This reflected the "upgrade" of the V8 engine (not more power)... accompanied by 4-pin diffs, a revised WABCO ABS system, a revised ZF gearbox (4HP24) and sundry other "improvements".

Given their age, you would probably do better to find a later model (1999-2002). The 2001/2002 run-out models appear to have been imported with the high compression engines (9.1:1) which are somewhat more sprightly than the low compression versions (8.37:1).

Some later model D2s came with the high compression 4.6 V8. Also the D2 has more effective room in the back for storing stuff. The classic look of the Rangie with its sloping tail gate is "nice" but somewhat impractical for packing and installing drawer systems etc.

With a late model D2 you may have a better power to weight ratio which will assist in the towing department.

as for other issues I agree with the previous posters:angel:;)

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The Thor came out with the introduction of the 1999MY cars. The last Gems was WA410481 - W indicating 1998MY.


All 4.6 P38s had the 4HP24 gearbox too.

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Originally Posted by 4X4V8

I thought the D2 was 4.0 only in Aus??? In the USA, 4.6 yes, (I think) but not here. Do tell...

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Correct, only 4.0 here. The last P38s 4.6s were high compression but I'm not sure the D2s were.

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Originally Posted by 4X4V8

I am not far away from (finally) buying a P38A.

I am trying to get my head around what is required for relatively hassle-free ownership.

I was thinking:

A Nanocom;
Schreider valves in the EAS as documented in various locations;
What else?

I want to build a vehicle that I can tow a caravan anywhere in Australia and fix the RR as required on the road.

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I bought mine to drive, not to be a show pony. I read all these stories on this site about what can go wrong, but never about what doesnt. Why spend all the money on stuff you may never use and just because somebody here says you need one. If it brakes down so be it, get it fixed and dont worry about it.Mine has a few cosmetic issues, but they will get fixed, i dont panic about it. I am learning every day more abou mine.

Just get one and enjoy it.

Yes, I just need to buy one! It is interesting to see how cheap pre-update cars have become, while the update (visually, so 2000-2001) still command big bucks. I have wasted enough damn bandwidth here. I'll report next time only when I own one. Thanks so much guys for such valuable input.

Fair enough!;) ...and good luck with your quest. Given you will be towing a van, a long range (replacement) tank (~155L) might be a good idea.
cheers