Best Used SUV for 4-5K price range

[Fitz98]

I have had a 98 Expedition 5.4 4x4 for the last 4 years or so, and it has treated me pretty well for the most part. I have put a fair amount of money into it for rust related issues (new rear end suspension, new rotors, new shocks, dealing with rusted cat converters, etc). I am in the process of replacing the transfer case. I bought the truck with 129K miles on it, and when the rear suspension fell out because of rust, the transfer case was replaced with a higher mileage one, now it is starting to grind and show signs of catastrophic failure in the near future.

So now with 170K miles, I am starting to get concerned about engine, exhaust and transmission potential issues in the future.
My question to the forum is, what are your favorite older SUV's in the 4-5K price range for towing and overall performance and lack of mechanical problems other than basic maintenance stuff.

I want to stay with an enclosed SUV type vehicle since I put tools in it, and I need good dependable strong towing and suspension for when I tow my 14 foot trailer for bigger jobs (About 6-7 thousand pounds)
Would also like a 4x4 with higher than standard suspension, like my 98 Expedition, but not anything like a lift kit type truck.

I would also be curious about the forums experience with 4x4 vehicles, vs 4x2. I sometimes travel up north and with the one winter I had to deal with, the 4x4 was quite helpful, but realistically, I haven't used it at all just to work and tow my trailer here in Florida.

 

[daves87rs]

First thought was a chevy astro...

 

[Barkleymut]

I would go with another Expedition, but this time go for a southern one. Also look for a 4.6L

 

[The_Jeff]

How about a 3/4 ton conversion van with the seats and carpeting removed? They depreciate like rocks.

Cargo vans, not so much, and they get beat on.

 

[95busa]

Ramcharger!

 

[supton]

I like the idea of the gutted conversion van, but am not sure about how many are 3/4 ton. But at 6 or 7k towing, I'm not sure I'd want a half ton either. Maybe short trips. I would not use an Astro at this level.

Otherwise maybe a Suburban, going by your desire for ground clearance and 4wd.

Actually, now that I think about it, if you had a huge van would you need the big trailer? Probably still want more than a half ton.

 

[bullwinkle]

Excursion or 3/4 ton Suburban-your need for 4X4 and towing 6K plus excludes anything smaller. I had an Astro for a while & towed some smaller stuff with it-don't go there, the rear suspension isn't strong enough to haul heavy loads around.

 

[hattaresguy]

At that price point you don't get the luxury of being picky. Just buy whatever SUV you can find that's in the best shape. Model, brand, and options don't matter.

 

[Fitz98]

What would be the advantage of the smaller engine in an Expedition? Would it affect towing heavy lods?...the 5.4 already seems like the least amount of power for when towing up north on some of the inclines.

 

[Fitz98]

I was considering adding a suburban to my list of options. Are they mecahnically dependable? Any specifics you would recommend? Motor Size, Transmission model?

Anyone had a suburban and an Expedition to compare?

Also, anyone ever compare a Tahoe to a Suburban? The length of a Tahoe may be more appropriate for me.

 

[threeputtpar]

I'd say an old enough Excursion with the diesel option to get into your price range.