Recommendation on 99 Burb Purchase

I came across a 1999 Chevy Suburban someone is selling. Here is a copy of the ad.

1999 Chevrolet Suburban K1500, 112K miles, 4X4, tow package, loaded, excellant condition, new tires, tinted windows, two tone paint champagne and pewter, $5000.

I went to look at the vehicle last weekend. He was asking $5,900 then. He told me how surprised he was that the they book for around $9500 but because of gas prices they are not getting any where near book price. The vehicle is extremely clean with no dents,fading of the paint, or any rust. He is the second owner. The vehicle has no leaks. I am unable to post a picture but can email one to anyone that would like to see a picture.

Now for the problems. He had the tranny rebuilt a couple of years ago. He let me take it out for a test ride and the tranny seemed to want to hunt for a gear around 30-35 mph. It seemed to go away after I drove it for a little bit. I only drove it around his rural neihborhood because I did not have much time. He said he was unaware of this problem in that it was his wifes truck and it had been sitting for about 4 months.

Also when I went to put the vehicle in 4WD, the light stayed on for 4 HI but when I switched to 4 LO, it started to flash. I am not sure if 4WD ever engaged. I read on here about the usual culprit is the actuator on the forward axle. The owner said they hardley ever used 4WD.

The only other thing I found wrong was a good size rock chip in the windshield. The front brakes need to be done but he has new GM rotors and pads which he has not put on yet.

I called him back last night and he left a message and said that he had dropped the price to $5000 and that he had taken the truck out and drove it and noticed what I was talking about right away. He said he was not sure what it was but he noticed it went away after driving it awhile.

First question, what do you think the tranny problem is? Minor or Major?

Second, do think the issue with the 4WD is minor?

Third, I don't think the windshield would be that much to replace.

Fourth, I could do the brakes.

Do you think I should buy this vehicle? I hate to ask this question because it is subjective. But I guess what I am asking is do these problems seem minimal compared to the price and overall condition of the vehicle?

Thanks
Jeff

transmissions are expensive... if you need a new one the best deal is to get one of the GM "target" transmissions... 3 year 100K warranty. Don't know on the flashing 4*4 indicator...that could be some $$ too.

I would make sure and drive the truck pretty aggresively to see what the trans does and to make sure its fully warmed up. Potential repairs could be in the $3500 range or maybe more if the transfer case or front transaxle is damaged.

I believe you have to be stopped and possibly in neutral to engage 4lo - check the manual.

If you have acess to a scan tool you could check the vehicle out on a test drive with the scan tool hooked up. This would tell you if it is merely a solenoid going out in the tranny or not. The right scan tool will check operation of the solenoids.The solenoids are not too expensive. Your description sounds like a solenoid problem.
4wd lo --must be stopped and in neutral to shift into.
In this area windshields are between 200 and 300 depending on the dealer.
Sounds like not too bad of a deal. Offer 4500 and see what happens.Good luck.

I have a 99 2500 I purchased with 73K for 9500. I agree 4500 is comfortable number, agree you have to be N at a full stop to get the baby to movefrom 4wd to etc...If you cut your deal get any paper work he might have ie maint. Have fun there a great ride. My has a 7.4 liter, 12K hitch and I pull my 8000lb boat. the burg does not know its there.