2000 Montero Oil Use Question

[grandpa]

I am looking to buy a 2000 Montero for the asking price of $1500 with 247k miles. The owner states: We spent well over $1000 last year getting all belts replaced, brake pads changed, tune up, etc. The one problem that is most notable, is that there is either an oil leak somewhere or it simply burns oil quickly. I have to add 2 qts of oil typically every three weeks to a month. If you know someone who works on cars, this probably wouldn't be a major repair. It occasionally smokes from the muffler, but only when you stop and then go again.

Does this sound like valve seals or something more like rings? I am trying to figure the cost of the repairs. I have a 2001 Montero and I'm ok with doing the work myself. I'd like to hear from others experiences.

Thanks.

[The Viper]

I am looking to buy a 2000 Montero for the asking price of $1500 with 247k miles. The owner states: We spent well over $1000 last year getting all belts replaced, brake pads changed, tune up, etc. The one problem that is most notable, is that there is either an oil leak somewhere or it simply burns oil quickly. I have to add 2 qts of oil typically every three weeks to a month. If you know someone who works on cars, this probably wouldn't be a major repair. It occasionally smokes from the muffler, but only when you stop and then go again.

Does this sound like valve seals or something more like rings? I am trying to figure the cost of the repairs. I have a 2001 Montero and I'm ok with doing the work myself. I'd like to hear from others experiences.

Thanks.

that sounds like the classic valve guide seal problem...im assuming (hoping) that when he did the belts, the timing belt and water pump were replaced as well, that seems like alot of oil burning, but it may be due to the area you drive...city driving with bad valve guide seals=much more oil burning.

[off-roader]

Rings are unlikely although a cylinder leak down test (not just a compression test) can confirm that.

Alternatively his front or rear seals may be shot. Check for oil on the block to confirm that. If no oil is leaking from the block, then yes, it's most likely the valve guide seals.

HTH.

[grandpa]

Thanks for the info but it turns out that it is a Montero-Sport and I don't want a Sport. I guess some sellers don't know there is a difference.