Any tips for a first time buyer with zero clue on mechanics?

 

Test drive it and see how it run and drives. Check for leaks in the trany, engine, transfer case and differentials. Look at where the engine and trany meet up and check for oil as that could be a sign of a rear main issue. Check the valve cover for leaks as well as around the head. Check the antifreeze condition to see if there is oil. Check the oil as well and smell it to see if it smell burned and check the color of the oil, if it's overly black could be a sign of an owner that hasn't changed the oil in some time or other issues. Check for oil in the air filter. Could pull a plug and see what condition they are in.

Another option if if you find one that is clean, meets what you want, runs and dirve fine then take it to a trusted mechanic you know and have them do a thorough check of it. They scan for codes, look for leaks, check u-joints, brakes, fluids and so on for you and many times will do it for free or very cheap.

 

engage the four wheel drive and make sure the lights on the dash come on make sure it engages also

 

An old-fashioned way to check for blow-by is to remove oil- fill cap on valve cover while engine's idling. If there's smoke and pressure coming out, it's needing a rebuild.

 

check the bottom of the oil cap for milky looking substance... if so... needs head gasket and probly other things... if electric windows make sure they go up and down... and wouldnt hurt to make sure theres stuff to change a flat on the way home if you blow a tire... which reminds me make sure the tire tread is even across the tires and no bubbles on the sidewalls of the tires... if uneven wear then probly alignment... if bubbles in sidewall could be from cords snapping in the rubber of the tire... goodluck!!

 

You guys rock!
Some really great advice there. Thank you all so much.
I'll keep you updated on my progress but all going well, I should have my baby early in May..
Fingers crossed!!