Many of us fix and repair these vehicles ourselves. It takes quite a bit of time to learn the techniques and apply them. In my own case, it took nearly five months to completely remove and overhaul the head on the SD. I did a bunch of other work during the process, neglected things such as water pump, belts, oil cooler lines, starter, downpipe, etc. Managed to spend nearly $2K on parts and the cylinder head overhaul.



It certainly makes no economic sense to spend this amount of money on a vehicle worth $4K. But, it runs with perfection and I get a smile on my face every time I drive it.


So, the decision is strictly personal. However, I would really urge you to reconsider keeping it because of the costs involved when you must pay others to work on it. It can quickly become economic suicide despite your best efforts. Many mechanics don't have the slightest clue on how to maintain a diesel and what to repair at a reasonable cost. The chances of you stumbling into one of them without realizing it are high. You've clearly stated that you have limited resources. An old M/B is, unfortunately, ill-suited for such a person.

There is a reason why folks lease a new vehicle with a warranty.