'Just checking in, and extending a Hello to fellow forum members and enthusiasts.

I just purchased a 2008 H3. I am a refugee from a newer car with its unending software issues, and the threat of a 5 digit repair bill at any moment.

My basic requirements were:

• Inline engine -- simpler valve train, and few parts to fail.
• Full Frame -- I wasn't looking for a "Crossover" or Minivan.
• 4WD -- I want to tow a boat, and while I can be occasionally accused of showing off, I don't like to do it by smoking up the boat ramp with spinning wheels.
• Small -- I am limited on parking where I live, and I have several other vehicles, including a much larger truck. I wanted something short enough to maneuver the boat in a constrained parking area.
• Back up Camera -- To hook up to and maneuver the trailer. The H3 I purchased has a nicely installed Android head unit with camera.
• Reliable Air Conditioning -- The larger truck will tow the boat with no problem, but it does not have air conditioning. I also does not meet some of the other criteria here. While I did have an expensive AC repair on a Suburban one time, generally GM air conditioning systems have worked well.
• Cool Looking -- I don't think I need to elaborate on that in these forums.

While I will admit to fantasizing about buying a real HMMWV, and frequently checking GSA Auctions and Richie Bros., I never really considered an H2 or H3.
I'll admit that I didn't even know the H3 had the GM Vortec inline engines. When I found out that the H3 had the 3.7L inline 5, I knew what I wanted.

I had previous experience with a Vortec 4200 in my (now ex-) wife's Trailblazer. She towed a very large, very square horse trailer for may years with that truck, and while she did feed it water pumps and fan clutches when she towed, overall, the Trailblazer exceeded expectations. She sold it in good running condition, with working AC, over 200,000 miles, and well over a decade on it.

Literally a day or 2 after learning that the H3 had the 5 cylinder version of the same engine, I found a unique, nice looking and well equipped H3 nearby.

My 2008 H3 looks better, and is just as comfortable and enjoyable to drive as the expensive 2016 vehicle that I sold.

While the vehicle does have it's issues (search for my posts), I have already fixed some of them. I'll paste the full list of my issues (At least the H3's issues ) here or in the appropriate forum if there is interest.

 

Welcome and congrats on the new to you H3.

 

Welcome to HF.