Automatic transmission question

Good morning.

I'm posting from Hong Kong, where I've been looking for a decent 2nd hand Jimny - mostly for road driving, but also the odd sandy track near beaches. Prices even for 20-year old models are frighteningly high, and manual transmission vehicles (which I'd prefer) appear to be very much the minority.

Accordingly, I looked at an automatic example from 2000. It seemed pretty rust-free and the engine sounded okay.
However, it had been lifted 4-inches and had pronounced bump-steer, which I fear would be costly to correct. I also worried about the higher CG making it unstable on the road (particularly in corners).

Another worry was the transmission. 2WD worked. 4WD high worked. But, I couldn't make 2WD Low engage.
That, coupled with the harsh steering seems like a sign to look for something else, and perhaps closer to stock.

I'd like to canvas the opinion of the community about what usually causes problems with shifting into 2WD Low. I expect it is a transfer case-issue, not the autobox itself?
Also, more generally, what should I look out for when test driving an older autobox Jimny in 2WD and 4WD modes.

All feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers

Chances are it's got a body lift and the transfer case lever is hitting the bodyshell. Can be sorted 3 ways: Bend the lever, cut away the bodywork where it's hitting or remove the body lift.
The bad bumpsteer will be because of the suspension lift.

Much appreciated.
Do you have a view on the reliability/risk of manual vs auto transmissions? I mean older ones?
Cheers

The only thing with the automatic transmission is making sure it isn't getting too warm when running big oversized tyres. They do have an oil cooler integrated with the radiator but it is quite simple to add a further one in line if it is necessary. The thing is that so long as the transmission fluid is a nice cherry red and doesn't smell burnt it's a reasonable assumption that the rest of the box is ok.