Be completely at ease with your purchase. You had it checked out and the mechanic thought it was just fine. In your case, with $3500 out of pocket, the "salvage" title is an interesting side note. It is a lesson without pain. Having looked at a 2000 XC for $17,000 that's a different story. The "salvage" title can come into play if you want to sell it or finance it. By the time you want to sell it there will be so many miles on it that it won't matter. It sounds like you have a great vehicle. You're now on a forum that is excellent for it's information and assistance. Enjoy the ownership of a unique and exciting vehicle and welcome to the brickboard.