What do you guys think? I am looking to trade my 07 FJC for a 01 UZJ100. I basically got rid of a FZJ-80 that I loved for the FJC and now want the space back. Not that worried about the ga$ stuff b/c the FJC is supposed to run high test for some odd reason. Give me feedback....
I did it. If I were you, I would go for the 2003 or newer 100 series however. I traded my FJC in for my 2004 UZJ100. Here's why -
The FJC has had so many rear ends blow up.
The FJC has had a problem with the main bearing in the 6 speed.
The FJC has had a problem with the transfer case sticking in 4-low range.
Two of the above problems have been accepted and covered 100% under warranty by Toyota. The exception has been the rear differential. The diff problem was only present in the very early, Pre-February 2007 models which were imported. My FJC was in that batch.
Now, before people start pointing fingers at the front diff in the 100 series, I can say that I have never heard of a 100 series front diff blowing after it has been fitted with the ARB air locker and solid pinion spacer mod. That was enough for me to consider going for the UZJ100.
The next thing that pursuaded me to go to the 100 was the interior space. I never seemed to have enough space in the FJC. Being a gear intensive individual, I love all the space I have.
Third, the 100 will just tow like nobodys business. Things I have towed with the 100 without any trouble at all would have left the FJ struggling simply because the 100 has the size and muscle to drag stuff behind it. I recently towed a large piece of tree with my 100 and it drove like it wasn't even back there.
I like the 100 over the FJC for all those reasons, and I like the newer 5 speed transmission (with tow package including trans cooler) and much more oppulent interior over the older versions of the 100. Others may disagree, but we all have our tastes.
Good luck, I hope that helped you.