1991 Fj80?

[Elbert]

Couple of quetions for the 80 series folks.. I saw an add for a 91 FJ80 in my area.

(1) it has the center differential lock... does this function just as a lock to run 100% power to the front and rear axles? I assume no locker or posi type unit in the front and rear axle? ALso is this lock in the transfer case?

(2) Auto trans.... Are these the same auto trans that are about impossible to find someone to rebuild or work on?

I don't know much about the 80 series... I know a little about the 60 series..

Appreicate any comments and maybe stuff to look for in regard to issues with this model of vehicle.

Thanks, Elbert

[ThePookieBear]

Well, everyone will tell you to search, but in an extremely simplified explanation...

1-In regular 4H, you get most of the power to the driveshaft or axle with the least traction, then from there to the wheel with the least traction. Once you lock the center diff lock (which is in the t-case), it sends exactly fifty percent of the power to each driveshaft but from there it still goes to the wheel with the least traction. *******This may be corrected by a more knowledgeable poster, sorry for any inaccuracies.****

2- It has the A440 transmission, which is a good one. They last a long time, and if they do go bad, you can have it rebuilt locally (okay), or buy a decent used one (maybe better), or have it rebuilt really well by Rodney in Australia of Wholesale Automatics (best).

Only other thing to look into is that it has the 3FE, which I am biased to. I love it and it is a great engine that lasts forever. However, the 93-97 have the 1FZ-FE which is also a good engine. Some don't like the 3FE, others love it. Its a bit slower, but who cares, they aren't sports cars. Good l

[sseaman]

hit the FAQs

[Hilux]

this is how a Center Diff works (pay attention to 3:30)

YouTube - Four-Wheel Drive Episode-1 part1

**Windy, turn the volume down** YouTube - Difflock

and this is how selectable Diff locks work. (also a TRUE LOCKING diff, NOT a ltd slip, posi, or gov-lock)

YouTube - ARB Air Locker Video

YouTube - Mercedes G-Wagen 290GD Impressions

this is how Gov-locks or limited slip diffs work

YouTube - Eaton Locking Differential Demonstration


Keep in mind your Transfer case, or rather your Center diff. It has altogether different modes with the CDL Locked and UNlocked. Think of it as another standard open diff at the rear output of that tranny, only its shafts split the power to the two drive axles. The 93 (most, also the 1fz) and up had a sorta "limited slip" in the Center diff. This is know as the Viscous coupler(don't worry about having it, as a matter of opinion it's not all it's cracked up to be).

[Elbert]

thanks for the feedback.

[Elbert]

a couple more questions?

Is is common to have problems with the center differential lock, dash light does not work , is there an actuator issue... Is this a big $$$ question?

Are there any known sources for rebuilding the transmission, that are reasonable...

Can you remove the catalytic converter on these 91 models with out ECM or performace issues? (no need to tell me what the "rules" are).

Is the 3FE configuration just like or very similar to the 2F, except for fuel injection? I assume a number of parts interchange on these or they sure do look close.

I looked at the 91 LC today... CDL light would never come on, never felt like the lock was engaging on gravel lot, both in high or low range. Engine looked to be leaking oil in numerous places, p/s pump leaking, 212K miles, climbing steep hills at speed...trans would not ship down unless you dropped below 50, A/C seemed to work fair, paint on top surfaces is screwed, 3 seats ripped on the side (like common on drivers seat), windshield has a number of major impacts almos like a shotgun round. Did not see any major rust. I've seen a wide wargin on prices onlin in regard to bluebook etc... From around $3,800 all the way to $800 or so... Edmunds, Kellyblue book, NADA. Big hit on the miles, and in my mind big hit on the paint. If I get it, its going to have to be at a price really low, looks like the SUV market is tanking pretty bad. OF course I don't plan on driving this thing to work every day.

[Marco7]

Originally Posted by Elbert

a couple more questions?

Is is common to have problems with the center differential lock, dash light does not work , is there an actuator issue... Is this a big $$$ question?

Are there any known sources for rebuilding the transmission, that are reasonable...

Can you remove the catalytic converter on these 91 models with out ECM or performace issues? (no need to tell me what the "rules" are).

Is the 3FE configuration just like or very similar to the 2F, except for fuel injection? I assume a number of parts interchange on these or they sure do look close.

I looked at the 91 LC today... CDL light would never come on, never felt like the lock was engaging on gravel lot, both in high or low range. Engine looked to be leaking oil in numerous places, p/s pump leaking, 212K miles, climbing steep hills at speed...trans would not ship down unless you dropped below 50, A/C seemed to work fair, paint on top surfaces is screwed, 3 seats ripped on the side (like common on drivers seat), windshield has a number of major impacts almos like a shotgun round. Did not see any major rust. I've seen a wide wargin on prices onlin in regard to bluebook etc... From around $3,800 all the way to $800 or so... Edmunds, Kellyblue book, NADA. Big hit on the miles, and in my mind big hit on the paint. If I get it, its going to have to be at a price really low, looks like the SUV market is tanking pretty bad. OF course I don't plan on driving this thing to work every day.

Sheesh, you might be better off to keep looking, better specimens out there w/less miles & less work needed.
I may be selling mine later this summer, 141K white/gray leather.
Would like to get a FJ100 solely due to the ride comfort, especially rear seat(2nd row).
Mine looks just like a '97 model, seats, wood trim, grille, wheels, etc. Hope to get around $5k for it.

[samurhino]

I'll sell you mine

[Lka1988]

Originally Posted by Elbert

a couple more questions?

Is is common to have problems with the center differential lock, dash light does not work , is there an actuator issue... Is this a big $$$ question?

Are there any known sources for rebuilding the transmission, that are reasonable...

Can you remove the catalytic converter on these 91 models with out ECM or performace issues? (no need to tell me what the "rules" are).

Is the 3FE configuration just like or very similar to the 2F, except for fuel injection? I assume a number of parts interchange on these or they sure do look close.

I looked at the 91 LC today... CDL light would never come on, never felt like the lock was engaging on gravel lot, both in high or low range. Engine looked to be leaking oil in numerous places, p/s pump leaking, 212K miles, climbing steep hills at speed...trans would not ship down unless you dropped below 50, A/C seemed to work fair, paint on top surfaces is screwed, 3 seats ripped on the side (like common on drivers seat), windshield has a number of major impacts almos like a shotgun round. Did not see any major rust. I've seen a wide wargin on prices onlin in regard to bluebook etc... From around $3,800 all the way to $800 or so... Edmunds, Kellyblue book, NADA. Big hit on the miles, and in my mind big hit on the paint. If I get it, its going to have to be at a price really low, looks like the SUV market is tanking pretty bad. OF course I don't plan on driving this thing to work every day.

On the CDL- the actuator is more than likely sticky from never being used.

Cats- There are no O2 sensors after the cats, so you can remove them....legally questionable, but there are no performance issues AFAIK.

3F-E/2F- It's possible to put a 3F-E head on a 2F block. Creates a 2F-E. Very


Personally, I'd keep looking. There are MUCH better choices out there.