Thinking of an "80", what should I look for?

[Tennesseestorm]

I did a search, but did not see one area in particular I was looking for, so I thought I would start a new thread. There are a couple of 91-92 LC's that I am thinking of looking at, but wondering what areas I should look at when inspecting? I know the basics - some higher mileage models have PS leaks, but I have heard of other things like stuff with the 4wd that needs to be checked, like joints, etc. One 1992 I was interested in has a power window issue, so I think that may turn into a headache. Fuse is good, but the windows do not work (I think she said one did), and do not even make a noise.

Any advice appreciated.

[ERG80]

The first thread in the 80's forum is called Thinking of Buying an 80? - Follow this link to helpful advice.
It will have different links that are very helpful. This is one of the best:

80 Series Land Cruiser <--Slee's guide

What part of TN are you in?

[jfz80]

Do some more reading thru the FAQ section of 80's tech. You should have uncovered a few more things than "joints" and PS leaks. There is a link also to Slee offroads newbie guide which does a great job of explaining the differences through the different model years. Happy hunting and be patient.

the window might just be a dirty contact in the switch. 10 min fix if it is.

Also what do you want it for? and what would be your initial budget and subsequent plans. This info might influence the recomendations you recieve here. IF it were me, id hold out for a 93-97, 95+ in particular, look for lockers if your planning to take it on more than forest service roads, a stack of reciepts, and have a trusted mechanic look it over. Read for the bubble test and be aware of the fact that there is a chance for a head gasket failure and use your knowledge to your advantage come bartering time.

[LUV24BY]

My recommendations as a 80 newbie that just got done shopping:

I suggest a 93+ LC. It has the 4.5l. 212 HP & 275 FT LBS of Torque. Don't go for the 4.0. Mine had a 4.5l w/ 147k on it.

I suggest taking it to a mechanic & tranny shop. Have it checked out.

I suggest getting a LC w/ the locking diffs (FR & RR), not just the center diff lock. If not within price range, then go for the one without em! (you can tell by the DS door jam, there's a 'K' code. You want the 'K294' code for the lockers.)

Prepare to get cash in hand to walk into the deal. I got a 93, Locked for $5k. They wanted $6500. I offered to take care of the little things it needed. But it was LOCKED!

Make sure to check the MOONROOF! This can be $$$ if it doesn't close all the way or seal right!

Decide if you want cloth or leather. 3rd row seat or not. That may help. Check eBay, craigslist.org, IH8MUD classifieds, yotatech.com, anything and everything. Oh, don't forget the Truck Traders!!!

Also, determine where your willingness to go to get your LC. Within the surrounding states? Within your own state? Out of state means harder to inspect, but deals to be had!

Lastly - here is one in your area. Check the little dealerships, not the corporation types. The mom & pop places, if have one, might deal more! Look eBay Motors: Toyota : Land Cruiser (item 250299458330 end time Oct-04-08 06:05:07 PDT)
at this one. Nice ride, clean, good price. In Nashville.....

Remember, don't look just in what your spending. If you got $5k, look @ $6-7k models and see if they will deal!

Mine was listed on Craigslist. The little dealer who had it, didn't realize the importance of the push knob left of the steering wheel. I bought ours 9/19, after test driving several and finding the one I liked best. Took the whole day having it inspected and running on the freeway. This is ours for reference, 1993 LC: http://www.cardomain.com/ride/3156686

Let me know if you need any other pointers!

John

[PScottBx]

Everything you need to know:

IH8MUD™ Forums - View Single Post - FAQ for 80/LX450 - July 24, 2008 - Added LSPV Modification

[Tennesseestorm]

Thanks for the replies/tips! Well I would be using it just for on-road use. I would probably rarely be off-road. I would like to stick with a 91-92, simply because they are likely cheaper in price, because I do not have a bundle to spend because this would be a second car and I would only be driving in like 2 days a week, on my days off. I really only want one because I have always liked the looks of these. I have been considering other vehicles as well, (mostly S-Class 80s Mercedes, which I am familiar with), but still leaning toward a LC. Yeah, I seen that one in Nashville.. nice, but too rich for me. lol.

One I have found is actually advertised on here if he still has it for around $2K. It looks good from what I can see in the photos and for $2K, you cannot expect a new vehicle huh? I guess whats stopping me the most is the poor MPG these things get, but since I will only be driving it occasionally, that should not be an issue. Also the fact I am not very familiar with their mechanicals. I have owned many Toyotas/Lexus and aware of most generations problems in general, but not the 4wd parts of the LC. I just did not want to get one and then have to pay $$$ shortly after to get something in the drivetrain fixed.

Well, thanks for the replies, maybe I will get up with this guy and check this out in the next few days if its not sold. I am also supposed to look at a Mercedes, and while I have owned many of these old big MBs, I still think I want to go with another Toyota for now.

Thanks again!

[MarcoPolo]

Just for the road...




"80"s

[mot]

Don't rule out the '93+ ones just because they're "newer" doesn't mean that they're gonna always cost more...

Good luck!

[landtank]

Originally Posted by Tennesseestorm

I would like to stick with a 91-92, simply because they are likely cheaper in price, because I do not have a bundle to spend because this would be a second car and I would only be driving in like 2 days a week, on my days off.

I just picked up a very nice specimen for my son out of York PA. Nothing wrong with them at all. I would expect to have to rebuild the front axle regardless of which model you buy. I got mine through ebay for 3200.00 but as I said it's a cream puff. There is one right now of that vintage in AL that looks real good also. I'm not recommending buying it but you should take a look at it.

I'm sure there are cheaper trucks out there but getting one that is straight and clean with minimal surface rust was the main focus of my search.

I focused on the shape of the drivers seat, how the aftermarket radio was installed and the look of the alloy rims. That might sound nuts but the rims show you the environment the trucks been in, the radio shows how well repairs have been done since this is a very common DIY job and the drivers seat indicates how well the interior has been maintained.

Not real scientific but I've bought two high mileage Toyotas on ebay and they have both been great vehicles.