I see some people mention that these old trucks aren't very trustworthy and would be hesitant to take on a long trip. OK, I can see why they might say that but taking a step back and looking at the big picture, for the money, are they really not trustworthy compared to the alternative of buying a new equivalent 4WD for $70k? I have a BJ60 and it's so simple, can't one take the alternative argument that for much less money you can replace / rebuild everything that could fail since the vehicle is so simple? And then you get a simple vehicle with minimal electronics and other fancy nonsense to troubleshoot when it eventually fails. What would go on my BJ60?
- The 3B engine could fail but they typically go for the better part of a million km if well maintained and mine has just over 300k. I hear the precups can break and ruin the engine. I understand the gasoline engines in the US are more prone to failure with all the complicated electrical and vacuum systems but the 3B literally has zero electronics.
- Transmission. But just rebuild the H55F and you're good.
- Electronics -- what electronics? Any electronics I add would be separate to the workings of the vehicle.
- Heating / cooling system -- just replace and update.
- Various motors like wipers etc. Those should be easy to update and in the end aren't really critical anyways.
- Axles -- I intend to put on my to-be rebuilt 80 series axles with a Trail Tailor coil conversion up front and the OME leaf pack in the back. Rebuilt 80 series axles are pretty reliable aren't they?
- Drive shafts -- update the U joints.
- Chassis -- if the rust is good on the frame and body then there's no issue there.
- Steering -- update all the moving parts.