Need Advice on 1989 Land Cruiser

I always wanted to own a Land Cruiser. I found a seller in my neighborhood (rare vehicle in Manhattan) that has a 1989 Land Cruiser with 197,000 miles. I need some advice on what are the things I have to be aware of. I love the car, and I am sure I will be able to negotiate the price with my neighbor up to something I can afford, but on the other hand I don't want to get stucked in the city with a car that doesn't run.

Please tell me what the flaws of this model are so I can do a thorough check of the car. What should I look for?

Thank you guys!

Manhattanite!

Manhattanite,

A 1989 Land Cruiser would be a 60-Series so you should post your question in that section. I think the FJ62 was the only Land Cruiser available in 1989 for the US market.

The 80-Series (US versions) began in 1991 with the 91-92 FJ80's, to the 93-97 FZJ80's. Different engines differentiate between the FJ80 and the FZJ80.

-B-

I wouldnt be very concerned with the mileage if you are comfortable using a wrench but stay the hell away from rust. It is the most frustrating repair to deal with period. I will never buy another cruiser with surface rust thinking Ill repair it back to new. Complete waste of time unless you have a body guy that will do it right for free or cheap.

Beowulf said:

Manhattanite,

A 1989 Land Cruiser would be a 60-Series so you should post your question in that section. I think the FJ62 was the only Land Cruiser available in 1989 for the US market.

The 80-Series (US versions) began in 1991 with the 91-92 FJ80's, to the 93-97 FZJ80's. Different engines differentiate between the FJ80 and the FZJ80.

-B-

Click to expand...

?
Was this posted in the 80 section?



I agree with the rust, check the 4wd operation. Have it checked at a Toyota dealer. It is worth the fee. Wish I would have done so with mine, nothing major, but I would have known a bit more up front.

Just my opinion...

Keep in mind it is a 18 year old truck with a good amount of miles. While these trucks are known to be able to take a beating, don't be surprised with a fair number of repairables off the get-go. x2 on the delear check if you are unfamiliar with these vehicles. These trucks are heavy, and their brakes aren't the best (not the worst either) but I think they go through pads pretty quick. Especially if in city driving conditions....

If the front end (knuckles) haven't been rebuilt recently I would count on that - probably a $1300 job in Manhatten area - you can do it yourself for about $100-150 in parts - it just takes time, but something only to be done if you are comfortable in the garage....

The emissions systems on these 80's Toyotas are crazy - don't be surprised if some of the components don't work right.

Search the forum for FJ62 issues and get a feeler for what personalities these trucks have.

I don't mean to spray doom and gloom - I have an affection for these trucks too and was mentally ready to pay money and time for needed repairs. I think anything you buy that is that old and 200k miles will need some mending - but they are fantastic trucks when all fixed up and will take you many places...


If this is going to be your sole means of transportation then definitely get a good look over from the dealer to find out what you need to make it reliable - if it's not already there. Have them check the basics - starting/charging syste, cooling, 4WD, compression, etc. They know what to look for, but make sure they give you a good report. Good luck and if you buy it- enjoy it. They are fun.

Moody said:

?Was this posted in the 80 section?

Click to expand...

Yes.

-B-

manhattan

Hey-

I lived in the BX and Manhattan NYC for 29 years. Born and raised. Do you have a parking garage lined up? If not, then 1)I have a great and cheap one in the LES and/or 2)think about alternate side of the street parking and the size of the beloved FJ62. It is no mini and parking can be a biatch in the city. Since there is wonderful public transportation in NYC I would consider the more practical side of owning an unecessarily large and inefficient rig (for any city,) that gets poor to dismal MPGs and emits quite a bit of harmful exhaust gases before diving in. That being said, I owned my 62 in Manahttan for years and transported rescue dogs with it, dealt with parking and tickets and traffic and buying overpriced gas and never skipped a beat. Just want to share my experiences.

Also, Make sure the exhaust system (headers back) is functioning properly. If the truck has not been maintained well, the brakes are sure to need servicing as well. With the amount of salt they use on city streets, the truck is sure to have some rust. check the frame, wheel wells and all coolant and transmission lines and make an offer accordingly. Pull up the carpet and check for rust throughs. Rust is not the end of the world. Steel rusts and you are in the North East. It is unavoidable. You Southern and Western folks are just spoiled. Steel can be cut out and welded or just left to its own devices. Whatever. For the comparatively low price you are sure to pay for it, the Cruiser is still worth it. If it is in decent shape, it will last you for years to come.

Sorry to be a killjoy. JMHO.