1985 Toyota Landcruiser FJ40, do they really exist?

[Dmac3317]

Hi, new to the FJ world, looking at buying and an Fj40 and have been scouring the net for them, sadly many are either in bad shape, have been overly modified, way out of my price range (around $20k) or seem to be a scam. I found a 1985 LC FJ40 that looks to be in decent shape and mostly original. My question is that everything I've read shows the FJ being replaced in 1985. I've seen other 1985 FJ's but what's the story with them? Is there something unique about this model year that makes it difficult to find information on them good or bad, are they any different that the 1984 models? Appreciate any insights.

Thanks,
Dave

 

[cruiserboy14]

to my knowledge, 1983-4 was the last years. if it is 1984-2001 it is from south America (as they still produced them during that point for in country use only). the only problem is that it was not produced up to us spec.

 

[1969FJ]

Probably none came to USA. But, some places got the 1985 FJ40.

1985 FJ40 – PUEBLO BROWN – House Of Cruisers

houseofcruisers.com

 

[Dmac3317]

Thanks, I was thinking it might be something lit that effect. I’ve read a number of articles about the import of FJ from other countries like Costa Rica, Australia... any suggestions on things I should consider or be aware of?

 

[Dmac3317]

Any way to identify them, I've heard that they don't have the dash bumper??

 

[1969FJ]

Thanks, I was thinking it might be something lit that effect. I’ve read a number of articles about the import of FJ from other countries like Costa Rica, Australia... any suggestions on things I should consider or be aware of?

There are some threads on here about what to look for before importing. Like any purchase, go over the vehicle and condition is everything.

 

[1969FJ]

Any way to identify them, I've heard that they don't have the dash bumper??

If you look at the images I linked you will see the 1985 for sale has the dash pad and it is definitely from another country because of the rubber stops on the bumperettes.

 

[Living in the Past]

The FJ was imported into 1992 in the US. That was a FJ80. Reason why the term FJ doesn't really just refer to the FJ40. I know some 4X series were made in to 1986 but never a FJ40. I would be really surprised if the production date would be any newer than 10/84.

 

[Dmac3317]

The one I'm looking at is a 1985 FJ40, so it must be an import, if it appears in good shape and good mechanicals, drives well, any other red flags I should consider. Also does the fact it's an import make it less valuable or more importantly less enjoyable to drive (LOL).

 

[AutaviaFJ40]

The one I'm looking at is a 1985 FJ40, so it must be an import, if it appears in good shape and good mechanicals, drives well, any other red flags I should consider. Also does the fact it's an import make it less valuable or more importantly less enjoyable to drive (LOL).

Last US FJ40 is 83/84, and very few imported as sales were declining.
If its an 85, its defiantly not USA spec...and yes, it is worth less. US models and originality command a premium.

Less enjoyable to drive? that's relative (what makes it enjoyable to you?)...but the short answer is yes and no... since it probably doesn't have all the updates that made the 81-83 US models so desirable and expensive some would say less enjoyable and not as loud...others could care less...but the long answer depends on exactly what you are looking at, and unless you post detailed images of the entire truck and engine...its almost impossible to answer. Bottom line is I wouldn't pay a premium for an imported FJ40 regardless of year. The insane sales prices are generally US models that are 100% OEM. All that being said, nothing wrong with an import...it will never sell for as much as an all original US model, but if you are looking for a truck to take in the mud, who cares?

 

[Dmac3317]

It has an 2F engine, The car has a clear US title here are few pics. Thoughts, opinions...

 

[-MaTTi-]

Drum handbrake...?

 

[FJBen]

South American Land Cruisers in general have a MUCH MUCH higher possibility of shenanigans and terrible mechanic/body/electrical work done. Definitely do your homework on anything from SA.

Have a look at this thread, on the surface it looked pretty decent. The poor guy that bought it thought it looked cool on ebay, but had no idea what he was in for. Heck even @2fpower who is quite handy and a great mechanic is finding all sorts of extra fun in this one.
75 Series Truck - VZ shade tree special

 

[Dmac3317]

Drum handbrake...?

what do you mean?

 

[Splangy]

Definitely not US spec but we knew that already because 1983 was the last year Toyota brought them here. As LITP said, the 40 series continues to be sold until at least -985 in a few select markets. These are markets that I would be very cautious about buying a vehicle from because of concerns mentioned above. It has a US title but that doesn’t mean it was originally sold here but Toyota.

 

[-MaTTi-]

what do you mean?

I have understood it’s at rear axle from 8/80.

 

[pjohnson]

The pics provided don't really help in determining if it's being accurately represented.

 

[Geezer Cruzzer]

SA import doesn't have a heater; however, one can be added.

 

[2fpower]

My bet is Venezuela birthplace.

 

[JackA]

That rear axle does not look like a Toyota unit and the rear springs aren't oem either.