80 Series Questions

[breadbox]

Hi, I am new to the board, I am in the market for a new vehicle, I have had a few jeeps and a Sammy, but now with 2 kids I need a little bit bigger vehicle. I have always like the late model Land Cruisers, and am wanting to find out what I sould look for when I go shopping.

I need it to have a tow package so I can tow my 53 M38A1 around to some shows. I would also like it to have the 3rd row of seats, and leather.

What if any problems do they have that I should look for, I saw something about an EGR upgrade? How do the trannys do for lasting a long time? What do they get for milage? Is their a year that is better than others, or is their one to stay away from?

All info is greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Chris

 

[reffug]

Check the FAQ also Sleeoffroad and pretty much all your questions will be answered........

Oh and

 

[Martin White]

There's a thread below that may be of interest to you concerning trailer towing. Not a cruiser's forte if the trailer is really heavy. For that, you are usually better off with a domestic diesel.

 

[firetruck41]

Trannys generally last forever, Head gaskets can sometimes need replacing, all 80 series are set up to tow (tranny cooler), though the receiver hitch was optional. Check the 80 series faq (a "sticky" thread at the top of the forum), and the newbie guide in the tech section at www.sleeoffroad.com .

 

[breadbox]

Thanks for the replys, I will check it out.

Ok, so lets say I find one here in Vancouver, WA, is there anyone local who specalizes in these rigs? Local shops to do an inspect that are recomened?

 

[firetruck41]

I have helped a fellow mudder from AZ get a LX450 here in the 'couv. Have you seen the white 96 on craigslist? No miles listed, but the price is good...

 

[breadbox]

I will check it out thanks.

 

[Beowulf]

Short answers.
Tow package: As was mentioned, all US spec 80's have a "tow package" which is basically just a tranny cooler. The Class-III platform was optional but easy to obtain from a list member or aftermarket as is the electronic black box to hook up the trailer lights.

Transmissions in all 91-97 Land Cruisers are tough. Very few problems and they are all up to towing.

EGR "upgrade" is a non-issue. Some think the $45 "blue top" EGR modulator solves P0401 problems. This is a misconception but seems to have a life of it's own. If your EGR modulator is working then leave it alone. If you have to replace it, the only one Mr-T sells is the blue top and it is replaced using no tools and 1/2 banana. BFD.

Most all 95-97's will have air bags for the family, 3rd row seats, leather, moonroof, and all the other luxury features found in top end vehicles of 10+ years ago. Let me know if you find one without the 3rd row seats 'cause I'll sell you mine for cheap.

Mileage: 12 city, 16 highway (completely stock). The more junk you do to it, the less MPG you will get. That's a promise.

The 91-92 80-Series were the first years and had the less powerful 3FE engine. Since you are planning to tow, you do not want one of these. Other than that, I would recommend buying the newest model that fits your budget and get the one in the best mechanical condition with the best maintenance records. Mileage is less important than prior maintenance.

The HG in the 1FZ-FE gets a lot of attention, and rightfully so. We have had a lot of these that have failed and there are dozens of posts speculating the why's, hows, and just about everything else you'd care to know about the HG. There is *no* pattern that we can identify and even single owner vehicles with outstanding maintenance are not immune. Basically, it comes down to luck as far as I can tell.

 

[breadbox]

So, I have a silly question, what is OBD II and is it better than some other OBD??? My family have always owned older cars so this is unknown territory for me. I saw that 96s have it and only some 95s.

Thanks

 

[firetruck41]

OBDII was required on all 96+ vehicles, I believe. It is basically a more sophisticted/complete emissions computer. It will give you more specific readings from the sensors and when your check engine light comes on it is more specific when you read the code. Also you can use a laptop and cable/program to get real time data on the engine.