advice on purchase

[growdon]

I have always been a Chevy guy. Had a 72 CST blazer that I spent lots of $ on. Now have two kids and had to sell it to get a more practical 4X4. After looking into lot's of different vehicles I have decided that the Land Cruiser is the best vehicle for hauling the family around, and still being able to get into some of my favorite fishing holes. I looked at a 1970 FJ55 for $1500 but it had lot's of rust and a poor V8 conversion. I think to be practical, but still reasonably priced I should look at the 80's or probably a 85-87 FJ60. I would appreciate any informatrion on which years to looks for and what equipment/ accessories to look for. Are some years full time 4x4, gas milage is a consideration, etc.

I know I am asking for basic information regarding these vehicles but like I said I'm new to these rigs.

Thank you
Dean Growdon, Northern CA

 

[Rogue]

Read this...

http://sleeoffroad.com/newbie/newbie100.htm

 

[Beowulf]

Dean,
In general, gas mileage on the 60's and 80's is going to suck. Figure 12 around town and 16 highway. Some people are doing better, some are doing worse. I don't think there is a big difference between the 2F in the FJ60 and the 1FZ-FE in the later 80's as far as fuel mileage goes.

There are a lot of FJ60's out there with Chevy V8 conversions. When done right, these VJ60's are awesome vehicles. There are very few 80's with V8 conversions. None of the 60 series were full-time 4WD. All of the US 80 series were full time 4WD and all were automatic.

The 80 series Land Cruisers (and the Lexus LX variants) make outstanding dual purpose vehicles; off-road and daily driver "for hauling the family around." Out of the box all 80s are very capable for reaching your favorite fishing holes and much more aggressive off-roading if you're interested in that. If your ideal fishing spot is waaaaay back in the mountains where you need locking diffs and a winch then you can look for a vehicle with the factory "diff-lock" option on the 93-97 FZJ80's and then mount a heavy duty winch in an aftermarket bumper.

Read the link Rogue posted and come back with more questions.

-B-

 

[growdon]

Thanks for the information guys. That is great link with lot's of good details. I will probably look for a 1994 with lockers. I am partial to the brass radiators, but would like the r-134 ac. I can't wait to find a rig and start spend all my wife's money (all our money is hers) to get it ready for the trails. I am planning on building custom front and rear bumpers, rock slides, a roof rack, etc. I'll stay in touch with the board and let you guys know as I progress.