I'm new to off-roading, but I know what I would like to do. I am looking to build an expedition type vehicle with the capability to run trails like Rubicon and other legendary trails. Important factors to me are 1. the ability to comfortably seat my family of four. 2. Good aftermarket support. 3. Decent gas mileage. I have heard many good things about the Fzj80, but with a straight six gas mileage stinks. If there is a vehicle out there with all the positives of the 80, but with mileage in the low 20's that would be awesome.
Best Expedition platform
- Thread starter jmjnewbold
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HDJ81 or HJ61. milage in the 20's, turbo power and comfortable seating for the family. Who knows, maybe you can land a 1986 HJ61
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rolling over makes the expedition fun:
Off Duty
SILVER Star
That woudl be sweet, bit I think the "good aftermarket support" might rule this out
Ok, now where do the other 2 ride
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- #5
The ATC would be totally out of the question! I have googled the two vehicles mentioned above, and they just look like diesel versions of the fzj80 and the fj60, is this assumption correct? Also, would it even be possible to purchase them here in the US? IF not would importing one from Canada be possible? I like the looks of the HDJ81 the most. I think aftermarket support should be there as far as suspension, axles, bumpers, sliders, etc. etc. for the HDJ80, would parts that fit an Fzj80 fit an HDJ81?
I think there's a 25 year rule (maybe 20?) for importing non-US compliant vehicles to the US.
Do a search this has been done before.
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- #8
I does seem that importing a non U.S. L.C. has been done before. However, it seems to be expensive. Are there any other vehicles, even considering non toyotas, that would be a good platform for an expedition vehicle?
Buy an 80 that has a diesel (4bt) already swapped in it. They come up for sale every now and again on ebay and here.
Talk to Mark Whatley up there in alaska he can give you all kind of ideas.
I'd be willing to bet that when you get an HDJ81 fully loaded for an expedition, the mileage would be less than expected. Just get a US FZJ80 that's in good shape. Keep the stock size tires on it and you'll be surprized how well it does. That's what these rigs were made for. And when they're properly maintained, they last forever. Take care of it and it will take care of you and whatever you're hauling, be it family or equipment.
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- #11
Do you know how I could get ahold of Mark Whatley?
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- #12
I have looked all over for a better mileage alternative to the fzj80 and I think you are right. Plus, here in the US some out of the way gas stations may not carry diesel so that may not be a good alternative. I have seen quite a few with an LS swap and that seems like a good alternative in the long run. I think you are right!
sandcruiser
....back in the saddle again....
while an fzj80 is a great truck
if you set up an fzj 80 the same way that you set up an hd-t80 (toyota turbo diesel)
then add an intercooler (to both, if you want to waste money on the gasser)
You'll get at least 30% if not 50% better mileage out of the diesel.
My hd-t is out of tune and needs a valve job. No intercooler. 2.5" exhaust. I still get 18mpg on a bad day, with 33" mudders and a roof rack. No intercooler.
I've gotten more than 25mpg on a tank of fuel if I really pay attention and lose the roofrack.
I'm betting that an 80 with 255/85r16 AT tires with an intercooler and 3" exhaust on an hdt or hdft with manual gearbox and selectable hubs would fit your bill, just fine.
There isn't an honest person on this board who will claim over 20mpg on an fzj80... at least not on a repeatable basis.
Having said all of that.... an extra cab tacoma might also fit the bill. They get pretty good mileage and have a lot of aftermarket.
**NB: toyota diesels are expensive in the States.
if you set up an fzj 80 the same way that you set up an hd-t80 (toyota turbo diesel)
then add an intercooler (to both, if you want to waste money on the gasser)
You'll get at least 30% if not 50% better mileage out of the diesel.
My hd-t is out of tune and needs a valve job. No intercooler. 2.5" exhaust. I still get 18mpg on a bad day, with 33" mudders and a roof rack. No intercooler.
I've gotten more than 25mpg on a tank of fuel if I really pay attention and lose the roofrack.
I'm betting that an 80 with 255/85r16 AT tires with an intercooler and 3" exhaust on an hdt or hdft with manual gearbox and selectable hubs would fit your bill, just fine.
There isn't an honest person on this board who will claim over 20mpg on an fzj80... at least not on a repeatable basis.
Having said all of that.... an extra cab tacoma might also fit the bill. They get pretty good mileage and have a lot of aftermarket.
**NB: toyota diesels are expensive in the States.
No disrespect towards diesels intended, and all things being equal, I'd run an oil burner in an 80. I don't know the hoops you need to jump through to import one legally into the US, but I believe it's still extremely difficult. I'd rather run a 80 gasser than no 80 at all. While the mileage and other advantages of a diesel are attractive, right now for most people in this country, diesel 80s are out of reach. It's a shame! I remember when you could get a diesel in a Toyota pickup in the US. Long time ago, late 70s, I think.
up to 85 actually
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Given the perimeters of what you expect out of your rig you may have set the bar a little high. As you gain knowledge and experience you'll come to realize (like many here) that you'll need to make some compromises for a rig that is capable of doing challenging off-road trails (Rubicon) with a family of four, with camping gear and also as a reliable DD with on-road comfort and good MPG.
For example, my 1987 FJ60, Orig/maintained 2F/snorkeled, rebuilt carb w/smog gear, H55F, rebuilt frt/rr axles w/4.56's and ARB lockers, 33's, rebuilt T-case, re-done interior, heavy bumpers front/rear, sliders and stocked with RTT, off-roading gear and camping gear for a week will only get 10-12 mpg and tops out at about 70 mph. It's old school technology, not as comfy as an 80, but that's what I like and therefore I compromise accordingly to enjoy the my rig and trips. Even though it's a 6cyl gasser, I wouldn't hesitate driving anywhere in North America and it's very capable within what I designed it for. The 60 also has great after market support and parts availability. Mine wasn't built to run a trial like the Rubicon, but it has run a number of challenging Moab/Colorado trails without any problems and is very comfortable and reliable as a DD.
Good luck and enjoy the process of learning what will work for your type of wheeling!
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- #18
I don't intend it to be a daily driver, just a vehicle to use on long trips. Although I currently live in AK, I am hoping to get stationed in CA next year. So trips to Vegas, Grand canyon, Yosemite, Johnson Valley, Gorman, Frazier park, etc. will be taken. I still think the diesel is out of my price range. I know that as far as size the 80 and an XJ cherokee don't match up, but does anyone know how they match up capability wise?
X2 & excellent advice! Your 60 looks and sounds like a capable rig. IMHO, a SUV is useful because it is a well rounded rig. The 60 & 80 series Landcruisers are the most complete and capable in that respect. When they got away from the solid front axle, they sacrificed ruggedness for comfort and on road handling. Yeah, IFS can work on a SUV, but on someone else's rig, please!
crushers
post ho
this one:
https://forum.ih8mud.com/70-series-tech/436341-troopie-build.html
if you have huge money to invest ...
that is expedition, i am thinking you are after more of a weekend warrior platform.
https://forum.ih8mud.com/70-series-tech/436341-troopie-build.html
if you have huge money to invest ...
that is expedition, i am thinking you are after more of a weekend warrior platform.
