Best years for FJ40?

[johnny4ever]

Im sure opinions abound. Considering I am a Newbie on the prowl for stock FJ40, are there any particular years to avoid?

 

[desertdude]

This is such a great question that is has come up many times before. There are a couple very long threads on this topic. Search for -Best years for FJ40 and enjoy the reading


My vote is 1978

 

[Chef BoyarDEE]

supposedly it's the newer the better, but if you're building a trail rig then i've heard 1978 is the best year to start with.

 

[CruisinGA]

Serious trail rig, early 70's.

Unless it was in excelent shape, I would stay '71 plus.

 

[Romer]

76-78 seem to be the favs. Front disc brake, 4 speed, 2F.

 

[desertdude]

here is one of those threads https://forum.ih8mud.com/showthread.php?t=16760&highlight=year+fj40

 

[fj40_rico]

I wish I could inport a 2004 venezuelan one

- Rico.

 

[thorvald]

71's the best
drum brakes rock last year of three on the tree i believe? seriously though, earlier years tend to have less rust depending on where theyre located due to thicker sheet metal. depends what features you want. course most people just add them as they go along

 

[TJDIV]

****-ev-uh......................I'm gettin' a 2005 Rubicon.






































ok, maybe not.

 

[78 One owner]

1978! Birfs aren't supposed to be as good as newer FJ's, but I'm still using the originals. If you don't put a locker in the front or do rediculous stunts in it the originals could last forever. Most of the birfs in '78's break thru operator error.