FJ40 newbie question

[BigSur]

I am looking at a couple of fj40's and wanted to know the difference in the two. One is a 69' and the other is a 73'. As far as info all i have is that the 69' is rust free and $3000 OBO and the 73' is $2500 OBO. I am going to call to get more info like mileage and if they are all original but knowing more before i call would be helpful.

Thanks guys.

Jason

 

[GreenFJ40]

Yes, the biggest question will be are the both original or have they been modified. One thing I have learned over the years is that a lot of people say "rust free" but the odds are there is rust. Here is a valuable resource I used when I found mine (Rob Mullen's FAQ):
http://www.off-road.com/tlc/faq/index.html
This will tell you what the major differences between a '69 and '73 IF they're stock. The biggest things you'll see is if they're stock:
The '69 will be 3 on the tree, they changed to 3 on the floor in '72
Added Dual MC's for the brakes in '70
Power brakes in '71
Depending on what you're going to do with it, you'll probably want to upgrade some things. I personally prefer disc brakes in the front and I like the 4sp (syncro gears) even though the 3sp xfer has a lower low gear.
HTH

 

[Vitesse_6]

I think the 69 could have the brittle T-case, I seem to remember the older ones did, The 73 should have a better(softer)case if you could imagine.
I dont remebmer if the 69's had the corse slpine axels or not.
Do look for upgraded brakes and any other running gear.
Good luck

 

[peesalot]

where are they ? cause I would be interested in what you don't want .

 

[IDave]

I agree with the above points. Differences would be: dual master cylinder, boosted brakes, bucket seats, and a slightly better transfer case housing in the 73. I also believe (based on Mullen's FAQ and my own observations) that the quality of the steel used in the body parts fell fairly steadily from the mid 60s through the 80s, so rust may be more of an issue in a newer than an older truck. However, variances allowed for individual situations (locale, garaging, etc).

 

[Poser]

Added Dual MC's for the brakes in '70 Power brakes in '71

This change was implemented together in 07/70.


Good luck!


-Steve