FJ60 buying questions

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Mar 23, 2004
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I'm sure ya'll get a bunch of these but...
I currently own a 92 4Runner which I just had to replace the head gasket on, so I've kind of been looking at other vehicles while it's been 'under the knife.' I found an FJ 60 for $4500 that seems to be in $4500 shape. It runs well and the body is in good shape although the paint is faded. I didn't get to look at it yet in good daylight so I couldnt' tell if it leaked oil, or even see the oil for that matter. The guy that owned it put a Weber carb on it with an auto choke, and I think that may be sticking. When my dad and I drove it, it ran fine (although he thought it was a little gutless compared to the 62 he used to own) until it got good and warmed up. It started bogging down and smelled 'gassy' which we both determined would be taken care of by a good tune up. I've been eyeing land cruisers for a long time (my dad had a 40 and then a 62) and am finally in a position to buy one. I'd have to sell my 4Runner, and the 60 would be a daily driver. I don't drive a lot when I'm at home, but I frequently go out of town on the weekends to go kayaking which is anywhere from and hour to 4 hours on the highway. Would it be ridiculous to buy a 60 and spend that much time on the highway? I know I wouldn't be going anywhere fast (hence the name of this website). I'm only 19, so perhaps it's a little impractical. What do yall think. My dad is telling me I'm crazy, but I've been wanting one for so long. Moral dilemas...
Confused in Kentucky,
will
 
Buy one! Don't expect the fuel mileage of the 4runner but the space is nice for all your extra gear. Look for a later '86 or '87 with "low" mileage and its a plus if you like working on your own rigs. These older trucks need a little more TLC from time to time. Oh, and there's always room for a diesel and H55F five-speed of mileage does become an issue.... :D
 
A tough question. I bought an FJ40 new in 1972. I drove it for 150,000+ miles, and sold it in 1983. Since then I have been wanting another Cruiser, but didn't buy one - an FJ60 - until last year. I have spent as much on the truck with mods and improvements, as I paid for it originally. I can afford this toy, and it does not have to serve as my daily driver.

I think that you, like me, will not be happy until you have a 60. However, you should NEVER be blinded by your desire when buying. If you are on a tight budget, BUY THE BEST CRUISER YOU CAN. It always costs less if the PO did the work of repair and maintenance.

Enlist your dad in helping you to find, and evaluate (and finance?) a later model FJ60, and remain cool and patient. Do not buy without a professional meachanic's inspection and stay away from any vehicle with body rust.

There are lots of these trucks for sale out there, and some are in really good shape.

Mike S
 
Thanks yall, that's what I need to hear :). The truck is an 87 and only has 91,000 miles on it and little/no rust. The paint is faded and there's some cosmetic issues but it seems strong. I talked to the guy today and he's going to take it in for a tune up. Apparently it's been going to the same mechanic most of it's life. I also know the previous owner, maybe the owner before that. Thanks again,
will
 
91,000 miles is barely broken in. No rust is a make or break deal, so be cautious on that one. Have it checked by a good mech to assure there's no hidden problem that is keeping the price down. If it checks out clean, buy it. It's worth the price (more probably). Mine has way more miles, and I've had to fix things of course, but long drives to camp/hike/ski/etc are common, and we've always arrived home safely. We've had one or two adventures, but mostly due to wear/high milage. Worn parts, once fixed, don't break again for a long time.
 
If it's the silver/grey 60 in Lexington, it's been for sale for awhile. Low ball him an offer, he may just be ready to get rid of it.
 
Will, I am in Lexington. The vehicle looks nice in the pic. Are you here?
 

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