My '96 FZJ80 Build Thread

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OK, as promised, here are some pics of my 96 FZJ80. It needs some work, but nothing I can't handle. There are fluid leaks everywhere, the front axle needs to be serviced, and it needs a bunch of interior cleaning.

I spent an hour or so with it this morning, and it doesn't look as bad as I had originally thought. I already fixed one of the problems: the PS seat was stuck forward. After pulling it out and installing a $5 plastic plug, it worked like new.

I plan to drop it off at SDTrux on Monday, to have some of the problems addressed. I also want to get a thorough underside / engine steam clean so I can identify the source of all the leaks. Supposedly there is a place on Miramar Road that can do this.

My goal is to maximize the reliability / robustness, and modify it for family camping trips and exploring more remote areas. So I will probably opt for a minimal lift, 33" tires, dual batteries, radios, extra fuel, sliders and undercarriage protection, etc.

I will update this thread as the build progresses. Stay tuned.
 
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BTW: If you have parts for sale, let me know. I need sliders, skid plate, shifter handle, steering wheel, both mirrors, and probable more as I get into it.
 
The fun of starting over :beer:

Is that the factory paint job? I two-toned my '94 green (darker grey to match the shortbus and DIY labs bumpers) but have'nt seen others like this one.
 
Just out of curiosity what is the appeal of the 96, since you just departed with your 94? :hhmm: I am having a bit of deja vu here. I don't doubt for a second that you have a good reason for doing this, just wonder what it is. And congrats on the new rig.:cheers:
 
Looks good. I like the colors.

The likely culprits of the leaks are the oil pump cover seal, crank case seal, valve cover seal, oil pan seal, a leaky power steering pump or rear main seal.

Not too hard. I've done the valve cover, crank case seal and oil pump cover seal & have the tools (1,000 ft lbs breaker bar/ 300 ft lbs torque wrench / huge socket for crank bolt)for it, if you need them.
 
Is that the factory paint job? I two-toned my '94 green (darker grey to match the shortbus and DIY labs bumpers) but have'nt seen others like this one.

Yes, factory colors. It called Dark Emerald / Moonglow and the code is 2AC. See here:

Toyota Reference: Paint Codes, Information and Specs for Toyota, Lexus and Scion


Just out of curiosity what is the appeal of the 96, since you just departed with your 94? :hhmm: I am having a bit of deja vu here. I don't doubt for a second that you have a good reason for doing this, just wonder what it is. And congrats on the new rig.:cheers:

I think the 95+ are a bit more refined, and the different air/fuel management seems to wake up the power a bit. Feels smoother. Plus I wanted the air bags

The likely culprits of the leaks are the oil pump cover seal, crank case seal, valve cover seal, oil pan seal, a leaky power steering pump or rear main seal.

Or all of the above
 
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Forgot to mention that it has always been a CA truck. No rust, all original body panels and I don't think it has ever been offroaded.

I hope to get it ready enough this week to do some gentle trails at the OAUSA BorregoFest. I do need to get some tires first though.. Leaning towards some BFG KM2 at this point, or possibly the duratracs. I will never buy another set of BFG ATs again.
 
Welcome back Eric. I've got a pair of j springs for the rear if you are interested
 
Well, I just spoke with SDTrux. It needs more than I had expected and can afford right now (money and time wise). I had expected to rebuild the front axle and replace a bunch of seals/gaskets, but it looks like it may need head gasket work in addition to the front axle service.
 
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Sorry to hear that Eric. :frown: Good luck with the sale. I have a friend that goes looking for cars like this one.. He is easily able to do these repairs and if you factor out his labor and some parts, it becomes a prety sweet deal for him financially. Like you said aside from the repairs its a decent cruiser. I will pass the word on to him, however I think according to his wife he has passed his car buying quota for the moment.
 
Why sell it? Just do the repairs yourself, they aren't that difficult and will save you a bunch of money!

Agreed. I just don't have the time right now with the family and work. Love to though if I did.
 
I got some time, a garage and tools. I could knock out most of those seals for alot cheaper than a shop. PM me if interested. That way you can keep it or sell it for more $

Can I be your friend too??? LOL

That's a mighty fine offer - I'd take him up on it and keep that '80 (you'll be glad you did).......

-JG-
 
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