New fj60 owner, any tips on the following...

[geoffk]

Hello all,

as of the previous Monday, I purchased by first cruiser ('85 fj60). I've been through this site most of last week, and found it to be a great resource. Anyway, I've dropped the vehicle off at a local mechanic for some new shocks and a once over. This brings me to my first question: I need a new alternator and will install it myself. I've found the following website
http://www.drivewire.com/toyotaparts/catalog/toyotalandcruiseralternator.html
Any opinions? The prices seem to cheap, unless I'm missing some fine print. Also, any opinions on the amps? How much should I get? Next question: I'll need a new carb found out a lot of people hear use JimC for a rebuild. If I go that route will it be jetted for my altitude from 6000-9000 average? Thanks in advance

 

[zcruiser]

I went through 2 rebuilt alts from Autozone then on the third one went back to OEM. Intalling it yourself saves money, but only if you do it once. The next two times are just a pain in the arse.

Amps - Are you driving anything besides the stock components? Or are you going to throw on lights and a whoop-ass stereo?

I've got the 3FE and try to avoid carbs whenever I can, so can't help you there...

 

[Mike S]

It is very hard to do better than Toyota OEM parts. The first alternator lasted, what, 150K miles? More expensive, but cheaper in the long run. Contact CruiserDan for best prices on OEM parts.

Jim C will make your carb right. Tell him you're in Colorado, and ask for appropraite jetting and correct Hign Altitude set up. He will make your carb better than new.

Suggest that you replace all fluids and filters, lube the truck, do new spark plugs (NGK), replace belts and hoses, and check that the smog gear is working correctly. Also check suspension and steering.

You should be good for a long time.

M

 

[cbmontgo]

Mike S is right. It costs a little more, but you will never regret using Toyota OEM parts. In the long run, you will be glad you did.

 

[geoffk]

Thanks guys, I've just sent a message to CruiserDan

 

[lovetoski]

I buy from Cdan whenever possible. But, sometimes things break and I need a part NOW. Napa is my choice in these cases. AAA discount of 15% is even better. I purchased some stuff from Shucks the first few months I owned my cruiser, but never again. A lifetime warrenty on an alt is worthless when you've replaced it three times...

 

[Heartworm]

Jim C. carbs

I have 2 vehicles with carbs that have been re-done by Jim for high altitude. Highly recommend it. Too bad your are in CO and cannot get away with a desmog.

 

[geoffk]

Desmog

Actually I have no emissions testing in my county...yet

 

[srplus]

count on as soon as you do the desmog the testing will immediately be required.