Opinions on FJ40 looking to purchase

[jtms]

What do all of you think about this one? I think I can get it for $12k plus whatever it costs to ship it down to SC(prob $1k). Looks really nice to me, everything original except for wheels. He has original wheels also. No rust anywhere. Sight unseen purchase, which is not my preference, but I will get it checked out.

Thanks as always for your opinions.....
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/e...RK:MEWA:IT&viewitem=&item=190041999844&rd=1,1

 

[Colorado Boy-74-FJ40]

One thing I would be concerned about is the rust. If they had to cut out rust and weld in panels after only 12 years in Maine. Well It's been about that long since the repairs were done and the vehicle is still in maine. My guess is that it is a cleverly disguised rust bucket. For that kind of money, you should get rust free.

 

[Trollhole]

looks nice but I would definetly want compression #'s and as well pictures of whats under the floor mats front and rear. That rear sill looks kind of bad. It's going to be hard to find a cruiser up north that doesn't have some sort of rust.

Where is the skid plate.

Rear main oil seal is not the worst thing to replace but if you don't do it yourself your looking at least 1 to 2k including the clutch.

Brake are another 300 to 500.

Not original paint. And that job doesn't look to good. Overspray in the engine compartment.

But it is stock in apperance. for 13 or 14k I'd think you could find something better.

Personally I'd pass. There is sure to be something around here that will pop up.

 

[Capt. Jim]

Also ask yourself if you want to wheel this truck, and if so, how hard. It may not look so good after a day or two on the trail, and that will be a lot of $$ spent that you don't need to.

Nothing against clean non-wheeled cruisers. I once owned one. Wish it was still in that showroom condition, too.

I agree with what the guys said above, be wary of rust. Buying sight unseen, especially at these prices, is a leap of faith.

Good luck.

 

[jtms]

thanks for the tips. you guys are extremely helpful. decided against this one with all of your advice pluse the price once you figured in the shipping charges. I will prob sit tight until one comes available that i can take a look at. Looked at one today that they were asking a lot for and it was nice, but not nearly as nice as the seller thought it was. thanks again for the tips...