Question for Lj78 Owners

[Gun Runner 5]

LJ78

While most drivers are distracted by such things as changing a radio station and talking on a cell phone, after several months of reading threads on the forum concerning the LJ78 I find myself most often distracted watching my water temp. gauge. Hopefully there will be a point in the future where I can look beyond the instrument cluster and enjoy the scenery. ......1978HJ45

 

[crushers]

the only time you need to be looking down is when climbing a hill or bucking a head wind or passing or towing a trailer or if you are running over sized tires or if it is hot outside or...

i guess you will be looking at the gauges more than the scenery...

all said in jest and good fun.

cheers

 

[Gun Runner 5]

LJ78

WOW..... I feel better now
.......Happy New Year............1978HJ45

 

[Gun Runner 5]

LJ78

Hi Crushers, Is there a particular thermostat ( opening temperature ) that I should consider to optimize the cooling efficiency of my engine. I am not sure what version is currently in the Cruiser. .........Thanks..........1978HJ45

 

[dberwin]

While most drivers are distracted by such things as changing a radio station and talking on a cell phone, after several months of reading threads on the forum concerning the LJ78 I find myself most often distracted watching my water temp. gauge. Hopefully there will be a point in the future where I can look beyond the instrument cluster and enjoy the scenery. ......1978HJ45

I guess you could do as I have done and get a few more guages to watch and thus broden you scan a bit.

 

[Gun Runner 5]

LJ78

I have added an aftermarket water temp. gauge ( 2-1/2") that is directly in my line of sight. That combined with the pyrometer and boost gauge gives the Cruiser the look of a home made space capsule. I am toying with the idea of installing a new 3"x3/4" core radiator on Monday. If it cracks a head after that than my "positve LJ78 experience" was just not meant to be.
Take care.............1978HJ45

 

[wobbly]

So hows it going?

I'm looking at most of the mods you have made (except 3L head) - what made the most impact?

Pete

 

[Gun Runner 5]

Not trying to give you a smart answer but I think the best modification to enhance the LJ78 ownership experience is modifying the way you drive. ( not you personally)
The LJ78 is a heavy vehicle and the 2L-TE is an underpowered powerplant. Trying to make up for this lack of power by staying in the turbo is a recipe for disaster. Don't push it and don't let it get hot.
The mechanical modification include: 3L head, recored radiator,
2-1/2" exhaust, Turbo boost increased without increasing fuel,
82 degree (C) t/stat, and Evans coolant in the radiator.
So far so good..............1978HJ45