Recently we loaded up our 1996 FZJ80 (7080lbs.) and headed out on a 4300-mile holiday to Glacier National Park. More than ½ of the miles were done on secondary highways and single lane roads. The Cruiser was able to maintain the speed limit under most condition with the help of my right foot and the Supercharger. I found that it performed the best with higher altitude and cold air a noticeable difference from the almost sea level and 100-degree plus temps that I live in. The best MPG was 15.3 and the worst 11.6 (normal MPG for around town) with an overall average of 13.5. Not the best MPG but we were very safe and comfortable – priceless. Water temp reached its peak (225 degrees) on a long uphill grade running a strong 75mph at midday in Utah. I frequently saw 210 degree on grades with normal running about 180-190. By the way with all the temperature fluctuation I experienced the factory gauge did little to no movement. Oil consumption (Mobile 1 0-40w) was zero with frequent highway RPM’s of 2800 plus. About 1200 miles into our trip I had a little issue with my starter (fawk in the middle of nowhere) but a call to IDAHODOUG from the Cruiser Assistance list provided me with the info I needed, made the necessary adjustment, and never look back. A big thanks to IDAHODOUG and sorry if I woke you. Other than that the Cruiser performed flawlessly as any proud Cruiser owner would expect.
As for Glacier – GO it is absolutely incredible you will not be disappointed. Make sure you see the Canadian side of the park it’s beautiful, less populated, trails are less traveled, and yes a lot more Bears. Canadian cost was about 30% less than the states except for Gas - $3.75/gal ouch! We arrived in Hungry Horse Montana on the 3rd of June a little to early and very cold for a flatlander – snow and rain with daytime temp in the 40-50 range. I would recommend June 15 as a start date before the crowds hit. Buy then end of June the people; traffic, and mosquitoes were really starting to show up- time to leave.
Phil
As for Glacier – GO it is absolutely incredible you will not be disappointed. Make sure you see the Canadian side of the park it’s beautiful, less populated, trails are less traveled, and yes a lot more Bears. Canadian cost was about 30% less than the states except for Gas - $3.75/gal ouch! We arrived in Hungry Horse Montana on the 3rd of June a little to early and very cold for a flatlander – snow and rain with daytime temp in the 40-50 range. I would recommend June 15 as a start date before the crowds hit. Buy then end of June the people; traffic, and mosquitoes were really starting to show up- time to leave.
Phil
