Troop Carrier US Buying Advice (1 Viewer)

[Slotosea]

New to the community here, but hoping to become a proud owner of a Land Cruiser soon.

I’m looking to buy a troopy in the next couple of years and wondering if someone who owns one in the US could talk me in or out of it.

I would use it on weekend trips for the first few months, and put as much of my time into fixing repairing it, maintaining it, and eventually building it out as an overland vehicle while working my full time job. I am honestly looking at the troopy because I love the look of them, they seem to last forever, and the Alucab or similar conversions seem like a game changer for extended trips, as eventually I’d like to drive the pan American highway split up over a couple trips, but that’d be after a few years of getting to know the vehicle.

Any current troopy owners have thoughts on parts availability in the US? Or want to talk me in or out of it after owning one themselves?

I am looking at troop carriers between 1995-2000 and between 100-200k miles on them, ideally LHD.

And if I find a good deal on it, any insight on if it will hold or appreciate in value? I am thinking in 10 years, maybe the 1996 may be too old since people will start importing 2000s to the US more, but I’m no expert.

 

[athensrep]

I have an HJ75 from ‘88. It’s old and slow like me, but the 5-speed makes it livable. Like any Japanese vehicle from this time, look out for rust. I bought an HZJ77 that looks like it was parked in the ocean but it’s just a play truck but I assume you’d want the best truck you can afford for your money. Do that and it will save you some headache. Also, you have to plan for hills if you get a NA diesel. Parts are not too bad but give yourself a few weeks to have anything shipped over. I’m not saying anything you haven’t heard; it’s mostly common sense with an imported vehicle. These trucks are reliable and robust, but you’re looking at a 25 year old vehicle at least so expect to work on it yourself or have deep pocket.

Good luck.

 

[Jonathan Hanson]

We have a '93 that we drove around Australia and Tasmania, across southern Africa, and then shipped here.

First, I wouldn't buy any such vehicle with the expectation that it will appreciate in value. Buy it because you want it, or don't.

Parts are surprisingly easy to come by, both from U.S. sources such as Cruiser Outfitters, and international sources such as Partsouq. In terms of driving in the U.S., if you're happy to drive 65mph on the freeway, which we are, then there's no real downside.

 

[JuanJ]

Hello,

Keep in mind that most LHD Troopies have lived hard lives. They are likely to have been repaired by creative mechanics. Finding one in good shape can be quite a challenge.

RHD Troopies live hard lives as well. However, you can find a one in good shape from places like Australia.







Juan