They didnt start making them in large quantities until 85 ,84 was only from november onwards I think.
I take it you will be doing a lot of sand driving and if the fuel is cheap the 3F works well in the sand. My old 3F could reach 80kph in very soft beach sand if I wanted.
I think parts for the 3F will be easier than any other landcruiser engine in your area.
The diesels in the 84-90 models will struggle and run hot in the soft sand.
My advice would be to get a 73 series which is about 10 inches longer than a 70 and has the FRP roof.
It drives smoother and the extra room allows you to fit a lot more gear in the back.
I think the FRP top is cooler in the hot sun also
The gearbox should change smoothly when warmed up although they are always a little heavy and rough on the change compared to cars.
I dont think rust is a big issue in Dubai but look around the wheel arches,windscreen and between the seam you can see when you open the doors.
Make sure it is unmodified with original manifolds,air filter and carby.
If the carb is dirty it maybe leaking or the engine maybe fuming. Fumes are returned to the engine via the air filter tube.It tends to leak through the carb seals to the outside.
They are tough vehicles,but heavy,and jumping them may crack suspension mountings so have a good look.
Look at the suspension shackles ,if they are near vertical the springs probably are not sagging.
If the shackles are nearer to 45 degrees then the springs are flattening out ,maybe from dune jumping
Oil leaks are common from the rear main seal and get worse over time.
The engine should start easy when cold with some choke and a small pump of the pedal.
Hot starts are best with the pedal flat to the floor.
Engines should run super smooth.If there is some clatter it may need a valve adjustment.
If there is oil seeping from the sideplates it may mean the crankcase has pressure from gas seeping past the piston rings.
The 3F is a big old fashioned engine based on a 50s chev design and doesnt like sustained driving over 3000 rpm.
Steering should be nice with no clunks or slop. One inch max play at the top of the steering wheel before it turns.
Give the front wheels a good shake from the top of tyre,there should be no movement.
Check behind the wheels ,the knuckles should be clean with no more than a greasy film.
Looks for signs the steering joints have been greased and that its not leaking out.
Check the steering box for leaks usually at the bottom.
Feel the output flange for up/down movement or oil leaks.
If possible remove the upper filler plug from the gearbox,if oil pours out its an indication of oil migration from t/case to gearbox even though its uphill
Check the drive shafts for regular greasing.
Brakes are never fantastic on this model but they should pull you up straight with no pedal drop.
My experience says that if the handbrake is good then the rear brakes are working and have some meat left on the shoes.
The coolant system should be clean with an overflow bottle attached. Look carefully underneath hoses where they join to metal parts. Any signs of leaks or corrosion means you can expect it to be worse inside.
Any signs of seepage around the water pump means new pump time.
Good luck with it and comE back and show us what you have bought. If poSsible get a 90 onwards model with the 1FZ FE
Please note the prices cannot compare to anything stateside, it depends on local market conditions.
. I thought OZ was the last country to have that engine combo.
