Turbo Diesel replied:

It is necessary, however in saying that is the motor diesel or petrol? I serviced my 80 series (Diesel) every 5,000kms did the timing belts at 100,000km's, basically you want a comprehensive check over at 200,000kms, rear engine seals one to look for, wear in the rear diff and uv joints, (constant 4wd). In our 80 ser i still had the original clutch and engine seals at 250,000kms, I looked after it well and it lasted. Don't be afraid to spend some money on the old girl as you can't buy what an 80 series offers any more from Toyota. Look after the car and it will look after you.

Howard T replied:

Thanks for you advice Turbo diesel
My old girl is a diesel, serviced every 5000 and belts have been replaced. Have just put a new clutch in her.
I agree it has been a pretty good vehicle and not caused too many problems. I will take your advice.

Howard T

Drew - Karratha replied:

G'day Howard
My 96 80 Series has now done 315000km. As far as servicing goes it is only the regular oil changes and filter changes that get done. Lately I have been spending a fair bit on it - swivel hubs, wheel bearings, brake calipers etc, but these things get done when they are needed, not because it says so in a service manual. Every car is driven differently in different conditions so by the time a car has 200k on it, the problems from car to car would be vastly different... (well, that is what I think)
Drew

120scruiser replied:

What town are you from Howard T?
Ask the mechanic to break down the $700.00 for you. He should be able to do that quite easily.
$700.00 does seem a bit excessive but quite easily achievable.
The timing belt is 1.1 hours and he has probably quoted for a new tensioner, as I would at the 200 000 km service. There is about $260.00 before you start. Then there is the rest of the service which needs all oils and filters to be changed.
Bear in mind the genuine air filters are washable so if you have one it may not need replacing and only need a clean.
I am happy to quote you if you would like to get in contact with me. I am in Sydney.
Just reply with an email address and I can put a quote together for you.
Regards
120scruiser

Howard T replied:

Thanks 120s cruiser for your offer however I am situated in Gladstone Qld.
Had a look at the manual and Phil was, pretty right except for wheel bearings.
Timing belt and valve clearances were there plus a lot of checking eg vehicles nuts and bolts, hoses,fuel lines, draining of brake fluid etc..
Have been thinking of getting some of it done and I will do the rest. I have already done the timing belt.
Many thanks for your replies.

Howard T