Tuesday, Jul 20, 2004 at 10:09
Hi Paul:
I have a 1991 80 Sries (GXL) standard diesel, and have had it for two years. I am completely happy with it, and it now has 250,000 on it. I bought it with 166,000kms.
Common faults - or "things you learn to live with". Standard headlights are pretty ordinary, but there are a range of fixes, covering new wiring looms and a variety of lights. I jsut fitted a pair of
driving lights and am happy with that.
Brakes are very "1990's" ... but I just leave extra distance. Again there are a number of fixes, depending on how deep your wallet is.
The engine is not too hard working, but the upside is that you should get the mileage out of it. Not overly expensvie to run, although I have
mine serviced every 5,000km. It does not blow any smoke etc etc ......
Gearbox is a bit "notchy", but I have no trouble changing gears now that I have gotten used to it.
Mine seems to have the standard
suspension on it, apart from some Firestone air bags in the rear springs (which I like for towing my trailer on trips), and has been able to deal with everything I have dished out to it, and I have not been kind.
Others will tell you of weaknesses in the diff, but I think these problems arise when one is doing serious
rock-hopping, and they seem to hold up
well on even extreme off-road touring.
The low range capabilites are terrific, esp when descending (or ascending) extremely steep inclines.
Interestingly, with all the windows closed, it still takes most people two (or more)attempts to shut the door due to the good door and window seals. I have done a few deep water crossing and have not any water in the cabin. I have fitted extended diff breathers.
I also like the avaiability of various "add-ons". I have scored things like steel bullbars, a swing away wheel carrier, overhead console, storage drawers etc at incredibly cheap prices from
places like eBay. There is no way I could afford to pay full retail for these items. So my beast is pretty
well "optioned up" at quite affordable prices.
I love
mine and have not even considered a replacement. The price seems good to me.
Mine cost a bit more than that 2 years ago, but it was a GXL with a few "bells and whistles". I guess the final decision is all yours.
Jack
AnswerID:
68591
Follow Up By: Member - DOZER- Wednesday, Jul 21, 2004 at 19:50
Wednesday, Jul 21, 2004 at 19:50
Hi jack
Im going to be cheaky here and say your motor has not enough power to blow a front diff...lol...thats good in a way.
Your model 80 is the best all rounder made, it sat higher std, and the gearing is excellent aswell as economy on trips
Andrew
94 fzj80 auto
FollowupID:
329357
Follow Up By: Member - Jack - Wednesday, Jul 21, 2004 at 20:11
Wednesday, Jul 21, 2004 at 20:11
:)
I think that is the secret, Dozer.
But you are correct in that it runs on almost nothing. On a recent trip when my friend's vehicles were paying $90 or more to fill up, my bill was generally around $60. Soon adds up. Love my Cruiser.
Jack
FollowupID:
329364