Buying 80 Series 'Cruiser

I have a 1993 80 series petrol, but mine is auto. I get about 18-20L/100km out of it, so it is thirsty, but manual should be marginally better. As far as it goes, look for any undercarriage damage and check for servicing records. Mechanically I have had no major problems, but get it serviced fairly regularly. I hope this helps. Seeya, Roscoe.

Have a look at a GQ Patrol. Just as good, and possibly better in alot of ways than an 80 series, but for a lot less $$$. They are extremely robust vehicles, and are readilly available in lots of engine/transmission configurations. I have known alot of people getting big kays out of both petrols and diesels, and they have proven to be very reliable. Just look at what the competition guys are using these days.
Tristjo.

80 Series is a good choice but there's nothing wrong with a GQ Patrol either. Two peas in a pod really. Sounds like you're alreday a Toyota man so look for something low in Km's if chasing a petrol. The Anniversary model (97) has some great Petrol GXL's and there appears to be plenty of them around.
Australian 4WD Monthly did a good article on buying used 80 Series a little while back with great tips on what to look out for so try them for a back issue.
Others on this site will help you immensely also so stay tuned
Do or Do Not - there is no try !

Go with the 80 series , you wont regret it !
Best 4by ive owned so far.

Only advice if buying a petrol (i prefer diesel) make sure its the newer version as the early ones used a lot of fuel and had less performance, i think it is the 4.5L multi valve engine to go for over the 4.0L.

Dont think you can even give away the early 4.0L version these days !

Hi Kev,
Mine's petrol and sure, they're thirsty but after weighing up pros & cons I don't regret buying one. Tonka tough engine and have given it a fair bit.Mine's done 283,000k's and still purrs. (bought it at 170,000)
With the roofrack, racksack, pvc fishing rod holder I still make 20L/Km at 110 km/h but it suffers in headwinds. I don't knock diesels though but remember too, diesels are more expensive when it comes to replacing parts generally but are better range with fuel. I'd stick to manuals but not going to go on about it as it'll just open a can worms. If you buy one from a dealer make sure that; 3rd row seats are with it, dashmat, original mags, service book, floor mats - if I hadn't been observant I would have been sold the vehicle without any of these and the dealer played dumb when asked where they were. He had 'mistakenly' left them at the cleaning depot. Yeah, p*ss in my other pocket.
Good luck in your hunt.
RegardsLove the bush.

Chris

Hatcher.. reckon you dont get economy with the petrol versions...I have a 4.2 Diesel Standard Wagon and use it around Sydney and get around 1200 kms to a load ....( both tanks) in the bush I get better .. slower driving means using less fuel ... got it down to 9.8 litres per 100 kms ...... and i am not trying to get the best consumption figures. !! Your best bet is a diesel and few would argue... albeit the usual experts ..Mine has 200 kms on it and expect to do around 500 kms before I need to do any heavy overhaul/ replace engine !!

Hard to beat the best unit I have ever owned ! Can't be convinced on a 100 series ...

Hatcher,

I own a 1990 80 series and love it.

The Australian 4WD Monthly had an article on buying used Landcruiser 80 series in the April 2002 edition. I believe you should be able to obtain a copy from www.magshop.com.au.

The cons were:

Front Wheel Bearings - tend to last 100000kms
Five speed manual - problem with synchro on second gear. Worn 5 speeds like to jump out of gear
Check back for height of rear coils
Around 1992 Toyota recalled a whole bunch due to failed or potentially bad main bearings
Check for rust around rear window sills,doors and quarter panel corners
Check underneath for rock damage
Check inside engine mounts for sand

The pros are too numerous to mention. Just ensure you get a mechanic and RACV (or equivalent) to check out the vehicle.

Also check out www.redbook.com.au for vehicle pricing.

Good luck, don't rush it and you will find a great 80 series out there somewhere.
Just Do It!