What should I look out for when buying a used 80 series LC?

Mate,

Snaffle it up at that price with the fruit...If unsure take to a good diesel mech for a check over...It is worth the outlay believe you me - I had that done and managed to avoid what appeared a great vehicle but was a heapa...

Ended up getting one with a crook gearbox and T/f case but got a discount and repaired at my own cost (by a mechanic) including a new clutch etc - (Saved a $1000 odd from asking price and that was from a wholesaler) which I put into other minor repairs....

There are many on this site who will advise so take your time, read the posts and then make a decision.

Some will say too dear others will say something else - just remember that YOU are the one buying and at the end of the day what we say is irrelevent. Use experts to advise is my final comment...


Grrr!!!

Factory TD or aftermarket? If factory this would be pretty good deal, depending on the condition of the rig.

If aftermarket turbo on 1HZ GXL it would be an ok price but the engine may be getting a little tired from having the extra stresses from the turbo.

If a Standard 80 series then the price may be a little high but if in good nick and exactly what you are after and you know its history then it wouldnt be too bad with all the gear on it.

They are 4.2 litres.

Things to look out for may include;
*rust, not overly common on the 80 but still around. Beach work = no go.
*Cracks in pillar just behind rear passenger doors - very common and an indication of the work its done. Some crack around upper tailgate area.
*Service history - oil and filter changes especially.
*Notchy gearbox if manual - common for this age and if hard to change down from 3rd to second is indication of oncoming overhaul.

Why is he selling now?

Has he started going to Phuket for holidays rather than the bush, or is he buying something else.

Maybe he has a sniff that something is about to need an expensive repair?

Try and get a good feeling about why 12 years old is making him want to part with it.

And get it thoroughly checked out by an independant service.

Louie,

We've got a 97 model, and it's still good with almost 300K on it.

Go right over it, but with all that fruit, BUY IT!!!!!!!!!!

Check driveshafts for wear, and make note of any oil leaks.

Hooroo,
Bob.

a 100...LOL

check the fruit its the most likely stuff to be rotten

Thanks all for the info.