Toyota Land Cruiser

joeeblow1

80 series list:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/80scool

Your stock 80 pressure gauge is not an accurate way of determining if the oil pressure is good in your motor. If you're worried, consider buying an aftermarket gauge. The pressure will drop a little with synthetic oil, but it will go up a little if you use the newer, smaller filter.

nrossi

Is it possible to replace the IFS in a 98 TLC with an active axle? If so, how much would it cost?

joeeblow1

Anything's possible, but keep in mind that there are no UZJ100's in the world with a live axle that came from the factory. Rumor has it that the V8 and live axle would occupy the same space, but I don't know if that's true.

The 105 series has a live front end (same as 80), but it does not have the 4.7l V8. It would take major effort, and IMO not worth the expense, but it's your money. Search for websites covering SAS (solid axle swap) on '86 and later toyota minitrucks as the principle is the same. There are many converted trucks out there.

I think the basic steps would be torching off IFS components, sourcing an 80 series front end, fabbing brackets on the frame to handle the coil springs, panhard rod, trailing arms (axle locating arms), and anti-sway bar. The last chore would be the steering box. I think the UZJ100 is rack and pinion? You would probably go with an 80 series steering box.

IMO you would be better off buying an 80 series and keeping the 100 as your street toy.

bobbo27

I was wondering if anyone has experience with sheepskin covers for a late model (1999) Land Cruiser... I'd like to install a front seat pair for the winter season. Ideally (logically), the headrests should be separate from the body... but nonetheless I would like the option to put some type of head rest 'covers' on so as to avoid attention to the LCD monitors for our DVD system.

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated!

nrossi

Don't they make a 100 series in Austrailia with a live front end?

hicaira

Yes, but not with the V8. The solid axle in Aus. is avail only with 6cyl diesel engine. Jeeblow1 is right: cannot fit without major work. Probably cheaper to buy a well maintained Fj40 for fun. Not only that, but all that retro fit work cost would be washed down the drain if ever you try to resell.

HiC

joeeblow1

Yes, the 105. You can get it with the turbo diesel, etc. Go to www.toyota.com.au and look around.

http://www.toyota.com.au/index_showroom.asp?forcenav=showroom

nrossi

Well, I started looking at fj40's for fun. I really don't wnat to spend alot of money, concidering I will have to bounce this off the spouse - what fun.

What model years are best if any? I found a few that were very reasonable - they need work. I really don't need to have a beautiful LC being that I want it for off road fun.

There are 2 I was looking at. A 72 with a chevy 350 and much bondo. And a 78 with stock engine that needs to have body and engine work.

Any opinions?

hicaira

The 78. Should be a fun project. I never cared for the 350 conversions. Just not needed for 4wheeling.

HiC

joeeblow1

If you're looking for a stock rig and plan to keep it stock, '78 is the best year IMO. If you don't mind some modifications, and perhaps you have smog [non-permissible content removed] getting you down, early years are fine, too. Disc brakes did not appear until '76; 2F motor in '74; 4 speed tranny in '74; power steering option in '79 (rare though).

The later model stuff can be swapped over pretty easily, so I would look for a rig with a good body and frame.

http://www.off-road.com/tlc/faq

raybear

Yan, use Edmunds TMV as a guide. You can always go to one of the internet services to locate a car.

phil_satx

Have a '00 LC, want to charge phone overnight. The cig lighter & power point go dead when key is off. Any hints how to make it hot continously?

richarrl

Ladies & Gents,
I need your help. Looking to buy a used SUV. Found a 96 LC with 78k for $19k. In great shape. My first choice would be a Suburban because of the room, ride, tow capacity, and can get a 99 4X4 with 30k miles for about the same price. I currently have a Tahoe and love it. The LC would be for my bride, to carpool, also to take on trips. What is the relability?, mileage? the pros? the cons? the expected maintence? smooth ride? is the 6 cyl a good engine?, towing limitations? will not having dual AC be a problem? (we live in the hot south)! What is the GVW? braking & brake wear? ALL POTENTIAL PROBLEMS? ALSO THE SAFETY!!!!!!!

Thanks!!!!!!

mizfitz

So here's my dilemma. I love the TLC. I really like the new Sequoia. Both fit what I need and want, although emotionally (hey, I'm a girl!!) I like the TLC better. They both drove beautifully.

The TLC is a lot more expensive.

I've found a 99 TLC in fantastic condition with reasonable mileage: price about $39k with some wiggle room.

I've spec'd out a new 2002 Sequoia on CarsDirect with everything I want for about $38k.

Am I crazy to want a USED TLC over a NEW Seq??? Is this a dumb choice since both are quality 4x4's?

Thanks to all!

MizFitz

dmac8

I have a 1995, which is more or less the same vehicle as the 96. Presently, I have 94,000 miles and it has been very reliable, except, the ABS light is on and been traced to a failed speed sensor that the dealer wants $700 to replace. Also, I suspect my diff lockers don't work and that is another big buck item. But that, along with new front wheel bearings and several break jobs have been the only issues over the years and miles.

I towed a loaded UHaul trailer that weighed about 4300 pounds from Chicago to LA. Going up steep hills, big rigs will pass you, but on the flat, handling at 75 mph was very good. It also did this when the outside temp was over 100, and the AC was on.

As a car pooling vehicle, expect 10 mpg if stop and go traffic. Also, since you are entering the high maintenance realm for that vehicle, making it a commuter will up the wear.

The Suburban should be a mutch more satisfactory tow vehicle, just because of the hp and torque. However, it's over all quality will not match the LC, and certainly, it won't perform anywhere near as well in off road situations.

As a commuter, the Suburban would be preferable when carpooling because of the inside space.

My truck cools fine, even without rear AC, and that's operating in a lot of high temp desert environments. As far as the durability of the LC engine, I've asked that question myself. At 94,000 mine runs strong and doesn't burn any oil.

However, if I had to choose a vehicle that would have a lot of people in it all the time and towing is a major isssue, I'd probably opt for the Suburban.

y2ktlc

Since nobody posts for two days, let me stir it up a bit.

Someone mentioned in Lexus 470 board that he saw the GX470 was registered in US Patent and Trademark office on July 25, 2001. Will that indicates TLC is going to be shifted under Lexus? Anybody knows? I know TLC name plate will not disappear in this world, since I saw many types of TLC in other countries. But, how about in USA? Cliff, any insider thoughts?

cliffy1

All I know is the rumor that the LC will cease to exist in its current format within the next couple of years. This rumor holds that the LC will go "retro" while the Lexus with continue with the luxury market. If this rumor turns out to be true, I would expect to see something akin to the Discovery 90 wearing a Land Cruiser badge.

joeeblow1

Bring in the 78 series. That would be excellent and very improbable .

http://www.lc78.toyota.com.au/LandCruiser78/HomePage/0,,,00.html

hicaira

As would the LC 90 series. They'd have to blow away the same sized (same frame) 4Runner. Still, a SWB solid axle turbodeisel LC90 would make a pretty potent off-roader....

HiC

joeeblow1

The 90 is the Prado, which is basically a 4Runner. IFS front end, V6, etc.

mymaxima

I also test drove a '98 TLC last night. About six months ago, I also test drove '01 TLC. I couldn't believe that an almost 4-year old SUV still has the feeling of the brand new. It was stickered at $33k. Next I tested new Sequoia. I can tell why there is about $10k difference between two SUVs.
But, as she mentioned, the idea of getting 4-year old SUV at $33k seems quite crazy. I also would like to hear from anyone who purchased used TLC and how happy/unhappy they are. Any comments?

y2ktlc

Cliff, thanks a lot.

Joe, interesting info on LC/78. I like the 11-seater. I can use it to haul my relatives. :-)

ironside7

No, neither of you are insane for wanting a used TLC over a Sequoia. I was faced with a similar dilemma about 8 months ago and went the used TLC route (98 TLC). I went with the TLC because the Sequoia felt way too big and underpowered. The TLC, while also a big car, felt very nimble and powerful, not to mention that it is a great looking automobile.

I've taken my TLC on several long road trips, which confirmed to me I made the right choice. Besides for a couple of minor dashboard rattles that I can't seem to get rid of, I've had no problems.

Cliffy -

Any chance that used TLC values will go up if Land Cruisers go "retro"?

tnhhudson

I've been using a Fram PH8A oil filter with 5W-30 Mobile 1, what is this new smaller filter you are talking about? Is it offered by Toyota? Is there an added advantage to using of factory filters?

nrossi

In June I had the same delema. a used TCL or a new Sequoia. I went with the a 98 TLC, for the same price you are talking about. It had about 33K on it then. I decided on the LC for a few reasons. It was the right size - Big but not huge. The Sequoia is very large and if I needed the extra space I would have gone with it. Indeed the interior furnishings are more up to date on the Seq then the LC, but I like the interior of the LC.

As far as the ride, it drives, and handles great. In fact I prefer driving my LC over our car - a 2001 Passat.

I also prefer the locking diffs on the 98 to the electronic diffs on the new Toyotas. I have taken my LC on the beach with the the rear and center diffs locked. Words like 'tank', 'tractor', and 'unstoppable' come to mind.

I am very happy with my LC. I find it to be a very refined and useful SUV, and I expect to be driving it years from now.

By the way, I paid $33K for mine in June ( a great price at the time). When I looked in the glove compartment it had the original sticker. The car listed for over $52K. I like to look at it like I got a $50K car for $33k.

Good luck.

poppadoc1

HOPE THIS ISN'T TOO DUMB OF A QUESTION BUT WHAT DOES THE TERM GO "RETRO" MEAN? AS IN RESPONSE #1370....THANKS

dnscud

THE WAIT WAS WORTH IT. LAST DEC 26 I FINALLY GOT MY FIRST TLC, A 96 MODEL. I THINK IT WAS A OFF LEASE VEHICLE. IT HAD ONLY 46000 ON IT. I`VE NOW HAD IT ALMOST A FULL YEAR AND IT HAS BEEN FLAWLESS. IT HAS BEEN OFF-ROAD.

cliffy1

On this one, I'm not too sure myself as I am just repeating the term that was used to describe it to me. I was unable to get further details. I assume that is will go back to its roots. It would not surprise me to see something akin to the Defender 90 as some point with the LC badge.

stever

My favorite example is rain gutters. Aircraft style (i.e., hidden, aerodynamic) rain gutters were introduced for cars in the US in the 30's, or so I understand. Then we got "real" rain gutters through the 80's. In the '90's, the car makers went "retro" with hidden gutters again (ok, maybe it was really to help the drag and mileage). Anyway, now it's hard to find a "real" external rain gutter on the typical car or SUV. (I happen to like utilitarian stuff, like real gutters).

So any styling throwback to another era could be said to be going retro (think PT Cruiser). I'm of an age where I'm getting pretty retro myself.

Steve
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poppadoc1

THANKS CLIFFY1. THANKS STEVE. THERE'S A NICE PICTURE OF A "NEW" MERCEDES SUV CALLED THE G500 GELAENDEWAGEN IN THE FUTURE VEHICLES SECTION AT MOTORTREND.COM .............HHMMMM.......AS A DESIGN CONCEPT I WONDER IF "RETRO" JUST MEANS THE DESIGNERS HAVE RUN OUT OF FRESH NEW IDEAS. I'VE HEARD ANOTHER RUMOR THAT THE SEQUOIA WILL BASICALLY REPLACE THE TLC. BIGGER TRUCK FOR LESS MONEY. I HOPE TOYOTA DOES DECIDE TO DISCONTINUE PRODUCTION OF THE TLC. FROM WHAT I'VE READ THE CURRENT MODEL INTRODUCED IN 1998 IS SO WELL BUILT IT SHOULD ALMOST LAST FOREVER AND ON TO TOP THAT OFF YOU WOULD NEVER HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT BEING UPSTAGED BY YOUR NEIGHBORS NEW ONE..............LOL.......HAVE A WONDERFUL AND BLESSED DAY ALL AND A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON.

philg87

I would like to tell everyone.... TO YOU AND ALL YOUR LOVE ONES HAVE A VERY SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS.

joeeblow1

The spec'd oil filter for the 1fzfe is a smaller filter. There are several different, smaller filters in fact. I don't know the details on which is which, but one is pricey and the other is not. The old, large filter is still available, I believe, but it's being phased out. I bought 10 of them earlier this year.

IMO Fram oil filters suck. It's your money and your vehicle. Cut open the OEM filter (or other quality aftermarket one) and a Fram filter, and you'll see quite a difference.

dnscud

the problems with your 96 can be taken care of cheaper than you think. if you can do the repairs yourself. as for the sensor, try some of the tlc club sites, they sometimes have used parts. as for the lockers, ive read that its mostly dirt buildup from the breather vent. remove the solinoid and claen and lube. good luck

mvd2

I have a '01 TLC that I just replaced the windshield for the first time with a reputable dealer in Boulder, CO. I had them look it over twice today, they say it's perfect. I've noticed twice as much wind noise with the new windshield as before. Any suggestions how to correct this? Is it the diameter of the glass their using or is after market windshields a slightly different shape? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

rbeck2

I have a 2000 TLC, and also had to have the windshield repaired due to a large rock hitting the windshield. I had the dealer put an OEM windshield in and also immediately noticed twice the wind noise. The dealer said everything was "perfect" when I took it back in. Unfortunately, it was not "perfect". The wind noise drove me crazy for two weeks...it was not really loud, but not the quiet cabin I was accustomed to. Anyway, I went to an independent glass dealer and to make a long story short they found that the seal around the glass had some missing glue. They injected more of this glue like material (excuse my ignorance) after they removed the cosmetic molding and fixed the problem! It will be extremely difficult to "hear" where the wind is coming from...just make sure the seal is complete all the way around the glass. Hope this helps.

tidester

I had a similar experience with a previous vehicle I owned and it is completely inexplicable to me! Whatever the cause, it must be something very subtle like the smoothness of the glass or changes in the sealing.

tidester
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rdwrdw44

My wife is driving a '99 Yukon and we have had no real issues. Our neighbor just bought LX 470 and has offered us his 2000 TLC with 65k for $31. Looking at Edmunds this seems right in line with trade in/loan value. By the way, the TLC is very clean and has books and records. We have driven the TLC and there is no comparison to the Yukon. Any thoughts on the price relative to the high miles?

jbudelman

I'm ready for a new set of tires...do you all have some recommendations? I want the best I can get.
Thanks, J.B.

jagger6

I am in the market for a 2002 TLC w/ DVD nav and was wondering what people are paying out there.

Thanks for any info.

>jagger6

ruking1

#1391

While there are brands and tires within and outside a brand, that certainly are better or more suited to specific activities, one of the best all around tires, especially, if you spend most of time on road is the Michelin LTX.

a1gregg

Need to make a decision on the exterior color for my new UZJ100. I prefer black, but I plan to be operating mostly in the SouthWest US and I have been cautioned by friends that the interior will get hotter than I bargained for.

I know that black will heat up faster and get hotter than the lighter colors, but how much faster and how much hotter? Is there any objective way to determine if I can live with it?

My last two vehicles have been white and light tan, so I haven't given this issue any thought until now.

Comments of any kind appreciated. Need to make a decision by Wednesday.

ruking1

Not only does it heat up faster and hotter (min of 15 degrees hotter) but it stays hotter as long as you are in the sun.

Black paint wears down app 3-5 times faster. And of course, you know that black is far more labor intense to maintain in good condition.

dmcdonnell

I have had my LC since Aug. 2000 and am in general very pleased with it. I did need to get the
TSB done related to the rear brakes squeeking when cold though. So far, (been 2 weeks), they
have been quiet. The dealership is really going out of their way to make sure I'm completely happy with the warranty service. I've had several follow-up phone calls

Anyways, my question to the group is related to the temperature controls in the LC. I don't seem to get consistency with the settings and always have to adjust the temp setting in order to maintain comfort. This also happens with the A/C in the summer, but less so than for heat. This of course is not using the auto setting. Does anyone else experience this? Exactly how does the temp. mechanism work? It seems to be a little crude. Also, it would be nice to have the LCD temp readout be for inside rather than outside.

Thanks in advance,

Dave Mc

raybear

It all depends on where you are looking. I have a guy trying to get one for invoice today. Not gonna happen in the Bay Area.

Check Edmunds TMV. They often research different regions of the country so you can at least get a price to use as a benchmark.

ruking1

#1396

If you are not used to using the auto AC, constant adjustment is the way that it works. Even more so for darker colored TLC's. The TLC AC system whether you have the auto/manual or just manual works pretty well. I would just try the auto AC to see if it brings you more satisfaction.

doudoudid

jagger6: i have been offered $10k and $9k off MSRP for a 02' TLC with DVD in the bay area, so this kind of deal do exist even in the bay area. it really depends on how hard you push and whether you have done enough research, email me at kenny@pdi.com for details if you want.

raybear

I'll bite. Who's doing that kind of deal in the Bay Area? Sent you an email also.

doudoudid

after i sent out this email, i called the dealer again to confirm that. the reason i am not reviewing the dealer i because i want to make a deal with dealer by recommending someone. and he agreed if i send him guy that actually mention my name. i will get some accessaries installed on my 02 sequoia SR5 with invoice price or lower.
i reviewed this dealer's name a while ago publicly and asked for this kind of favor and i was ignored. but this time i did get some email and a deal

mbooze

Is it possible to add the auto function to the other 3 windows on a 2000 LC? Is it as simple as a new switch or would it require wiring modifications?

Thanks, Mike

lpc68

i was wondering if anybody has had a problem similar to the one i am having now on my fj80. my front suspension seems to be loose, rattling grinding when i go over bumps and when i back up. when i start my car the engine makes a grinding noise as well. i was thinking that perhaps an engine mount might be loose or rusted through. the noise is coming from the front drivers wheel area. its not a heat sheild rattling sound. its weird because i wouldnt think that a suspension problem would cause a strange noise upon engine startup.

thanks for any input.