1997 Toyota Landcruiser - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

surfndan · 09-08-2009, 01:10 AM

I am looking to buy a 1997 Toyota Landcruiser with 139k miles on it. It is priced at $6800. According to the specs, it has a clean carfax report and has been in no accidents.

Is this car worth getting? How long will it last provided I do regular oil changes on the vehicle?

I live in DC and the car is in Florida so I was thinking about driving down there to purchase the car. Please let me know your thoughts. Thank you so much!

Dan.

***TrailDust*** · 09-08-2009, 01:56 AM

My first question with a vehicle that kind of mileage on it is always: Has the timing belt been changed and, if it has, was the water pump changed too?

BTW,

to Toyota Nation!

Makelo · 09-09-2009, 11:56 AM

Things to look out in a FZJ80 are:
HeadGasket
Birfields = Front Differential Nuckles (service needs to be completed every 50k-60k miles)
PHH Hose
U joints on both front & back drive shafts
Front brakes (they tend to wear fast)
Rear Main Seal

Also, look out for rust if the rig has a factory roof rack (rust around & inside rack wholes)
I will also check to see if the rig has differential lockers (Diff locks) which is a very desirable option on these vehicles. Almost like Turbos on Supras.
Keep us updated

tomvan72 · 10-13-2009, 10:04 AM

How often does the timing belt need changing?

ford_jj · 10-13-2009, 10:17 AM

According to your using of it. Then you can decide what you want to buy.

94SRUNNER · 10-17-2009, 10:45 AM

A 1997 Toyota Land Cruiser does not have a time belt. It has a timing chain which rarely needs changing. As for the price and mileage. That is a great deal. Have a mechanic take a look at it just to be sure. These are great rigs and will stand the test of time. That said they need to be cared for.

Check out IH8MUD.com for more information. It is the best site on the web for everything Land Cruiser related.

Good luck with the purchase.