Outer Limits 4x4 Board

G'Day

I am new to the forum and am considering purchasing a 1982 BJ42 Landcruiser. I am going to view it on the weekend and would like some hints/advice regarding what to look for in particular for a car of its age.

Of most concern is the engine, which has done 300,000 odd kilometres. Although I realise that the diesel (3.4L) is an engine which can go for well beyond 500,000km if treated properly, what would be some likely repairs to an engine of that age.

Finally, what is the maximum price to pay for such a vehicle, given that is standard mechanically with some generic extras such as a roll-cage and driving lights.

Also, is an NRMA check worthwhile for these sorts of vehicles.

Cheers

Bacchus

Hi Bacchus,

look for rust repairs around the bottom of the doors and in the sills under the doorways, around the rear windows, and the channel along the sides. also around the windows, in the radiator support panel, and the front of the bonnet.

look for oil leaks from transfer case, differentials, rear of engine, front of engine, power steering, and front axle steering knuckles - at the steering knuckles the leaks will be a dark grey/black thick goo which leaks onto the inside sidewall of the front tyres if the leak is bad. grab the top of all the wheels and shake them in-out, jack them up if you have free reign while you inspect. any play in the wheels is a sing of crook wheel bearings (f and r) or knuckle bearings (front only).

ask about the suspension - if it's still on factory springs/shocks (heaven forbid) they will NEED to be replaced, if aftermarket, ask how old the suspension is, evengood aftermarket suspension will still need love, especially new shocks, after 50 - 100,000km depending on the degree of abuse it has suffered over the years.



an NRMA inspection is worth the money as they will spot potential problems and their written report can help you negotiate the price.

there is a lot of variation in price for these vehicles, a dud one could go for as cheap as $3000ish, a super good one could go for almost $10,000.

they are a tough old bus and make a good first 4wd, the 3B motor is great on fuel and should last forever if treateed to fresh oil every 5000km. if the oil has been left too long between changes there will be black sludge under the rocker cover - pull the oil filler cap and stick your finger in to check. if this sludge is evident then listen to the front of the motor, especially when cold, whirring and grinding noises can indicate wear in the timing gears which can be prohibitively expensive to repair in the even of failure (cheaper to get another motor usually).

good luck and be prepared to catch the 4WDing disease where every cent you earn from now on is instantly absorbed by your machine!

cheers

Brian

Thanks very much Brian. Any other thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks again.

to simulate what its like owning a 40 series, get the mrs vaccum and attach it to your wallet....

gotta love em to bits but...

I had an 83 model 40 series with the 3b for about 4 years. Drove it hard, meticulous with the oil changes every 5k and had NO problems with the engine whatsoever. Only problem was the rear diff but that was driver induced attempting to wheelspin in 2wd in the mud..For about 5 minutes. They are one slow machine but just kept going and going, did 120 000kms in the time I had it..

Thanks RustyNail, they were my impressions of the vehicle from all the other Landcruisers I've seen owned by friends. Thanks for confirming my thoughts.

I can now go check this vehicle with confidence and much more knowledge than I had previously.

Thanks to all who responded.

Go for it but I might be biased. The only that shitted me when I bought mine 7 years ago was lack of power, but a Turbo fixed that and no power steering but yours being a 82 it may have power steering and a five speed espessially if it is a LX. Good luck.


Cheers Dazz