How would you build a simple yet capable FZJ80?
- Thread starter Metcalf
- Start date
CruiserAbuser
New member
I'd take my rig up that but I would suggest that with no lift and 33's that climb would be a challenge in an 80 series unless it was locked.
The wheelbase and breakover angles need to be considered, just adding skid plates isn't always the answer. Driving a low heavy vehicle hard over the rocks can lead to hangups that can be very challenging to recover.
The other issue are the approach and departure angles, tube bumpers will take care of much of that but not all.
I guess it comes down to definitions but I think most folks would suggest 35s and at least 3-4" of lift on an 80 for serious rock work (that's where I am, so I know would
). I consider expeditionary style travel a bit less aggressive then what you posted and 33s and no lift should be fine 99% of the time.
Metcalf
Expedition Leader
I'm looking for something in the middle so I don't have to get carried away.
With the tall skinny 33s I should be ok with the stock 4.10s, not ideal, but not bad from what I have heard.
The 255/85R16s fit on stock rims. That saves money.
Armor, bumpers, and fabrication is very affordable to me. I have a decent machine shop, fabrication shop, hoist, etc at work. I also get great prices on materials. So anything like bumpers, skid plates, and rockers just costs me materials and some time on the weekends.
Is it the ideal vehicle.....NO....is it an affordable compromise....I think so.
With the tall skinny 33s I should be ok with the stock 4.10s, not ideal, but not bad from what I have heard.
The 255/85R16s fit on stock rims. That saves money.
Armor, bumpers, and fabrication is very affordable to me. I have a decent machine shop, fabrication shop, hoist, etc at work. I also get great prices on materials. So anything like bumpers, skid plates, and rockers just costs me materials and some time on the weekends.
Is it the ideal vehicle.....NO....is it an affordable compromise....I think so.
Box Rocket
Well-known member
FWIW, I've got ~5" lift and 35's on my 80 with stock gears. The stock gears don't bother me at all with the large tires. Especially on the trail. I'm also running those tires (315 75 R16) on the stock wheels. Many people are doing the same.
Personally I think if you're going to be wheeling terrain like the photo you posted I'd for for a bigger tire than the skinny 255 you mentioned.
Personally I think if you're going to be wheeling terrain like the photo you posted I'd for for a bigger tire than the skinny 255 you mentioned.