I've daily driven an '83 for years before I laid her up for an overhaul, and these are my thoughts:
They're exceptionally good, dependable vehicles; their greatest strength is their simplicity. They're easy to work on, easy to fix and don't have a whole lot going on to kill them. The only thing that can kill one of these trucks is poor maintenance; the problems I've had were all easily preventable if I'd just taken the time to service the axle and transmission bearings and had the drive shafts serviced. If anything does go wrong, the fix is easy enough because of their simplicity.
- They are not spacious in any way, and they tend to be noisy: one of my motivations for the overhaul was to be able to drive to work without earplugs. A weekend with some CLD mat in critical areas will make a huge difference.
- An '83 should have a 5-speed and gusseted front axles. If it doesn't, someone broke something and replaced it. That notwithstanding, 1911 suggested sticking to backroads and byways and I agree fully. These trucks get squirrely at speed, but they'll truck along at 55 all day long without a gripe.
- A/C is doable, I'd advise a Vintage Air or other aftermarket unit, the parts for these A/C systems are unobtanium.
- The very first semi-serious mod I'd advise a new first-gen owner to do is upgrade the brakes. V6 calipers and FJ60 rotors make a huge difference!
- Find seats you like and swap 'em in, most of these trucks' seats tend to be clapped out.
- Before buying, always have a trusted mechanic give your prospective buy a thorough inspection and leakdown test, and pay for it yourself Don't expect the seller to do it for you, and don't take them "on their word".
- Keep a basic tool set with you at all times, being able to deal with an issue on the road or trail is a valuable ability.
- If you want to add electronics or wiring to it don't hack the factory harness, add in the systems with aftermarket fuse blocks or inline fuses.
My First Gen is the best vehicle I've ever owned, and once back off jack stands I wouldn't hesitate to take it anywhere. If you got for this truck, I'm sure that you'll love it, these things have a personality to them that's hard to find in todays appliance trucks.
