FZJ80 and Tacoma. Evaluating the choice
- Thread starter Scott Brady
- Start date
Pskhaat
2005 Expedition Trophy Champion
Why not FJ80?
I'm coming into this about a month too late, but:
I would have to argue that the FJ80 (not FZJ80) is the greatest platform. # of reasons:
+ 3F-E over 1FZ-FE (lots of bullet points here). 1FZ-FE is prone to head gasket failure, overheating, as well as particular heater hose failures without warning. 3F-E has one oil plug to fill and it's bulletproof. 3F-E is easier to work on, has serious back-compatibilities with the prevalent 2F for accessories and gaskets where the 2F can be found worldwide. 3F can be carb'd in worst case scenarios (OK the 1FZ maybe too, but it's a rarity). 3F-E doesn't have timing chain.
+ 3F-E can be mated to a manual tranny very easily with readily available international and US parts.
+ 15" wheels. 'nough said about tire and wheel choices in other countries. With that come vented front backing plates for potentially cooler front braking.
+ FJ80 better deal $ wise.
+ All lift/suspension/body parts are shared with FZJ80.
+ Factory engine=off cooling fan.
+ Automatic tranny A44? considered to be superior to the latter model FZJ80 A343s
Some minuses/cons:
- Semi-floating rear end with drums; vs. full-floater/disc FZJ80 rear.
- Less hooves in the hood.
- No factory lockers (but can easily be added obviously). VERY easy and simple to add rear locker.
I'm coming into this about a month too late, but:
expeditionswest said:
I would have to argue that the FJ80 (not FZJ80) is the greatest platform. # of reasons:
+ 3F-E over 1FZ-FE (lots of bullet points here). 1FZ-FE is prone to head gasket failure, overheating, as well as particular heater hose failures without warning. 3F-E has one oil plug to fill and it's bulletproof. 3F-E is easier to work on, has serious back-compatibilities with the prevalent 2F for accessories and gaskets where the 2F can be found worldwide. 3F can be carb'd in worst case scenarios (OK the 1FZ maybe too, but it's a rarity). 3F-E doesn't have timing chain.
+ 3F-E can be mated to a manual tranny very easily with readily available international and US parts.
+ 15" wheels. 'nough said about tire and wheel choices in other countries. With that come vented front backing plates for potentially cooler front braking.
+ FJ80 better deal $ wise.
+ All lift/suspension/body parts are shared with FZJ80.
+ Factory engine=off cooling fan.
+ Automatic tranny A44? considered to be superior to the latter model FZJ80 A343s
Some minuses/cons:
- Semi-floating rear end with drums; vs. full-floater/disc FZJ80 rear.
- Less hooves in the hood.
- No factory lockers (but can easily be added obviously). VERY easy and simple to add rear locker.
Scott Brady
Founder
pskhaat said:
The 100 series is also a great platform, and the prices have begun to slump in recent months. The main reason for excluding it was for price.
I have driven thousands of miles in Mexico and the Southwest with Doron in his UZJ100. The truck never ceases to perform, though it does struggle some in mud and sand due to the weight. It wants to dig to China...
The size of the truck is actually an advantage for expedition work. All of the "roads" in Mexico are driven by full-size trucks, so the 100 is perfect.
I even might purchase one when the Trooper finally dies.
blupaddler
Conspirator
I have driven a Tacoma only a couple of times. Scott's, before the new super suspension. My dad's Taco, prerunner. I really like the peppy-ness(?) of the 3.4. I have primarily been a truck driver before my 80. I was actually considering a Taco, 80, and Tundra before I decided on my 80.
I picked the 80 because I couldn't afford a Tundra, and the Taco's were a little too small. The D Cab is is great, but you couldn't sleep in the bed. Scott has the tent though which is very nice. I did want the second window/door feature for the dog. So that eventually ruled out the Tundra. And, in all actuality, the Tundra was out of my price range.
This past weekend, I noticed Speedy-Scott, Pasquale, and Chris. They were flying across the fire roads. I was trying to keep up. It was fun, but, obvious that the Taco's were much better suited that I. I also got some "souvenirs" from AZ b/c of my added width.
The truck is nice because you don't have everything right behind you. There is no risk of everything coming flying at you. The is something nice about locking up the shell.
Regarding seating...the Tacoma has much to be desired. However, the 80's don't go back far enough. The leather cracks, and I personally get tired of sitting in my seats for long periods of time. The most comfortable seats in my opinion are the bucket seats from a T100.
My opinion...I don't know. I miss my T100 from days gone by. That was almost perfect. Great size...Not to big, not too small. Great ride and handling. Drawback, engine size (not big enough?-solved with s/c), size...
I picked out my 80 b/c I wanted to sleep in the back, have a second set of windows (that rolled down), and be able to follow that desire of going where I wanted to and not worrying. My 80 might seem like a lemming, but the ARB, Slee, Kaymar is a proven system so far. My "other" systems will hopefully be different.
I picked the 80 because I couldn't afford a Tundra, and the Taco's were a little too small. The D Cab is is great, but you couldn't sleep in the bed. Scott has the tent though which is very nice. I did want the second window/door feature for the dog. So that eventually ruled out the Tundra. And, in all actuality, the Tundra was out of my price range.
This past weekend, I noticed Speedy-Scott, Pasquale, and Chris. They were flying across the fire roads. I was trying to keep up. It was fun, but, obvious that the Taco's were much better suited that I. I also got some "souvenirs" from AZ b/c of my added width.
The truck is nice because you don't have everything right behind you. There is no risk of everything coming flying at you. The is something nice about locking up the shell.
Regarding seating...the Tacoma has much to be desired. However, the 80's don't go back far enough. The leather cracks, and I personally get tired of sitting in my seats for long periods of time. The most comfortable seats in my opinion are the bucket seats from a T100.
My opinion...I don't know. I miss my T100 from days gone by. That was almost perfect. Great size...Not to big, not too small. Great ride and handling. Drawback, engine size (not big enough?-solved with s/c), size...
I picked out my 80 b/c I wanted to sleep in the back, have a second set of windows (that rolled down), and be able to follow that desire of going where I wanted to and not worrying. My 80 might seem like a lemming, but the ARB, Slee, Kaymar is a proven system so far. My "other" systems will hopefully be different.
Desertdude
Expedition Leader
Note:
Landtank on the mud board - has seat brackets along with a fine install pdf - to move the drivers seat back approx. 2" I bought a pair and look forward to the installhttp://www.paulenglish.com/ivr/
Landtank on the mud board - has seat brackets along with a fine install pdf - to move the drivers seat back approx. 2" I bought a pair and look forward to the installhttp://www.paulenglish.com/ivr/
RAM5500 CAMPERTHING
OG Portal Member #183
Well, i have owned the following Toyota vehicles:
99 Tacoma
93 FZJ80 Landcruiser
I do really like both of them but choose the Landcruiser for a few different reasons. Mainly a size thing and i felt the cruiser was much more roomy for my big frame!
Both are awesome vehicles in stock form and even better when modified!
I wouldnt hesitate to take either one on a long range expedition trip!
My .02 On The Landcruiser "vs" Tacoma
Landcruiser Pros:
-Super Durable and Reliable
-Much Roomier Inside (can easily fit me and 5 friends to go snowboarding)
-Built like a tank, very reliable
-Easy to work on
-Great aftermarket support
-Rides amazing well with the 2.5 OME kit
-VERY comfortable seats (leather) with power lumbar support, helps out tremdously on long trips
-Surprisinly Much Tighter Turning Radius Then The Taco
-Low mileage FZJ80 is much less intial $ then a low mileage tacoma.
-Factory Front and Rear Locker Option
-Very Trail Capable in Stock Form
-Extensive "Expedition" aftermarket parts available for the FZJ80 (long range fuel tanks, water tanks, dual batteries, storage drawers, etc.....)
Landcruiser Cons:
-Horrendous gas mileage
-Headgasket Issues
-PHH Issues
-Limited lift options due to unique caster adjustment options
-Not at all as common @ the Tacoma. If you do happen to break down in the middle of nowhere, spare parts are not that easy to find and most dont interchange with other models
-Easy To Break Into (rear slider window). Mine has been broken into twice
-Replacement parts can get very expensive!
-Poor quality leather in pre 95 models usually very badly cracked
Tacoma Pros:
-Peppy motor, fun to drive
-Very Common, replacement parts easy to find
-Very Capable in stock form!
-Aftermarket support is increasing quickly
-Very Durable and Reliable
-Nice size bed for a smaller truck
-Impressive Ground Clearance
-Factory Rear Locker Option
Tacoma Cons:
-Interior very cramped for large people (i am 6'3" 265lbs and didnt fit in it too good)
-Seats. Not very comfortable for extended periods of time!
-Large Turning Radius!
This is of course, just my .02
99 Tacoma
93 FZJ80 Landcruiser
I do really like both of them but choose the Landcruiser for a few different reasons. Mainly a size thing and i felt the cruiser was much more roomy for my big frame!
Both are awesome vehicles in stock form and even better when modified!
I wouldnt hesitate to take either one on a long range expedition trip!
My .02 On The Landcruiser "vs" Tacoma
Landcruiser Pros:
-Super Durable and Reliable
-Much Roomier Inside (can easily fit me and 5 friends to go snowboarding)
-Built like a tank, very reliable
-Easy to work on
-Great aftermarket support
-Rides amazing well with the 2.5 OME kit
-VERY comfortable seats (leather) with power lumbar support, helps out tremdously on long trips
-Surprisinly Much Tighter Turning Radius Then The Taco
-Low mileage FZJ80 is much less intial $ then a low mileage tacoma.
-Factory Front and Rear Locker Option
-Very Trail Capable in Stock Form
-Extensive "Expedition" aftermarket parts available for the FZJ80 (long range fuel tanks, water tanks, dual batteries, storage drawers, etc.....)
Landcruiser Cons:
-Horrendous gas mileage
-Headgasket Issues
-PHH Issues
-Limited lift options due to unique caster adjustment options
-Not at all as common @ the Tacoma. If you do happen to break down in the middle of nowhere, spare parts are not that easy to find and most dont interchange with other models
-Easy To Break Into (rear slider window). Mine has been broken into twice
-Replacement parts can get very expensive!
-Poor quality leather in pre 95 models usually very badly cracked
Tacoma Pros:
-Peppy motor, fun to drive
-Very Common, replacement parts easy to find
-Very Capable in stock form!
-Aftermarket support is increasing quickly
-Very Durable and Reliable
-Nice size bed for a smaller truck
-Impressive Ground Clearance
-Factory Rear Locker Option
Tacoma Cons:
-Interior very cramped for large people (i am 6'3" 265lbs and didnt fit in it too good)
-Seats. Not very comfortable for extended periods of time!
-Large Turning Radius!
This is of course, just my .02
Last edited:
Scott Brady
Founder
Great comparison Kevin :beer:
The seats of my Tacoma are the one remaining problem area. I hope to have that resolved before the Baja trip.
The seats of my Tacoma are the one remaining problem area. I hope to have that resolved before the Baja trip.
RAM5500 CAMPERTHING
OG Portal Member #183
expeditionswest said:
On another note, the chase truck we were driving for the recent 1000 was a loaded Chevy 2500hd pickup. The seats were amazing comfortable (possibly some of the nicest i have sat in) and looked to have identical controls and mounting as my FZJ. I am going to look into this further and possibly upgrade!
We were in this truck for about 12 hours driving all over the rugged terrain of baja and not once got uncomfortable! (and i have a senstive back)
I am afraid though, if i put Chevy parts in my rig, it might start breaking down!
j/k
Last edited:
kcowyo
ExPo Original
Word.blupaddler said:
I prefer the utility of a truck over an SUV for my own personal vehicle. We have a '99 4Runner, that my wife drives and loves, and it's great for short family trips plus we can keep the dog in the back. Like the Tacomas, I feel a little cramped in the drivers seat of our 4Runner.
I chose a T100, over a Tacoma, for the additional interior room in the cab, larger bed and payload and to build something different. With less than 58K T100's sold in the US, I can have Toyota reliablity in a unique package. Plus I'm a little bit of a neat freak, but if I have to throw a muddy blown tire, shovels, hi lift or tow strap in the back of a truck I don't care. It would irk me to no end to have to move all my sleeping stuff in an SUV to make room for a flat mud covered tire, firewood, etc.
With all that in mind, I would love to swap the wife out of the 4Runner for an 80 or 100 series 'Cruiser. Seeing Robb, Ross and Scott's Cruisers at the ExPo Rally really confirmed that.
blupaddler
Conspirator
KC has made a REALLY good point.
EX. On the Picacho Del Diablo trip in Baja it started snowing. Yes, snowing, we were at 8000'. Anyway, we all decided to pack up and leave. Well, our sleeping area is the back of the 80. And we had to put all that wet stuff back into the 80. We ended up staying in a hotel that night. But, imagine the hassles of taking all that wet stuff out and attempting to sleep on/in that area.
EX. On the Picacho Del Diablo trip in Baja it started snowing. Yes, snowing, we were at 8000'. Anyway, we all decided to pack up and leave. Well, our sleeping area is the back of the 80. And we had to put all that wet stuff back into the 80. We ended up staying in a hotel that night. But, imagine the hassles of taking all that wet stuff out and attempting to sleep on/in that area.
blupaddler
Conspirator
ACTUALLY, the point here might be to find some sort of "detached" sleeping system. Because those of us that sleep in the back of our 80 or back of the truck, this is a situation to consider.
So...Chalk one up for the roof tent! I just need to figure out how to get the dog up there.
So...Chalk one up for the roof tent! I just need to figure out how to get the dog up there.
BajaTaco
Swashbuckler
blupaddler said:ACTUALLY, the point here might be to find some sort of "detached" sleeping system. Because those of us that sleep in the back of our 80 or back of the truck, this is a situation to consider.
So...Chalk one up for the roof tent! I just need to figure out how to get the dog up there.
I have encountered the same scenario, and it's not too bad if you have a roof rack that you can pack the wet/muddy stuff on until you have time to clean it and dry it out. I also carry some plastic tarps for when I need to put something dirty/messy in the back on top of the cargo deck. I think an issue with the roof tent in the same scenario is that you would have to close up the tent inside the case while it was still all wet - which could present some problems as well. I haven't used one though, so maybe those who have used a roof tent and had to put it away wet could comment.