Toyota FJ Cruiser Forum

Hi, I am new to this site and am excited to get into the word of FJ cruisers! I really like the new FJs but I am in LOVE with the older ones. I would like to learn more about them before ever buying one. Can anyone give me information on what it's like to use one for a daily driver? I'm talking about a '78-'80. Also what are the common rust areas, and what are the main things to look for when trying to avoid one with problems? Is there a guide to the differences in the year models? Thanks!
Kellie

Well the site owner, Squid would probably be more than accomidating to help you with some of your questions. He's an old school FJ owner.

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08 Voodoo Blue

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Look for one that has been done. Rust repair that is. I'm fairly new also, presently own a 2007 FJ Cruiser and also want an old school FJ. The ones I've looked at locally and on line are showing quite a bit of rust. Usually you will need to replace the rear "tub", that's from the firewall back. There are lots of spots prone to rusting thru. The bottoms of the doors, the sill right below the rear doors. The areas where the roll bars bolt in. The rocker panels on the outside below both side doors. Floor pans, usually the rear cargo floor pan. The frame, check all the seams,look for bondo, puddy puddy filler. Around the edges of the top where the white plastic/fiberglass meats the metal upper sides. Ok, guys whereelse?

Reason for getting one done is the time and cash it will save you. If it was done correctly. There are a TON of old FJ's out there in every condition. Don't believe any one when they say there rare, sorry to say that but I've seen so many recently thanks to the internet, I was amazed. If your willing to travel or locate someone to do an inspection, and then have it shipped, if need be, you can find the right one for you. Locally here in Florida I've found lot's of project FJ's for under $5000. Ones in nice condition but still needing some TLC will run you between $8000 and $16000. Asking prices they are. A nice project FJ could cost you anywhere from $5000 to $25000, over and above the original cost of the base FJ.Depending on the parts and quality of the resto job. Choose wisely! Good luck, the northern FJ's are more prone to rust unless they were kept inside and not exposed to salt on the roads due to snow and ice.

Well you pretty much nailed it Dirty.

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08 Voodoo Blue

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