Truck or SUV, full size or compact

[Onestep]

All input appreciated. I like the FJ Cruiser too Stig but haven't looked at them real hard.
And you aren't kidding on the Taco used market, it's off the chart pricing.
I'd really like to have sufficent towing capacity in case the Tahoe takes a crap so i need to steer away from the Rav & Highlander.
Plus at 6'2" I'm not sure of the leg room in them. I get cramped easily.
While I'd love to find a pre-86 'yote, I'm afraid they would be worn down, trashed from off roading by some teenager and not dependable enough for me as a daily driver with the miles I drive.

[bacpacker]

I love the FJ but from the reports I have read their has been some reliabilty issues suspention wise in the first couple model years. Rthey would not take much abuse at all. Newer models I haven't kept up with but i suspect they have been improved.

An older truck most likely would require a overhaul. Good luck in the search.

[Onestep]

BC, that's my understanding on the FJ as well, some issues with the earlier models.
I'll keep on researching and looking.

[slowz1k]

Another angle you may consider... If you did happen to come accross a Toyota (or anything for that matter) that had been beat on.... And if you could get it for a song and dance.... You could always toss a crate engine in it, and call it new.
Of course a lot would depend on cosmetics and drive train, but most people with a knocking engine, or blown rings will sell for next to nothing. Most crates are under $3000.00... below is that 22R some of the guys have been talking about. I think it would look good in a late 80's 4runner....
Just a thought

[Possom]

Just an FYI on the 22r crate engines. The new blocks they are manufacturing are made in china and Taiwan. They aren't nearly as reliable as the old Japanese blocks. Your better off in the long run to find a Japanese block and have someone rebuild it with quality Japanese parts. One of my yotas is a dedicated offroad toy and all I ever use in it is Japanese parts.

[Taz Baby]

Here is what I am wanting. But still checking out the reviews on it.


Here are some reviews
http://www.edmunds.com/toyota/fj-cru...s.html?sub=suv

[bacpacker]

That is the Fj. My wife wants one too. I like them, but they aren't cheap.

[Taz Baby]

Here is the paint scheme I want for my FJ

[Taz Baby]

That is the Fj. My wife wants one too. I like them, but they aren't cheap.

used is better but you have to go over it with a fine tooth comb. I have a car that I can use for a trade in. A 2001 Chrysler Cirrus Forrest green.

[bacpacker]

I don't mind used, but like OS and I were discussing earlier in this thread. The early years of this model FJ had some issues. If you are considering used, I would recommend getting on a FJ forum and checking into these issues and what years they affected. I'm a member of a Tundra fourm and some folks have disucssed the FJ problems there at different points. It is a very popular ride, but there are things to make yourself aware of. Like most cars I would assume.