Just purchased a 1988 Toyota LandCruiser with 150K miles on it. An automatic trans and looks to have had very good care and servicing. Everything is factory and nothing is Mickey Moused. No black, white or blue smoke. Runs out nicely, a bit "truck-like," but then it's a truck. Anyone ever had one of these and can give me some estimates as to what I can expect in terms of length of life on this thing, motor and trans, and what items that one would suggest that I pay attention to the most. The owner moved out of the country and sold it to me for about 2 grand. I just couldn't pass it up, as I've always wanted a cruiser. So far I'm enjoying it, and i have to assume that this thing is going to eat a bit of gas. I think that since so much of it is original, that I should focus my efforts on replacing the thermostat, water pump, heater hoses, and fan clutch which seems weak. It never over heats and stays very cool during any given drive, but likes to start to creep up into the 1/2-3/4 way range (out of red) when at idle after driving. I certainly don't want to ever subject it to the possibility of an over heat condition and possibly blow a head gasket. I'm thinking that I need to adjust the valves too. Is this done while the car is actually running, or is the adjustment done at operating temperature with motor off. Sure would appreciate anyone's help and advice on where and how to proceed with this new vehicle. It seems to be a great truck! and I'm looking forward to whatever life is left in it. Oh, I've also been thinking about switching to pure synthetic motor oil (yes, all 8.2 quarts), is this advisable with this kind of mileage on the clock, or am I asking for trouble? I'm also using Napa oil filters at the moment and have drained the oil and installed Castrol HD
30wt. monograde oil for right now. Also am using Bosch Platinum plugs. Thanks again.Sincerely,
Jay N. Beechcraft