Buyer's checklist: FJ40 Toyota Land Cruiser 40 Series 1960–1983

What to look for on this generation, worst first. Tick each line as you check it.

Free while the site is being tested. Every line comes from the dossier and keeps its source, and the dossier itself stays free.

Inspection sheet Mark up every panel, what is underneath and how it drives.

Look for 3

Known problems, and how to check for each.

Rust in the door bottoms, rear sill and wheel wellsAll yearsLook at the bottoms of the doors, the rear sill, the body around the fuel tank under the seat, the wheel wells and the outer front fender braces, then under the whole truck.^1,2
A tired engineAll yearsHave the compression tested. Miles say little on these trucks.²
Oil leaksAll yearsLook for oil at the transmission, the transfer case and the axles, and between the engine and gearbox.^1,2

Recalls filed for these model years. Not every car is covered; check the vehicle identification number with NHTSA.

Recall 69V0270001969Door scuff plates may have been fitted so they can short the wiring under them. Ask for proof the recall work was done.³
Recall 81V1170001981Long driving above 50 mph on very rough roads can break a steering tie rod. Ask for proof the recall work was done.⁴
Recall 89V1550001982–1983A rear lap belt may not retract fully and can be hard to release. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^5,6
Recall 91V1100001980–1983Welds inside the fuel tank can crack under heat and load and leak fuel. The tank is replaced. Ask for proof the recall work was done.^7,4,5,6

The boxes are for you: nothing you tick is sent or kept.