Hilux advise Please

[corosafari]

Hi
Looking at getting Hilux Double cab , 2.8 diesel or petrol could be an option as not doing many km.
Budget what we get for the misses honda accord so probably 7 to 9k if I chuck cash in too.
When did they stop the solid axle on these or was there an overlap with option for either?
Do they have LSD as standard?
Any thing else to look for.

Also thinking about 70 series SWB cruiser as seem good value , 3.5 diesel are fairly robust Ive been told.Not concened too much about lack of pwer as got 100 series cruiser for that.

Main use for short trips around Coro Town , towing and occasional beach launching tinny , club trips as joined Wilderness Ridgeriders 4WD club , work with founding member on ship. Also travelling to Auck once a month to join ship , about 2.5 hour drive.
I have done a bit of research , got my opinions on both but interested to hear other views.
thanks

[IcedJohnno]

If you're looking at a SWB cruiser then I would check out 70 series Prados. Being coil sprung you get useful artic with little mods and they go well. Also within your price range.

I have done nearly 200k in my 71 series and have found it to be strong. It has been known to go places too!

[corosafari]

what motor in that m8 , 2.4 turbo?What other motor option in these, manual also prefered.
cheers Definately more comfy I agree. See a few 70 's with coil conversion. Will keep an eye out , typical when Im looking for something they seem quite rare.

If you're looking at a SWB cruiser then I would check out 70 series Prados. Being coil sprung you get useful artic with little mods and they go well. Also within your price range.

I have done nearly 200k in my 71 series and have found it to be strong. It has been known to go places too!

[IcedJohnno]

The Lj series is 2.4te turbo electronic pre '93

The KZJ series is 3.0 te, the 1KZ-TE motor

They are better (KZJ), and some of them like mine are manual. Mine is the W version with two batteries , a second heater (rear) and a rear diff-lock as well.

[Hiluxhunter]

Hey man!

I have a 91 double cab hilux ute, goes sweet off road in the low ranges, being 2.8d its a bit gutless on the road but ive been told by a few people to turbo it which would give the needed extra power to get up to speed faster, the other thing ive found is it dosent seem to sit nicely at 100kms just seems to whine as its revving high. other than that i love it! been a really reliable truck! and pretty solid too!

[corosafari]

thanks for above feedback

As you stated Hiluxhunter , most 2.8 hilux owners happy with reliability although down on power. I have been driving a non turbo LWB safari on 33's towing caravan for last 4 years so immune to lack of power. Sold that for good money and scored a 2000 model 100 series cruiser, 4.2 intercooled turbo as standard , no certifying or hassle with insurance. Purely for towing and leave with the misses while away. This frees me up to get 2nd vehicle mainly as play toy.
After searching trade me those hilux's hold there price which is testament to there reliability and offroad suitability.
Was thinking keep it simple , no turbo, minimum electrics , easy to maintain and modify etc. Dont really need a ute as have trailer so thats why keeping options open. Have since realised most in my budget will have beam axle and lsd is standard I think.
thanks