Stock #6034
As forbidden fruit for us Americans, we never received the best version of the 80 series, the HDJ81. It’s a shame because the 4.2L 1HD-T engine is incredible, as its highly efficient, reliable, and makes gobs of torque for the performance crowd. Finished in a fresh coat of Army Green (6V7), this rig is set off the right way, with an aggressive set of 16″ D Window steelies, factory front winch, OEM spare tire swingarm, an aftermarket trailer hitch, OEM front rainguards, and rear privacy tint. Aside from a few light imperfections, the body is in good shape and this beast is fresh off a recent service. Having logged a mere 114k verified and documented miles, this triple-locked 1990 VX Limited model is barely broken in. Sure this car is an off-road icon, and ready to get down and dirty, but it would also make for a wonderful daily driver, convenient people hauler, or cool weekend cruiser.
The exterior gets the looks but the interior has more than enough equipment to keep you and your passengers happy. The optional grey leather upholstery is about as rare as it gets although the previous owner opted to protect it with a set of fitted Clazzio leather seat covers. Forward passengers benefit from heated seats although we must note the driver’s bucket no longer power adjusts. For a three decade old truck, the materials have held up nicely over the years too and show no notable defects outside of a few stress cracks and wear marks on the leather beneath. Typically prone to UV cracking and distortion, the dash is protected by a custom fit carpet mat and complements the leather upholstery nicely. In the center stack, USDM Boss audio sits front and center with Bluetooth compatibility, and an easy to use automatic climate control system lies adjacent. With cold A/C and hot heat on standby for both front and rear zones, all passengers can remain comfortable, and an optional power moonroof is present if you prefer to send some natural ventilation inside. Power windows and locks all work as advertised, and the optional “coolbox” center console can chill your beverages on any extensive road trips. Designed with utility in mind, the rear bench can tumble forward if you need to prioritize cargo space, and the controls for the factory triple lockers are within arms reach when you indulge in some off-road wheeling. For an 80 series, this example is as loaded as it gets while still maintaining the staunch Toyota build quality the brand is known for. We did want to note this 1990 only has lap belts in the rear from the factory, but when you factor in all the other goodies, it’s an appealing hauler regardless!
Under the skin, this body-on-frame masterpiece is as rugged as it gets. Add in some straight axles and triple lockers and you have an off-roader’s dream. The 1HD-T under the bonnet is fresh off an oil and filter service and churns over with a twist of the key thanks to two new 12v batteries we installed. New hood struts were installed just so the new owner could stare at the beauty of the straight six in reverence of its design. Like all of our diesel models, a new fuel filter was installed and we also replaced the air filter with a brand-new one. After we tested the alternator, we decided to replace the serpentine belts so that the electronics remain properly powered, and we sealed everything up with a new valve cover gasket up top. The 4.2L is linked to a full-time 4WD system through a stout automatic gearbox. Acceleration isn’t half bad for such a heavyweight and sustained highway cruising is comfortable. For low traction scenarios, a low-range 4WD and front, center, and rear lockers can be engaged. Better yet, both front hubs were rebuilt in house to get the most out of the 4WD. The suspension offers loads of ground clearance and can handle the rigors of daily use and abuse. New panhard bushings were added for state inspection purposes, while on the lift. The brakes feel confident thanks to new pads and rotors up front and grip is handled by four new 33″ Falken tires which have been mounted and balanced at each corner.