1998 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, TX J95

uck from the past decade that’s seen such little use. This TX is also a looker, finished in Jewel Green/Silver (K12), and is set off by an optional front brushguard, OEM rainguards and 17′′ Bridgestone CV wheels. Fully loaded, and showing no glaring imperfections apart from some minor rock chips and scratches, this is a killer Japanese Classic with a reputation that precedes itself. Perhaps one of the greatest SUV’s we never received stateside, there’s a lot to love about this Prado, and we think you’ll feel the same way! The interior has a lot going for it. The 3rd row seating is a big draw, but the increased head and legroom are worth their weight in gold, too. It’s also packed with power amenities, useful and reliable equipment, and the grey cloth upholstery shows nary a stain or tear which is a clear indicator this rig was well cared for in a prior life. The middle and rear rows are versatile. You can flip the middle bench forward, and fold the rear jump seats off to the side to expand the cargo hold. Up front, the driver can get comfortable behind a tilt-adjustable steering column, and dual SRS airbags are standard for some added peace of mind. The center stack is easy to navigate, and automatic climate control works like a charm. The trim surrounding the switchgear has yet to succumb to unwanted cracks or fading. Accessible and primed for daily use, a full slate of power windows, locks, and power folding mirrors work as expected, in true Toyota fashion. The headliner is tight and tidy, too. The multicolored carpeted mats steal the show, and to sweeten the deal even more, we’ve included the original owner’s manual and maintenance booklets. Apart from a few carpet stains, it’s hard to critique this cabin as a whole, and it was clearly cared for well in Japan! The engine under the bonnet should be a welcome sight for any Toyota enthusiast. The 5VZ-FE is one of the brand’s best designs, and it was offered in abundance here stateside, making parts availability and service options a walk in the park. The suspension, brakes, and steering components are also 4Runner-derived too! We’ve given this V6 a hearty refresh, and we installed new valve cover gaskets and cam plugs to keep lubrication from the oil and filter service internal. A slight seep from the oil pan was noted as well, which shouldn’t be an issue for a long while. The six-cylinder cranks over with haste, thanks to a new 12v battery, and we installed a new engine air filter and fuel filter for a bit of a tune up. Under full load, this 4×4 feels peppy, and benefits from a transmission fluid change and new bushings on the automatic shifter. It soars up to highway speeds, and if you choose to trudge off the beaten path, the transfer case allows for a center locking differential and low gearing to be selected. The suspension is comfortable and benefits from new front struts and sway bar links. We refreshed the power steering system with a full rack rebuild. New seals were installed, as well as new inner and outer tie rods, before it was thrown back in. New front brake pads and rotors benefit the ABS system, and a fresh alignment was performed to polish everything off. Tracking dead straight, we went ahead and installed brand new Falken all terrain tires. Stylish, capable, and sure to last a long while, they make an already good truck drive even better!