I am a Newbie to the forum and I just acquired a FREE 1996 LX450. The owner said it had 390,000 on it when the speedometer quit 9 years ago. I am a Vietnam Era Veteran and I have done all my own maintenance and my own modifications since the 60's. I am very much aware of the Land Cruiser history and reputation. I know that the LX450 is a Lexus in name only and mine is actually an FJ80 Land Cruiser with the optional 3 point differential lock. (with a gold "L" in the grill"). I consider the 1996 and 1997 Land Cruiser 80 series to be the last TRUE Land Cruisers. I believe that the Land Cruiser was the result of reverse engineering of the original Willys Overland Jeep and that the pinnacle of that engineering evolution was reached with the last of the 80 series. When the front suspension went from solid axle to independent and the engine went from diesel or inline 6 cylinder to V8 then, for me, that was the end of a chapter and then the page turns and it was a start of a new chapter. I am posting here because the vehicle I acquired actually was sold and badged as Lexus.
My car has nearly 500,000 miles. No rust, no accidents and is mechanically sound. There certainly is NO reason why it should not be road worthy for another 500,000 miles. My largest criticism is that leather seats will not last as long as the rest of the vehicle but even fabric would be well worn by now. I am upgrading the interior to fabric realizing that it will take away from the resale value. To an old man like myself there is a distinct difference in "value" and "worth".
Lexus diverged from the standard Toyota product line with a very successful product line that is grounded in high quality, as well as, being luxury orientated. The Land Cruiser was a product line of Toyota that was a truck and a utility vehicle product line built on a 4x4 design platform. The Lexus LX450 was a combination of the two product lines merging to meet a niche market that developed at that time. While most Lexus vehicles are unique and independent in design from Toyota, the LX450 is a Land Cruiser...A great Land Cruiser but it is a Land Cruiser in every since of the word.
I welcome your questions but I am not posting here to debate haters. If you are negative and full of vinegar then get a job on TV or run for Congress. I am presently rebuilding the front axle and replacing the stock seals with Marlin Crawler axle seals. I installed spindle bearing/bushings in the place of the original bushings, as well.
