UNDER CONSTRUCTION
80 Series Upgrade Information
So you bought an 80 Series Landcruiser...
Every customer has different
needs and a different end goal. That being said, I have attempted to give
80 Series Landcruiser owners some insight to some of the more common and
popular upgrades. These upgrades are not as much aesthetic improvements,
but rather real world modifications that can make your vehicle based exploring
and wheeling trips even more enjoyable.
Typical Modification
Priority List Overview:
1. Suspension
2. Protection
Bumpers
Sliders/Steps
3. Engine & Drivetrain
Modifications & Accessories
Snorkels
Axle
& Differential Upgrades
Lockers
Gearing
Axle & Drive Shafts
4. Accessories
Auxiliary Lighting
Headlight Upgrades
Additional Lights
Recovery
Basic Recovery Gear
Winch
Winch Recovery Gear
On-Board Utilities
Air/CO2
Hot Water (Shower Systems)
Welder Systems
Dual Battery Systems & Solar Charging Setups
Roof Top
Cargo Racks
Rooftop Tents & Awnings
Interior
Freezer/Fridge Units
Drawers/Storage
Communications/Navigation
1. Suspension
The 80 Series Landcruisers
is very capable in the stock form, however the addition of a suspension
lift will go a long way to further its offroad capability. The coil spring
system setup makes for a rather easy to upgrade suspension. Lifts ranging
from 1" - 4" can be installed for well under a $1000 and include all of
the necessary upgrades. Suspension setups in excess of 4" are available,
however the amount of needed modifications and additional parts vastly
increases from the 1" - 4" systems. Options can be seen here: http://www.cruiseroutfitters.com/sus_80series.html
2. Protection:
Front Bumper:
The large size of the 80
Series leaves it fairly susceptible to body damage. By adding a front bumper,
one can not only protect the body but also allow future mounting of a winch.
The bumper will also allow mounting of additional lighting and antennas.
The ARB bumpers are available in both the Winchbar and non winch varieties
and are one of the most popular options on the market due to their excellent
construction, finish, durability and styling. Options can be seen here:
http://www.cruiseroutfitters.com/acc_ARBbullbars.html
Sliders:
The long wheelbase of the
80 Series is very advantageous for numerous reasons, but it also results
in a poor break over angle. Sliders will not only allow you to "slide"
over rocks & obstacles, but they will also help to protect your rocker
panels, doors, etc. Other considerations include incorporating steps, fender
flare protection, side bars, catalytic converter & exhaust protection,
etc. While pre-fabricated bolt-on sliders are commercially available, many
prefer a custom installation tailored to their needs. Prices range from
$500 - $1000 depending on style, material, finish coatings, etc.
Rear Bumper:
3. Engine & Drivetrain
Modifications & Accessories
Snorkel:
The Safari Snorkel is regarded
as one of the most popular 80 Series upgrades. Giving your vehicle the
ability to ford deep water crossings and providing your motor with cooler,
cleaner air are major incentives. The downside is drilling a number of
holes in your fender. Waterproofing you rig does not end with a snorkel
install, realistically you should also waterproof your axles and gearboxes,
along with any other water sensitive systems (computers, compressors, etc.)
on your vehicle. Snorkels can be seen here:
http://www.cruiseroutfitters.com/safarisnorkel.html
Axle & Differential
Upgrades:
Lockers: If
your 80 Series is not equipped with the OEM electric lockers, you may consider
the addition of a locking differential in your axles. There are several
locker options available for the front or rear axle of the 80 Series, ranging
in price from ~$250 - $750 per axle.
Gearing: With the
addition of larger tires and the desire for better crawl ratios, one may
consider regearing the axles of the vehicle. Ratios from 4.56 - 5.29 are
commonly available for the 80 Series. Gearing information can be found
here: http://www.cruiseroutfitters.com/lockers.html
Axles & Drive Shafts:
As
80 Series see more demanding terrain, the stock axles and drive shafts
can become weak links. Aftermarket upgrades are commonly available, though
this is only commonly done on vehicles running much larger tires and extremely
difficult trails.
4. Accessories
Recovery Gear:
(see Recovery Gear Tech)
More Coming Soon!
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wrong, or incomplete? Please let us know! |