TOYOTA LAND CRUISER REAR AXLE issue. 70-Series

[@sterlingwallace7465]

I will never tire of the random things that i learn from your videos, just simple stuff like why the wheel bearing should be in the centre of the rim. I never knew there was a legit reason for not allowing huge offset rims and tyre spacers. Thanks Andrew.

[@angusmurray6578]

The David Attenborough of 4X4.

[@mjallenuk]

Probably the best insight into an oversight I've ever seen...

[@colinashby2786]

Matt Allen is it an oversight though? Or do Toyota not care?

[@taylorsukoshi6126]

It's not a oversight, it is common to help handling it's why many cars have staggered fitment. Even trucks and vans and race cars. Generally I would agree for off-road stability but this guy seems to prefer tarseal. Looking at trutrackers Web page they only state stability (on and off-road) and fuel economy to be the advantages.

[@chrisoncars8820]

Andrew, I purchased a 94 Land Cruiser 80 series here in the states a few years back. I have owned many 80 series and love them. Well I purchased this one about 500 miles from my home. I flew there and drove it back. While driving back, I was on an interstate and the front right wheel flew off the vehicle. Literally, I saw the wheel driving down the highway beside me. My car had fallen to the pavement and was riding on the disk brake which had broken loose from the axle and was spinning on the axle. I luckily did not wreck. I did not flip or spin, I simply slowed and pulled off the right side of the highway, from 77 MPH! Sometimes you get lucky. But when I looked at what happened, the previous owner had put 1 inch wheel spacers on and the bolts had broken allowing the rim to come off the wheel . . . . I researched it and these were cheap chinese made spacers, but I would warn anyone against it . . . .love your stuff . . . .

[@larryscarr7611]

The kind of money you pay for these trucks you would think Toyota would have had this issue sorted already! Thank you Andrew for another in-depth review.

[@overland-workshop]

I agree.

[@fmh357]

One thing I love about your channel is your passion for what you do. Keep it up.

[@JohnSmith-pd1fz]

An ingenious answer to a little known - perhaps - problem. Very informative as always. Thanks for posting.

[@carlosnunez8229]

Hi Andrew! Please note that the 70 series is also sold in many American countries. We still get them in Costa Rica and I know Panama and many other countries do too. Great video! Cheers!

[@jamesosullivan1545]

I tow an off-road caravan (tandem axle) with a tow all weight (when loaded) of approx 325 kilos. When towing with my recently acquired 79 series dual cab Landcruiser - with a 3900 KG GVM upgrade - when driving on the highway - acceptable handling - whilst driving off road tracks - acceptable, sand driving - I’m aware of the issues - but haven’t yet been there and done that with the van in toe. I have however noticed that on narrow roads where with on coming vehicles - I’ve needed to share the road and straddle the bitumen and gravel / dirt edge - I have noticed a fair amount of an instability issue - especially around sweeping bends - I’ve attributed this to the three track axle widths - in summary not a relaxing drive - with quiet a bit of steering correction issues . “The older cruisers handled a lot better” Because of my GVM due to the heavy van - the standard axle extension cost estimate to maintain the 3990 GVM is double the cost of the non GVM supply & fit. Not complaining just putting it out there for any person doing heavy towing. I now have to make a decision based on safety.

[@robwilson7654]

From an engineering perspective, there is no doubt that putting the centre of the load over the centre of the bearing is the best solution for bearing life, and this is an elegant solution. But overhung loads on bearings are not at all uncommon and may not be material to the bearings life depending on the way the axle is hung in its entirety. I have done over 70,000km on my 76 with 55mm spacers (fitted by a Toyota dealer) each side and have had no bearing issues on the rear-I tow a 2t trailer. The local farming community runs on the 79's using trailers in the 3.5t category, most with spacers. Ironically, I have only had to replace a front wheel bearing!

[@checkmilu]

Good video, thanks Andrew. My note is that my 76 series run on rear wheels with 55mm negative offset without any problem. The reason is that unlike on normal road car like Toyota Corrolla or Honda Civic, the Landcruiser has tapered roller wheel bearing (conned shape) which can withstand both axial forces and radial forces. The landcruiser's wheel bearings can easily handle the extra force of the negative offset. In addition, the Landcruiser design allows the wheel bearing to be periodically inspect and adjust pre-loaded with torque wrench and re-lube. So, in my opinion, if you don't worry about the legality of your modification, it's fine to use negative offset wheel if you do know how to inspect and maintain the car yourself.

[@overland-workshop]

thanks! Good advice.

[@MrDudeCZ]

An interesting topic as always in your videos, Andrew. In my opinion, as many here are discussing, the actual bearings are still stressed a bit more because the axle is attached to your leaf spring at a certain distance from the bearing. Lenghtening the distance means putting more stress on the said bearing even if proper offset is maintained. Of course, the bearing in this case is not the only part being under more stress. Your axle shafts are longer so they are under greater torsional forces which are relayed to the differential - thru spider gears to ring gear to pinion and so on. And it is not just the innards. The axle casing was designed with certain dimensions to certain specifications. Lenghtening axle tubes in this case then means greater stress on the casing therefore a possible problem too. All in all I think it really comes to what we use our vehicles for. If for onroad and casual offroad, to correct road manners then I dont see a big problem, since Toyota's axles are usually quite strong and replacing the bearings once they have gone is not a big deal. If for strict hardcore offroad, rock crawling maybe, then I would look for a different axle.

[@DARANGULAFILM]

The bearings will carry no more stress. If anything they may experience slightly less in having slightly more leverage over the mass of the entire housing. Having the wheel load centres further outboard will add bending stress to the housing itself. This is a valid observation and points to a negative trade-off. The longer axle shafts will experience the same torsional forces. Being longer they might even be slightly less likely to fail in having slightly more elasticity to absorb shock loads. That of course is moot if the axle housing itself bends and a corresponding bending stress is imposed on the axle shafts. Then they may fail at the inner splines or at the hub disk.

[@muzzamoose]

I can listen to you all day.Your voice brings depth and character to any subject you talk about.I can see you take over from David Attenborough.Cheers Muzzamoose

[@johannf3616]

Hit like 25 seconds into the video! Exactly what i wanted to hear,Thank you Andrew!

[@issamalbarram9748]

Having a 2017 LC71, I have added 1.5inch spacers at the back and done extreme sand dunes driving and jumps and also driving on dirt and road driving. No issues at all...I dont recommend going for expensive solutions without exploring the much cheaper solutions first!!

[@gaj5701]

So happy to see a 4wd video addressing the legalities of modifying vehicles beyond what is allowed. I've been seriously flamed for commenting how 35" tyres are basically illegal on any 4wd nowadays as pretty much no engineer in Australia will approve them. I'm guessing people believe 'she'll be right' is a legitimate defence in court & I really hope no one has to find out the hard way.

[@Phil_McAvity]

Agreed

[@guadalupecovarrubias3487]

Your cruiser is awesome as always👍🏻👍🏻 from the U.S You did the right way and I'm a true believer in safety first always. Can't put a price on that. Great job and great decision 👍🏻

[@MrProject350]

My solution is to mount 80 series axles. It's not done yet, but I can not think anything but it will give even more stability. Regards Henrik Sweden

[@LiveWorkWander]

We have a pre-2006 78 Series with the old body style. The front axle is wider than the rear. It is a squirrelly beast to drive in sand and mud. Have chatted with a few Cruiser shops in the US and they’ve recommended the spacer route. Good to know a solution like the one you’ve shared exist.

[@mongo1243]

Realize this is an old thread. What years of the 75 & 78 series don't suffer from this issue?

[@greyphantome2617]

Good point Andrew, never thought about it but you're spot on - Larger offset rims and spacers will cause premature bearing damage

[@timokuusela5794]

American pick ups and suv's based on them used to have a lot wider front axle. My -79 Blazer had too, so I put 30 mm spacers to the rear axle. Tires are only 12.5x33x15, so the leverage is not too great, or the change of it. I agree with You and those local laws; spacers and too big an offset change are dangerous, but usually only in the front. The law is there to prevent anyone changing the steering geometry to a point where braking with the slippery surface under passenger side front wheel, would try to turn the steering violently towards oncoming traffic. As most spacer-users can confirm, correctly tightened spacers do not come loose. It is more common to have problems to get them loose if they have been on for couple of years. And yes, they are illegal here in Finland too, but while the annual inspection is quite thorough, I have never had any problems as there are also legal factory made wheel systems that consist of separate parts. I enjoy the way You lecture. It is like having a nice, entertaining teacher...

[@Flyanb]

Timo Kuusela Timo did you make your own? I thought about it but for $200 bucks all the way around, including studs, nuts, and anodizing I couldn’t buy materials for that.

[@johnkimani5812]

Thanks Automotive Doctor ! Information appreciated .Note i am a mechanic in Kenya [ Africa ] Asante Sana [ Thank you very much ]

[@andrewhallett-patterson9778]

Thanks for the info Andrew. But there is an easier option. If you choose a mining spec 70 series Landcruiser, they are supplied with axles and differentials which are both widened and strengthened via extensive rebracing. This process resolves both the width and track issue, and the issues of extensive flexing of the diff housing. The only option fitted to the mining spec Landcruiser I operate, are portals, just to allow more ground clearance. 👍👍

[@chriskeong5546]

Thanks for the information always wandered why Toyota had a shorter axle on the 70 series

[@wiskybiz]

Thanks for the info. Will come in handy in about 30 years when my hzj75 troopy is maybe ready for replacement.

[@gaddexrivera7099]

I love your show, Sir Andrew!

[@4fourjaw]

That looks like a pretty cool upgrade, Aussy engineering at it's finest.

[@alexanderbinz7380]

I find the longitudinal aspect of these videos really cool. You end up seeing alot of the content a few times but it gives a good bit of perspective. Can't imagine how much footage you've got from years ago waiting to put in recent videos haha

[@jamieharland9080]

I Must be lucky had wheel spacers on for 350.000 k and never had a fault and just looked at my wheel bearings after 60.000 k and totally fine ! My 2007 CAB CHASSIS cruiser is always heavy however after blowing 2 diffs i just installed the Dana 60 ultimate and tell yu what getting the snake racing 2 inch spacers of took some time ! HOWEVER YES IF YOU DON'T KNOW YOUR VEHICLE don't use spacers. I do have many mods and 226 Rear wheel killerwatts plus 2018 gearbox and bigger G turbo and lots more !! and i do believe toyota should of never been allowed to make such a out of track PROBLEM ! And the ADR should of sorted it from the start SOMEONE GOT PAID OFF ! my opinion only !

[@OverlandTT]

It's good to see your honesty Andrew regarding the troop carrier.

[@bryanbaldwin6440]

Good comments Andrew. I have a 76 series and have not found the issue a problem ...yet...I have been towing a 3T boat upto Queensland and back home to Vic (5,200 K return) for years now and its been great...plenty of power and no issue with stability even when I am travelling at 110kph (when law and road conditions permit). I have done some sand 4wd'ing through the Sunset Desert and some beach driving...with no noticeable problem. Maybe I have not done enough to make a fair judgement yet...I will be travelling through the 'Corner Country' this July, so will be able to give a better assessment then. NOTE: the old Citroen DS had a much shorter rear wheel base...I pretty sure that this was deliberate...It is supposed to create a better turning circle. So ...has anyone that has had a rear axle mod experienced any difference with their TC?

[@rickpalmer6143]

Very Interesting article. Just at the start of researching bring a 70 Series in to the UK as a Grey Import and was concerned about the Narrower rear axle track. This mod seems a cost effective solution. Do not want to buy a new 2020 Defender to replace our existing vehicles.

[@chawenhalo0089]

Fantastic highlighting of the issues with track width correction. Love when ASPW gets all techky!

[@raulbustamante8337]

They also sell it in some countries of America. I live in Venezuela and they're still being manufactured here, only the 76 and 79 series although 71 and 78 series are abundant here. In fact the 50 anniversary Land cruiser was made in Venezuela, only 300 of them. The V8 is not available here, we use the 4.0 V6 gasoline in current models

[@Fedealmanza]

Hello Andrew, in Colombia South America there is also this version of Land Cruiser 71,76, 78 and 79. Greetings from these distant lands.

[@fredericjaimes6899]

In my coutry they are still in production .. since day 1... years ago!! this is like a case of keep it simple keep it strong!

[@ItsStanlyWooddstaff]

I love my 79 but i actually found it wanting to crab walk in the soft sand tracks here in WA. Was looking at the expensive axle replacement option but will now definitely hve a look at the Tru Track. Cheers

[@jamesosullivan1545]

I tow a 79 series 2019 dual cab land cruiser - like Andrew am a big fan of land cruisers - I tow a heavy off road caravan - my old 2006 land cruiser 6 cylinder although underpowered towed the van a treat. Not so with the new land cruiser especially on road - the threes axle off sets (vehicle & van) made driving very interesting to say the least in terms of correction - especially around bends. Due to the fact that I need to maintain my GVM 3900 Load rating for the caravan with a tow all weight of 300 KG. I believe I do need the replacement wide axle kit which will set me back about 6k +. Should have gone with the 200, however I like the 79 series & in terms of safety & piece of mind may need to spend the money - bloody expensive vehicle this has turned out to be - such is life.

[@datguy2730]

Great video Andrew! I just became a Patreon supporter. I recently purchased the Australian CruiseMaster XT Suspension kit and had it shipped to Texas, USA. (Probably the 1st one in Texas) I have been wrestling with the idea of using wheel adapters (aka spacers) for the longest in order to use the same type of wheels for both my overland trailer and tow vehicle. Your video has caused me to rethink (for a third time) about using wheel adapters on my hybrid trailer project. Anyway keep up the great work Andrew and I look forward to many more insightful videos!

[@andrewpaltridge11]

Ive run wheel spacers for 200,000km without a problem with the spacer itself. Always checking the spacer nuts when ever I have a wheel off but consistently running into problems with wheel bearings and axle seals. Its time to get rid of them and the Tru Tracker kit has just been ordered.

[@deepconscious7741]

Automotive engineering where innovative fabrication and manufacturing is concerned on a stock is a specialised job that run-of-the-mill mechanics just simply cannot do. One needs a deep understanding of the mechanics & dynamics of the auto you are working on with solid experience & training so that the originality of the auto is not disturbed or made illegal yet the change is positive and brings a better driving experience. It requires dedication by the owner in terms of money and by the engineers in terms of expertise & experience. Both combine to give an ultimate, satisfactory driving pleasure.

[@Phil_McAvity]

Good video Andrew but would have been better if you’d added a price (RRP).

[@Davran2742]

I like that OZ bans spacers and wheel offsets greater than 25mm over stock; I wish we had this here, as it would stop many of the dangerous "upgraded" 4x4s on the road.

[@uliman100]

Great vid Andrew... Great to see that there is a viable solution to this... Awesome truck...

[@photohiker01]

So when you drove across australia with the bigger tyres, the axle width caused the tyres to hit the rear guards. The guards should have been modded to allow the tyres on the wider axles to clear the rear guards. Would prefer better rear with stronger axles like the ones available from Jmacx and others. Way stronger than bolting an extension on the standard diff. There is a reason it is cheaper, because it isn't as good as replacing the complete diff. Replacing parts should be as strong, or stronger than the standard parts. Multi-Drive wouldn't be stronger than standard diffs, and probably less strong. Doing trips need strong parts, not adding risks for the rear diff. We have replaced our rear diff with the Jmacx system. Hope it works for you Andrew.

[@overland-workshop]

The MultiDrive side shafts are stronger than standard. They had to be to pass ADRs. New axle GVM is 3900kgs. I felt that a full axle replacement at double the cost was unnecessary. The standard axle and diff is very strong. And as this is an overland machine, not a off-road competition truck, a Jmacx axle would be overkill in strength and its considerably higher unsprung weight is not going to do anything good for the ride.

[@photohiker01]

You are welcome for your own opinion. We looked at all the options for the rear width. Removing the rear hubs and replacing them with a wider system is bolted to the diff. Not something I would choose for outback trips. It just adds risks. For our 79, we replaced the rear with the Jmacx including swapping to coil suspension which makes the unsprung weight way better than leaf springs. Stronger diff and axles. The Jmacx system doesn't increase the rear weight and moves weight from the unsprung rear. Compare the cost of the 70 series and complete the improvement of the vehicle, the rear axle system is only part of the cost. This is for improving the vehicle, not for off-road competition. Your vehicle has been spent for a lot of improvements but gone cheap to widen the rear. Also, didn't fix the body to prevent the tyres hitting the mudguards. Good luck, Cheers.

[@tikkabrno]

​@@photohiker01making this decision now. Waiting for a 76 wagon. How do i open up the rear guards?

[@WesternAustraliaNowAndThen]

The question has to be, since the solution is relatively simple, why hasn't Toyota done it themselves?

[@bencook5166]

Because the accountants won't let them spend the money to build a new rear axle. I've read an interview with the chief engineer who has spent the last 20 years just working on the 70 series!

[@benjaminprince6424]

All comes down to what the cost center allows money to be spent on, I am an electrician and fitter mechanic for a large company and see the same type of short cuts to make budget.

[@donkinzett3961]

Toyota to lazy and don't want to spend the money

[@silverbackanimal7215]

For there last big 2030 models before everything goes electric ⚡️

[@nguont]

Western Australia Now and Then to put simply, they don’t give a fu..k. . Because they still sell. People who want them will deal with it either correcting like Andrew did or just leave as is and people who don’t want them would never want them either way.

[@ranteraptorkiller]

great... your upgrade making the car more stable and powerful in offroad road.

[@191941pilot]

Nice one Andrew, not sure if the haters will find anything to complain about, other than you don't always agree with them. I am a Geelong supporter in the AFL, I don't have to like any of the other teams in the competition, but I do need to respect them and support their right to their own existence, or other wise there would not be any teams to compete against. Watching Geelong play Geelong would be boring.I enjoy what you do, where you go and how you go about it. Even though you live on the other side of the continent, drive a different type of vehicle and low and behold a different brand of of vehicle to me. I hate to admit this, but I now do a few things differently having seen how you go about your travels. I thank you for the opportunity to learn from your experience's.

[@johnron331]

Go Cats

[@nnoddy8161]

I am bewildered that in 2018 vehicles are being produced with non matching wheel tracks. It is a complete joke and insult by Toyota that a customer who has just forked out almost $80k (AUD) then needs to spend another $5-$10k to rectify this and other defects (poor GVM). It certainly makes a late model 2nd hand Defender look like a bargin with coils all round, bigger GVM, constant 4WD and....aircon as standard!!!

[@darcybowyer5743]

Hit the nail on the head mate, exact reason I bought a Tdi Defender. Why fork out the cash when the Land Rover has full coil suspension, matching tracks and at most needs a rear locker. All for peanuts in costs compared to a 70 series

[@sanatandharma4435]

Yep! And people moan about Landrover!

[@moabman6803]

A multitude of manufacturers build vehicles with a narrower rear track width. They have done so for years. I believe even Baja trophy trucks are engineered with narrower rear track widths. I believe it is done for quicker directional changes offroad.

[@DARANGULAFILM]

This is an eminently sensible engineering solution. Time well tell as to the slightly greater leverage the wheel loads have over the span of the whole axle assembly. What's the difference between a sixpence and five cents? The commentator has analysed it all well, putting the cost benefit down to a matter of personal preference. On established offroad tracks, there may be no more than a subtle improvement felt. One advantage I can see would be in driving over new ground. Stakes that the front tyres miss might be found by a rear tyre. A Ford F-Series four wheel drive on the Canning Stock Route run in a convoy in the late 70's ran out of tyres due to stakes by the time it was halfway south. Tyres had to be flown in. It's wider stance found stakes that narrower tracked vehicles had not already harvested. Early Toyota Landcruiser adopters discovered the same problem when first running on old station bushtracks established by Landrovers. In sand or claggy mud, there will be less rolling resistance when the wider rear axle's tyres are tracking directly behind the front wheels and not having to crush the inner edges of the front wheel trenches in. The rear wheels will also not be climbing the inner edges alternately and forcing the driver into more steering correction and fatigue.

[@israels.s.7755]

as usual, very thorough and well-worded insight. Thanks

[@Cooliemasteroz]

Very well explained down to earth practical advice.

[@Arda86ca]

I just went with 35mm spacers . Yeah it is not totally same with fronts but it is way less difference and the wheel still sits on the hub.

[@robertlynn8802]

Some older Chevrolet full size trucks had the same issue. It was fine off road but not good in following tracks in the snow.

[@consaka1]

My dad has a '79 stretch ford van with this problem. And it is a problem on road. It's not too terrible on perfectly flat pavement but the handling goes down the toilet on a road with any wear grooves. The thing is so twitchy it is unbelievable.

[@vinniet2925]

This may sound stupid but can you solve the rear track "problem" by running wider rear tires? Like, 235 front 265 rear.

[@svenderfoldy7659]

Thank you... Your sharing of knowledge is truely appreciated

[@joevanvalkenburg]

In USA the Spicer- Dana axels are skinnier in the Rear so they Turn better driving in the snow at high speeds.

[@T1M083]

Hi, Andrew, the 70 series is also available in New Zealand. just in case anyone happens to ask. Keep up the vids very informative

[@overland-workshop]

Correct. Hence the New Zealand title.

[@carlhalliburton2052]

Glad you added that, unlike some people may think New Zealand is not part of Australia.

[@drewbibby3294]

Haha, wasn't there when I viewed it!

[@T1M083]

Drew Bibby no neither thats why i added that lol

[@overland-workshop]

Can't add titles after a video is uploaded. You probably remember this scene from a previous video, when there was no title.

[@hughbatchelor8599]

So the combination of the wider rear axle AND the wider tyres is why you had tyre contact with the body during your trans Aussie trip. With the standard axle the wider tyre wouldn't have done that. I shall be advising a friend of mine to ditch his spacers too!!!

[@lukeb2526]

Great mod, a disgrace that Toyota puts diff on the market

[@charlesmbugua8475]

Hi, am from Kenya and your video was very informative. Here in east Africa we mainly use the land cruisers for tourism where we modify them to 8 seaters and mainly use them on road and off road. I recently bought a 75 and had to upgrade the front to a 79 suspension but am not sure if to modify the back, i am very interested in your advice

[@Wiegman4x4Terschelling]

I was not aware of this, funny to hear. I'm going to check if the 1999+ Hzj74 has the same.

[@overland-workshop]

It does not. The redesign of the front end to fit the V8 marks the wider front axle - around 2008.

[@googleuser1456]

I got 50mm -2" spacers on all 4 on my truck for stability and looks.cost$100 total. In America it's legal and nobody cares. People put -44 offset wheels here on trucks for wide track and looks great, it's very common

[@harveysmith100]

The 70 series sells in such low numbers Toyota don't want to spend too much in new tooling but come on Toyota, surely you could fix this with a new wider rear axle. You could make a fortune selling it as a retro fit. Brilliant solution by the guys in Australia. I hope someone at Toyota Australia gets to see this and passes it on to HQ

[@chrisrippon6176]

the landcruiser 70 is probably the most popular 4x4 in Australia, its like a 6-8 month wait to get one

[@harveysmith100]

Sorry, I meant to say such low numbers world wide. Australia is it's biggest marked. It is a low volume car in terms of cost for new tooling.

[@radod6147]

Sorry Chris, that is not true, I've just bought one, took one month, delivery next week in Sydney, can't wait to pick it up and I correct the axle prior rego with dealer

[@bencook5166]

So many inaccuracies in these comments!!! Firstly the 70 series is selling like hot cakes, they are currently producing 10,000 per month, the most they have ever produced! And that's just in the factories in Japan! They also have factories in Kenya, and Portugal producing them! Secondly Australia isn't the biggest market in the world! It's the second biggest, Saudi is the biggest market! And finally Toyota are well aware of how unhappy customers are about the track difference and the chief engineer who has spent the last 20 years just working on the 70 series wanted to do something about it but his bosses told him no, the 70 is selling well, there is no need to spend money on that!

[@maverick2242]

Harvey Smith so the cost of making a new rear axle by a large company is not worth it, yet a company like Andrew is using can justify it as can Jmacx, portals etc can justify it, that makes no sense. Toyota justified the cost to widen the front and develop and whole new engine. I think most miss the point of what the Landcrusier series is actually intended for in Toyotas minds as with most 4wds they are not built as a purpose built overlander, the 79 is essentially a farm truck, the troopy is a work vehicle for workers, hence the troopy style seats in the rear and its name, the 76 is the bosses or mines execs vechicle, most prob have a 200 series now, also most std 4wd are mall crawlers in cities Hiluxs Rangers etc, why they are becoming more and more upmarket wanna be wagons for weekend tarmac warriors every year, thats where manafactures are focusing and where sales are. I love the 70 series myslef, had a 79single cab and many Hilluxs, for me I hate the modern flashy stuff in 4wds. The fact is for overlanding you need to modify any vehicle, it just comes down to what you need. Overlanding could change focus of some companies but Euro emissions laws probably are weighing against that investment currently, Toyota has no problem selling these vehicles in current markets its available even though they are over priced, but they also have ridiculous resale value as well. Id go Jmacx myself and do it properly and be done with it, another thing to consider is a 70 series is an investment for longer term, unlike a Hilux's or Ranger you don't buy and sell these each year or every few years for the latest one, you invest in it, thats a benefit, both in parts available and little changes is why it holds value, why it is so loved, thats also why they are good to modify. Also buy a good second hand one and modify that save some money on a new one by upgrading the rear axle, alternator with a sealed PDP unit, lift etc Honestly Id rather have a Jmacx than have Toyota make a new rear, charge more for the new price of the 70s in the future for a lesser standard quality axle anyway. just my pov.

[@tonyanderson7854]

Another great video thanks Now I have to see why someone fitted 50mm spacers on my landrover I’m hoping it was to correct the incorrect o’set wheels back to centre :-(

[@overland-workshop]

Very funny Tony :-) Keep it coming!

[@carlossiri7519]

Thanks for this video, do you know if the problem was fixed for the new 70’s series (2022-2024)?

[@zooltpool8204]

Is this the reason why your wide tyres scrub now? I know it wouldn't be a prob with a tray back but the wheel arches may need correcting as well to suit?

[@overland-workshop]

Added width plus wider tyres means I now have a mis-match. but I prefer narrower tyres anyway, so I'll sort it out with that.

[@zooltpool8204]

4xoverland yeah cool, hopefully 255s will do the job for you as you probably already know!! Cheers mate.

[@keithgaming7027]

With regards to spacers, and I understand they are illegal in AU but are legal in the US, it really comes down to how much of a spacer you use. I use 1.5" which is about 38MM. Now I haven't loaded my vehicle down as much as I could, but it's easy to check if they are coming loose even with the tire and rim still mounted. Now that being said would I rather have wider axles? Yes I would and with my next build I'll probably do that. Could I also correct the issue by going back to stock width, while maintain upgraded height, tires? Yes. But spacers are not that dangerous. The biggest failure point with spacers is people over tightening the lug nuts which happens with or without spacers. I torque mine to spec with locktite and they've never come loose in 4 years of using them. Again though understand I agree that replacing axles is the far better way to go especially on Jeeps which have crappy axles to begin with.

[@marufali6205]

haha I have still got my 1985 bj75 series landcruiser with a 3b haha and it does better job than the new v8diesel but I still love my td42 nissan safari 💪

[@Zundfolge]

I'd have to wonder if there isn't a fuel economy advantage to doing this modification if you do a lot of long distance driving in sand, since your rear wheels are aligned with the front wheels and thus not having to cut their own partial path through the sand.

[@mozartheart2958]

I think measuring performance (statically speaking) between a modified vehicle and a non modified one, would better highlight if it worth it or not. Personally, I think it does not worth it, should that be the case, Toyota would have done it long time ago (Did someone asked Toyota's Engineers bout it?). It also might creates a mismatch situation, which might open a window for new problems. Great video as usual, thanks.

[@brucekendall52]

Thks for the info.Regards from JHB.

[@rjl110919581]

THANK YOU FOR DETAIL VIDEO AS POINT OUT RIGHT WAY DO THIS WITH AXES ON THE 70- SERIES

[@denisvincent4410]

Great video Andrew thank you

[@karlsheedy8323]

Great insights thank you!

[@NateGfit]

great video thanks mate!

[@royvallance7134]

Hello Andrew Choice Troopy Glad to have watched your segment regarding the untouched rear tracking by Toyota 70s Very satisfied with the Multi track approach and to hear your theory behind the application was very reasonable. A wife or similar would beg to differ However i am keen as mustard to feel the difference whilst towing the standard 1200kg caravan and tray carrying a purpose built tradie work toolbox of around 600kg continuously on my 79 series ute as i work an average of 400km each way from home weekly hence the caravan accommodation (keeps me away from pubs and hangovers ) Any chance of a rough ballpark figure for the whole works undertaken by Multi track ? very curious Regards Roy

[@southafricaawakening6666]

Are there no other models that use a wider axle that would match what is needed with the 79?

[@janpur1417]

You are increasing the distance between the wheel bearing and the leaf spring. Isn't this going to cause heavy strain on the 4 bolts holding that extension? Toyota made that shorter to prevent excessive strain at the axle hosing at the bolts? Adding a spacer is going to act like a negative offset similar to running a negative offset wheel with the exception of two parts to achieve the negative off set.

[@nnoddy8161]

When do we get talking about GVM upgrades and the legalities of being over weight? What is the weight of the Troopie now?

[@Stoic-of-Rome]

Amazed they carve away at the shaft with a reciprocating saw!! They should make up a jig and use a grinder/cutter. Great topic and solution to a bizarre oversight by a major and excellent car company like Toyota

[@overland-workshop]

Its easier and faster with a saw when the axle is mounted on a vehicle.

[@MrFastFarmer]

What the? You are telling me that the axle isn't hardened...

[@Buckfight1]

If you look on their website, they have a photo of a grinder doing the same job!! Maybe someone had borrowed it......

[@Buckfight1]

Here is the link for their own installation video kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqjEo5-hrKejeKs

[@captainjtrain8629]

Thanks Andrew informative as always. Toyota refuse to update any issues because they know they can take the piss and Ozzie's will just keep buying. Axle issue no torque (430nM for a v8 vs Jeeps Italian v6 turbo 570 nM), the price tag, fuel consumption, poor breaking performance, terrible hand break, no front locker unless you upgrade to GXL. Used to have 76 but now have no respect. For the Toyota brand. They are a disgrace.

[@tonypaine4958]

Andrew great video mate .

[@shaunozs1ra92]

Ar 4:48 I see you have a rim only on the back. Is there a specific reason for this or were you about to have a new tyre fitted?

[@jasonhowe1697]

if you are going to waste money on porting the axle you might aswell replace the axle to the correct length whether you use axle porting or an offset spacer you are effectively doing the same thing however you are extending it via porting the axle where the offset puts strain on the bearing hub.. though portal axling the rears is no more safer than using a a spacer as you are just moving the failure point of the of the portal axle the only true way to correct the rear axle is replace it with the same axle length.. axle porting might comply with manufacturing standards set by Toyota and mitigates the rear tracking issue with either option however it is not a guarantee that either option will not fail over time.. however the only true way to correct the tracking floor within any land cruiser or any other brand of 4x4 is to replace the rear axle with the appropriate width axle to match the front axle.. Whilst portal axling and spacers may be a bandaid solution to correct the tracking issue it doesn't truly fix it just moves where the failure point happen

[@drboyton1]

Are you talking about portal axles? Because they are completely different from what is being shown here.

[@jasonhowe1697]

what is being shown here is an adaption on portal axle design in extension Ben however in the long term use it be no different to using spacers as you are moving the spacer option to the axle itself no matter what the company is calling the said product it is an adaption of what has come before. as such either option can be dangerous if it fails and as I said before the only true way to correct the tracking issue is to replace the axle itself with the correct width.. this option being shown here and spacers in general application are a cheaper band aid solution to correct the tracking problem however the only way to truly correct tracking issue is to replace the rear axle as what Andrew discussing here and showing here is a mitigation step where you don't have to replace the rear axle however this also creates a failure point whether you except the issues or not for either install method.. in the discussion andrew is speaking about...

[@chrisrippon6176]

are you an engineer

[@drboyton1]

Nope. Now I'm sure you don't know what you're talking about. Portal axles are entirely different. A portal axle set up uses gearing to relocate the axle at a lower point (and by default, because of the width of the portal housing, at a wider track). The solution shown here by Andrew is locating the point that the bearings sit at a wider track. Therefore the bearing hub is not subjected to extra stress and is completely different from using spacers.

[@overland-workshop]

As far as my use for this vehicle portals would be overkill. The added clearance is nice but not necessary. Given the added complications that go with it, its not something I would consider, even if were given to me.

[@AllThatJazz19]

Andrew any fix for the squeaky rear leaf springs? I wonder why Toyota didn't fix the rear axle thingy in the first place and switched over to coils at the rear.

[@gerhardpetersen]

Another issue with the Toyota debacle is the width between the springs. As you increase the track without increasing the width between the springs, the leverage increases, causing more spring deflection for the same load. Toyota should never have been granted ADR on this horrible issue - period. The price they get for these vehicles would easily cover the tooling cost to widen the rear chassis and make them safe.

[@jayfrost7824]

Does that explains why his troops looked like it was overloaded on the Trans Australia trip, or was it because someone brought to much junk along?

[@geoffnepo]

Did the Toyota engineers really forget to update the rear axle ? Or the effect is really negligible so not worth the modification ?? Probably would help if you add an actual impact engineering study for shorter axle to support your subjective impressions

[@Trident_Euclid]

You are questioning a car the hasn't been changed that much in a very very long time ago.

[@christieelizabeth3752]

that’s what motoring journalists do, subjective opinions

[@BoneTactical]

My 2017 lc79 has a 1hz, so is the front axle still wider?

[@nnoddy8161]

Nope. Only the V8.

[@notrut]

After widening the front axle, did Toyota continue to use the same old steering geometry for the Ackerman Angle? If so, it would probably be out of alignment ... so a widened rear axle modification would put things back to original turning circle. (?)

[@SuperP00man]

Running a wheel with a wider offset does not wear out bearings if you keep the diff oil fresh and dont over load the rig with weight. I have had offset wheels on my Jeep Wrangler for over180,000 miles and have had zero issues. Plus I have the original ball joints in it. Maintenance is number one.

[@overland-workshop]

The Land Cruiser wheel bearing do not use the diff oil. They use grease. Not the same design as the Jeep. Jeeps have never been particularly good load carriers, and the comparatively small wheel bearings are one reason. Bearing wear is accelerated by pure physics. More weight on one of the two roller bearings will increase wear on that side. Maintenance is number one, especially in these conditions.

[@SuperP00man]

Yes earlier Jeeps are not really designed for super heavy loads. The newer Jeeps like the JK and JL can handle heavy loads. They come with a beefed up Dana 44 axle. Bigger axle tubes as well as bearings. The Dana 44 that comes in the Jeep is a very good axle and is actually a half ton axle. So it is not really a light weight axle and can handle heavy loads. I also do agree that an offset wheel does wear out the bearings faster but at what rate or mileage? Let’s look at it this way. Say that axle bearings last 200,000 miles with a proper set of wheels and only 180,000 miles with an improper offset wheel. In the scheme of things 20,000 miles is not a big deal and well worth having a wheel with an improper offset to get the tracking you desire. And yes maintenance is number one!

[@commonsense-grs]

The more i watch your videos on this subject, the more wild I get with Toyota. This pathetic rear track issue is ridiculous and I feel Toyota need to force to correct this major design fault. The money they are charging for these cars is close to scam level and I know you love them Andrew and you are willing to fix them, and when fully modified they are great, but lot people just don't have the money to fix them. I own a Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 diesel and i cop heaps from Toyota owners how bad they are, well, they just don't have these sorts of design problems and if they did, the amount of crap I would have put up with would be way over the top. It's been the most reliable car I have ever had, bar one drive shaft bearing failure. People need to tell Toyota before they will buy this over priced car, no I want say the word I'm thinking of, they need address a number of issue on the 70 series or just stop buying them, I just can't believe people buy these cars as tow vehicles, so many better ones for less money, Sorry Andrew for the rant, this will be the last time i will comment on this subject as I think i have pissed off many 70 owners.

[@commonsense-grs]

@@truthseeker3536 I agree 100%, but if the people buying these cars could put some pressure on Toyota to fix some of these faults, but while they are buying them, why should they.

[@bathgrub8751]

More money than sense? Popularity contest? I had an 80 series a few years ago now. Best "back to basics" 4wd I ever owned. But have a 2015 Grand Cherokee Overland 5.7L Hemi now, because I can buy 3 for the price of a 200 series. And the Jeep has more creature comforts. Does depend what you use the vehicle for, and I guess each to their own, hahaha.

[@commonsense-grs]

@@bathgrub8751 I agree 100% the 80 series is properly the best all round LC Put a decent set of wheels and tyres, 2 or 4" lift kit, good quality coils and shocks, front and rear lockers and they will go anywhere. Also can't go past the Jeep Grand Cherokee for value, comfort, driving dynamics, off roading and towing, another great all rounder as well.

[@dannyrexknight]

It honestly staggers me that on such an expensive vehicle they have not corrected the track. I understand brand loyalty however at some point when such significant design flaws exist and Toyota can not be bothered to upgrade a vehicle this should be reflected in the price.

[@husq2100]

There are more reasons to why spacers and certain offset rims are illegal in Australia. The concern is not only the leverage placed on the bearings (which may be a little over stated here) but also the extra load on the wheel studs AND it changes the scrub radius on front ends. Now while some vehicles this may not be a issue on in the real world, the powers that be can’t be expected to measure and rate each and every vehicle and variant. I just wish they would allow some more freedom under what can be engineered if done so with approved people and good practice.

[@offroadandfun]

Thank you, again a fantastic Video. Thamps up

[@ld8800]

We also have those in Venezuela and some countries of South America

[@akaroamale475]

If we are talking about tracking and stability, who would choose thin tyres over wide tyres? Basic maths will tell anyone that a wide service area on an unstable substance, like sand, will give one traction over a smaller service area, yet you chose a thinner tyre.

[@nathancormack9922]

I am aware of the issue but i tow heavy loads with a 79 and with a 200 but i am not at a point where i would bother fixing it. I just am used to the way they handle it