How Much Does it Really Cost to Build a Land Cruiser? Not Cheap!

[@yuzale]

The fact that you shared the final price made me want to watch the whole thing.

[@tedsubol9398]

Very impressive 😊👍🏻i'm a toyota guy!

[@TheMadMonkey3]

Exactly

[@Nikx450]

True

[@mark2073]

Yeah that was cool. I'll watch it. But don't forget how much time he spent. My time is money. If it takes me a year of equivalent full time work to restore it then add in my salary...

[@jameslafond9439]

​@@mark2073 Elle

[@JeriDro]

I wish all youtubers were like this guy, straight to the point no bs no annoying voice no extra details no goofiness. great job guy

[@au2262]

why do youtube mechanics have to be so goofy

[@DavidMartinez-ot4fe]

Answering the cost in the first minute…. My man, liked and subscribed

[@RM_Garage]

I edit videos how I would want to watch them! Thanks!

[@angelmvniz]

$5k truck + $15k to rebuild is way better than buying a todays $35k+ truck that’s only guaranteed 5 year life. Now you have a well done Land Cruiser that’ll last another 30 years brother. Nice job!

[@RM_Garage]

Exactly!

[@JacopoSkydweller]

Unless you buy a bone-ass stock, 2 WD basic truck or a Maverick or something, it's going to be a hell of a lot closer to 50-80k. To get something close ish to as capable to a good condition FJ80 with lockers is going to be 60k+.

[@Noold]

30k rebuild if he paid someone else to do it.

[@WillyK51]

Absolutely agree. If you get one today, maybe you still don't need a new engine. But In my neck of the woods 5 Spt Std Trannies are the most. That is the most expensive upgrade I would do in the USA. He,He and what would be the today $35K truck comparable to a FJ ?God will strike you if mention a 75K Jeep

[@jeromereyes584]

Dang. 15k for the way your LC sits in current day doesn’t account for labor and know how. For plebs like me, there is no way I’m disassembling an entire engine block and rebuilding it on my own. Awesome video, bro!

[@cesar-lf1jw]

I know right I wish I knew how to rebuild an engine but it’s better to pay for professionals to do it instead of making an expensive mistake lol

[@mike_svoeuy116]

My parents gave me their 93 Landcruiser. It’s got 140k original miles and is triple locked. Can’t wait to get on the road.

[@WillyK51]

You do not have to spend 50K to take it out on the road. I still daily drive my FJ60 on and off road. In my neck of the woods most FJ80 are Std 5 Spd Tranny. That would be my most expensive upgrade over the Auto. Std Rims and 33 Tyres next. And dont forget a Dual Battery and a 12V fridge/Frezzer, Never enough ice for Beer👍

[@Mrcurnal]

Bro I have triple locked 94 1hdft

[@Kevin-sr8yx]

Land Rover charisma, Jeep ability, Toyota reliability. These are the best.

[@thiaguinhooitodois2211]

Look boys and girls, a video where someone gets straight to the point. Good job 👍

[@adams2984]

I have a 1988 Fj62. I’ve had her for 13 years now. I used to keep a running total of all the repairs, and, or upgrades. I stopped years ago. Keeping her running may be irrational to many, but she’s my baby. I get it, I really do. Enjoy your channel.

[@WillyK51]

Mine is a 84 FJ60 have it for over 30 yrs, but it's been cheap to run. Body is awfull, but running gear tip top. Thats were my money goes. Turn key reliable and go

[@actionheroleads]

Welcome to the club! This thing is a rare specimen now. Less and less on the road every day. Thanks for bringing this one back to life.

[@CREATINELUSTER]

I don't even give a crap about land cruisers at all. I just find your videos very direct, entertaining and genuine, which is more than enough to keep me watching. Thank you!

[@nicholasrichardson4285]

Thanks for starting out with final amount, that hooked me to watch the entire thing. So many youtubers mislead titles or don't really deliver on what they advertise. Great work and thanks for sharing!

[@RM_Garage]

Yep! No clickbait here

[@jdcooper9]

I like the transparency, the final price preamble, and the work you've put into the project. I watched the whole thing and subbed.

[@RM_Garage]

thanks!

[@cordcd7]

I appreciate you sharing these prices with us. Especially the machine shop price. I know it's different everywhere, but having even an idea of the cost for someone who has no experience with machine shops, is helpful.

[@DanielRedgrave]

Thank you! I love these 80 series, but i was having my doubts due to all the horror stories of dozens of thousands of dollars needed to just get them working, but you actually sharing the break down of the costs and. The things you did, made me realize it's actually within my budget with room to spare! I'm mechanically inclined, but new to project cars, so I was having a hard time figuring out a realistic cost for this, and it was the only thing holding me back. Here's hoping I find one at a reasonable price!

[@skaboom64]

Spend the money and get one already sorted. Preventative maintenance and baselining alone will be thousands. I can’t even imagine how much a shop would charge buying one for 5k and needing to do all this

[@Shakshuka69]

Buy one that had the head gasket done by a reputable shop or count on doing it yourself. Don't waste money on low mileage cars as they will all need a top end rebuild regardless

[@DanielRedgrave]

@@skaboom64 I have the space in my garage and as long as I have a service manual, I can sort almost anything myself, the ones already sorted out in my area are north of 30k and rust free, low miles, good service history and in need of head gasket and big maintenance jobs easily 4k, it would even be cheaper to put a 1uz in one of those than buying a sorted one.

[@logicgates7732]

Literally just did this same thing to a 22re. It was pandoras box. Once I got the gunk off I realized how neglected it was, pulled the timing chain cover and it was all over from there. Cost me a similar amount. Its tough to save money on things when your under time restrictions too.

[@thebird483]

I'm honestly impressed by how low that final price is, considering how insane these 80 series have gotten and nice it currently is. Awesome build!

[@JuanLopez-oz9kh]

The great thing is that it still worth every penny!

[@RM_Garage]

Agree!

[@Bannedone3ice]

@@RM_Garagehow much would you get if you sell it today

[@1malikalik]

The fact that you got straight to the point and showed the receipt EASILY EARNED you my SUBSCRIPTION and my utmost respect. You sir, are a noble man. A dying breed of men. Honesty, Transparency and integrity goes a long waaaaays with me. Much love and Respect. Best of luck and hope to see more great content from your channel. This the best and most satisfying video i have watched in a long time. You are equally soft to the ear and your narration is second only to Morgan Freeman. Lastly, PLEASE WRITE THIS IN YOUR HEART: Not if, but when you get endorsed by some Big Auto Maker or Parts Group please do not compromise your integrity and sell your soul for the mighty $$$$$. Stick to your humble roots i.e honesty, Transparency and integrity and loyalty to your subscribers and fan. Cheers.

[@isa_4funner]

Good job! It is given when you buy these high mileage Toyota's, you must do all the dirty work to be satisfied! Some people might not like the idea of tearing down an engine. But if you passion these things. The rewards are all worth it at the end!

[@RM_Garage]

Exactly. It’s fun to build the engine. I enjoy this kind of thing - it’s not for everyone.

[@dmytro-skh]

wow, 41sec and you share the most important information, respect!)

[@QnA22]

I bought a LC200 for 13k Euro. 124.000 km with a petrol 1GR-FE engine. I spent 7k to get it ready to hit the road, that is, in gear. Car itself had 0 issues, but i changed all the fluids to make sure. It's now a season and 20. 000 something kilometers on and still 0 issues, but a whole lot of fun later. Not regretting the investment.

[@kevinforrest7275]

One of the best videos I have watched - appreciate your common sense approach to your content. Well done !

[@DukeFame88]

Nice info. I bought a 93 landcruiser, triple locked with 330k miles back in 2021 for $3800. I use it on the beach for surf fishing here in MD. After I bought it, I painted white, added 33 inch tires, replaced battery, and its been running great. I've put about 4000 miles on it and no major issues. I had to replace a throttle cable last month and the AC just stopped working . The previous owner was a gear head and did a lot of engine repair so I consider myself very lucky. I might sell here in MD later next year.

[@hickboyjusthick698]

You are seriously the luckiest person on Earth. Triple locked are pretty rare and when you find them they usually cost, your first born child.

[@zerochance8581]

It’s a great Monday evening turning off the news and turning on RM Garage. Great video.

[@RM_Garage]

As a small creator this made my night! Thanks!

[@nickmolloy9563]

You only get the mirror shake if the mirrors are aftermarket or damaged. The OEM’s are stable. You’ve got the hard stuff done. Now it all fun. Great vid. Good luck with the touring.

[@joseperez-cl8jk]

It’s just like watching the 4Runner videos a old fan just checking in on you. I know you’re not finished with this just yet. Thank you for all the videos over the years. My heart is still 4Runner I am almost ready to send mine out to get overhauled everything inside and out front to back with a custom rear lid that can handle a roof top tent with interior access that’s my dream I figured after watching a lot of videos on rebuilding rigs it’s going to cost a few bucks but I’m the end a vintage Toyota is going to be on the road for the rest of my life it’s going to cost way less than a new off road vehicle

[@Fgate88]

Just bought a 93 Land Cruiser, this is a big help and looking forward to it! I have a few additional costs on mine due to a front end collision (Thankfully no frame/engine damage).

[@lilaznpandabear91]

I like and appreciate how you itemize everything. Very helpful to less informed people like myself.

[@1995Kakashi]

the beast is never satiated... Haven't done too much research into the low range gearing but good to see the price range isnt too crazy. Throwing on a 6 inch lift to get 3 inches after adding weight is super creative. I'm running 2.5 inch lift heavies but flex is gated by the length of the shocks. The solution you chose sounds pretty promising! Good stuff

[@LostandFoundTravel]

@1995Kakashi 11 days ago the beast is never satiated - too true

[@ElReySupr3me]

If your keeping this rig then it is surely well worth the piece of mind! Beautiful rebuild man! I dont even own an 80 series 😅.

[@scottbartlett4853]

I love your approach to full free info! I'm almost done with my 1UZ swap into an Isuzu VehiCross. I've spent so much money and time. Don't regret a bit of it. Even the mistakes.

[@RM_Garage]

That’s a sick build!

[@cesar-lf1jw]

I have a question. I have a 90 isuzu pup how come the cluster is so damn expensive ?!?!

[@kateotoole6690]

Best 4WD Ever Built!

[@Grnbarf]

Better than anything new and way cooler. Worth every penny and more. Love my 80 series!

[@Contest4Freedom]

Fantastic work!

[@riceman20]

I had the Milestar Patgona on my tacoma for 40k miles. Loved them, as long as they were aired up to 36psi.

[@poppasunny]

Remember this.... buying one thats "new" or "done" isn't any cheaper. You just get it all at once and pay for it over years. Appreciate the info and cool rig

[@vanillathunder988]

Well done video. Including the cost breakdowns was a good idea. Most people won't have your impressive skills. I'm a fan of keeping them stock, so don't care for the wheel swap and huge tires.

[@RonaldChapman-jg5xu]

I love my 97, 80 series, they do get expensive at times. Good job man! They are great rigs.

[@TJackSurvival]

Man, I got a $500 Isuzu trooper and built it specifically because I could build the whole thing for less than it would have cost me to buy a land cruiser and start a build. I've not seen any for less than 20K just to get the base vehicle. I am probably 10-12K into my build and it's lifted, locked front and rear, new tires, rims, bed linered bumper, winch, air compressor, new stereo, speakers, ham radio, lights, everything including rebuilding the upper part of the engine, new heater core hoses, spark plugs all oils, and all that. This stuff is crazy expensive, and there's no way for the average person to pull it off unless they can get an old hooptie and really mechanic alone. Great video. Gave me flash backs and PTSD. LOL

[@RM_Garage]

I don't blame you. There are a lot of other capable vehicles that people turn a blind eye to, and it's refreshing to hear of someone taking a different approach. I bet that Trooper does well.

[@dwiyual]

Ive got a1991 I'm still wotking on. Im glad to see the progress you've made becuase i can relate.

[@xJAWAx]

I feel like all the work was well worth it. Nothing wasted, i think its gonna be super reliable.

[@clv_23]

Awesome video. I have a 96 lx450 which I also bought for $5k… I’m about $15k in it with non regrets. Regearing and adding lockers was the biggest expense.

[@cameron11]

What lockers did you choose to put in? And what gears in where?

[@projectxdrift63]

it has come a long way in 1 year! keep it coming !

[@markw999]

"Toyota" and "Cheap" have always been mutually exclusive terms. Solid 10%-15%+ differential on parts vs. any other car maker. Having said that, awesome products generally, so you do you. Toyota has plenty of loyal customers for a reason.

[@wesharris6868]

that engine looked beautiful when it went back in

[@birben666]

Awesome job ! Video is awesome, thanks !

[@mikeboone4425]

I'm sighn in now I'll go back and watch it all great through job . Happy Trailing young man.

[@travistiffany5585]

I appreciate you cutting to the chase right away. Peeked my curiosity on how you arrived at that number, and I watched the entire video.

[@tee_gsf]

I also got my 97 land cruiser for about $5k, it had 150k miles. I fixed it up, did baseline, threw a couple pretty mods on it, and it was my daily driver for about 2 years. Sold it for 17k. Wish I vlogged me building up the car.

[@rickzapf9552]

Great job Rick! It’s been fun watching you transform the beast.

[@RM_Garage]

Thanks Rick! You'll have to come see it one of these days out here in Idaho!

[@sergiolozano6205]

@@RM_Garage could you do a video on how you installed the digital coolant gauge?

[@RM_Garage]

@@sergiolozano6205 I have one! Check it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4GueYNmpd2frpY

[@ulyssesvazquez387]

this is a great rebuild. since you did most of the work yourself, a non-DYI person will pay north of another 25k for this all this work.

[@RM_Garage]

thanks!

[@officialmallcrawler]

I watched the entire video even after you told the price so early and for that I will be subscribing.

[@RM_Garage]

Thanks!

[@stephenwest798]

Proof positive the toys are just like every other vehicle or should I say worse than some and better than others, but not necessarily anything special. And yep, you bought the right spacers, I need a set for my 07 Rams winter wheel and tire setup.

[@brando2118]

really impressive work!

[@jonathanmarte4251]

When I saw you say the price in the beginning right away hit the subscribed button and continue to enjoy the whole video lol

[@BlueLineOverland]

I'm in mine about 30k right now. Its addicting, but I love her so much lol 1994 80

[@RM_Garage]

Nice! What other vehicle would have the capability of your 80 for 30k? Not many!

[@BlueLineOverland]

@@RM_Garage definitely not a jeep 😏😉 love the channel!!! Get so much info!!! Keep it up. You're a blessing to the 80 community!

[@amaurisramos4271]

I Love this video and Landcrusier's Restoration.

[@jeremyguillory8304]

I own a 96 LX450 Base Truck cost was $15k Included mods are 4” lift (needed new shocks), new KM2s (35s), ARB front bumper, 15k lb winch, 4 nice off-road lights (can’t remember the brand), roof rack, hood rack, high lift jack, upgraded axils, front and rear Yukon air lockers. Upgrades/maintenance after purchase: Full hose replacement, new steering box, new power steering pump, blue fan clutch mod, scan gauge, marlin rock crawler steering upgrade, white knuckle rock sliders, new seal kit for the birfield joints, new ABS module, replaced lift kit, new break master cylinder and full set of new breaks (disks and calipers), upgraded steel hose break lines Current total investment is around $25k. Truck has 261k miles. It’s a true trail truck and I use it.

[@sonamtobgay370]

Now this is a good detailed video. Awesome

[@RM_Garage]

Thanks!

[@WunKai]

Now I am interested in getting and renovating a 80❤

[@chrisridebike8]

This was the first video I watched of yours. And then I ended up watching all the build vids. Great stuff! Sub’d.

[@RM_Garage]

Sick! Thank you!

[@itgeltbayan]

just found your channel. You should make a playlist for this project. I'd watch the whole list of videos... lol

[@RM_Garage]

You’re in luck. Check the channel! There is a playlist. It might be linked in this video description too.

[@charmedbycharlie]

It's crazy how different things can cost country to country, here in Australia just about every second guy has a modded land cruiser, and (generally) they arnt that expensive, and usually what you can get goes further.

[@yuliangolodnykh7330]

Your are killing it with the land cruiser content! I also have a 93 80 series that ive been wrenching on regularly the last two years. I am in around 15k on my build 😅. Probably another 10k to get it in tip top shape.

[@PharaohFluidity]

I highly recommend getting Heavy duty sway bars with a lift over 2-3" the difference in cornering is very noticeable

[@EnriqueReyesJrREALTOR]

How does it drive with the oversized wheels & tires? I bought a 1997 4Runner, it had 15” oversized negative wheels & tires, it road horrible. I replaced the wheels with stock 2020 4Runner 17” wheels, with the factory offset. It rides great now. It goes over giant pot holes, & cracks in the street much better than the other wheels. It feels totally stable on the freeway now. Yes I had it aligned. Great. Job on your Land Cruiser! Awesome you’re paying attention to mechanical detail. Not just tying to make it look cool.

[@RM_Garage]

Honestly it drives really well but my suspension is also upgraded.

[@freihjordan9308]

I have a 93 ! Had it since 1999 . Milage gage stoped working last year at 267000 . And I put on her 10.000 since than . She runs and sounds like a new car! I won't sell her for less than $30.000 !! 15:13 15:13 15:13 15:13

[@likeasumbody403]

Honestly, a great thorough video but I really appreciate the upfront TLDR; I despise those videos that only give the information from the video title only towards the end. Keep it up~

[@RM_Garage]

I will never post a video that doesn’t get to the point. I also despise that!

[@Odins-Dad]

13:40 I can't tell you why, but that feels like the parking lot of an LDS church lol! sweet build, Love the wheel choice

[@RM_Garage]

That’s hilarious because it is. How did you guess that?

[@marcielynn4886]

Paid 3G for my 92' New set of tires. Still running strong.

[@stigzinn7751]

Really a great video. Love you go straight to the point, and then break it down piece by piece. It is a classic and I have been crazy about LC 80 series since when they were new. 😁

[@Art-cq1zy]

My friend has a 97 and he got it for under 10k but the engine needed to be replaced before 200k. He also spent 10k to replace it haha said it was worth it since he plans on keeping forever

[@KiyaWarrior]

Nice job man. Maybe someday Ill do all of this to mine but it runs great still and its my only vehicle so we shall see. Keep up the great 80 series content brother.

[@RM_Garage]

Thank you! No reason to tear it apart if it runs great! These motors can easily see over 300-400k if maintained well and if I recall correctly, they're good for 3 rebuilds. So...1 million miles and beyond!

[@mordconfessor1060]

i just lucked out and got a 80 series 96 model not triple locked for $4800 but came with the smitty winch , arb bumper , procomp lights , OME 3'' lift and brand new 35'' Yokahama G003's. but the caveat is that it needs hella maintenance to try to save it but its a really good starting point i think

[@user-tc6fz9ud6r]

Damn, that is so beautiful. Definitely well worth the money. It would cost me more because I'm not that mechanical savvy plus I just don't have the tools.

[@brianpeck697]

Sick rig!

[@lennyross2813]

I997 80 series for 20 years here, great job and thanks for Sharing ! Some advice if i may. If you plan on doing some hard core wheeling, 4.88s ring and pinion are what i have run with 35/36 inch tire range. 5.29 pinions are just too small in my opinion . But i know some 80’owners that run them with 40s with no Problems. 4x4 lab rear bumper is great, metal tech skidplate, RCV gun drilled front CVs, they have rear axleshafts now, double cardan front drive shaft, ARP STUDS when you rebuild your axles . I have factory lockers but you may want to do Harop elockers.

[@mdellan2001]

Agree, rebuilding old TLC is a nightmare and it's extremely expensive

[@6thGearGarage]

FZJ80 Series owners always have that failing headgasket in the back of their mind... must be nice not to have to worry about that for another 200k+ miles, along with the rest of the engine. Now it's time to enjoy it without worry!

[@RM_Garage]

Now I just worry about me putting everything back together correctly despite being super meticulous! I’m a natural worrier though.

[@sethouk1453]

Great work! It's good that you know how to do the work yourself. 80 series are such a beautiful vehicle, in my opinion. I have a 95' I bought for 8k. I am planning to do some work on it, but I don't have enough knowledge to do the work myself, so I imagine it's going to cost me a lot more.

[@BrianODonohue]

Awesome work! Thanks for the breakdown on everything. It's looking fantastic (so far). Continued success brother!

[@sunset3052]

Great detailed video! Thank you!

[@lonniejames6674]

I've been thinking about rebuilding my 97 40th Anniversary with 295k on it, which I basically love. Original paint (bad condition) and interior (worn). Not too sure of the condition of the components of the power train, but would consider it worthwhile if I could get to a stage of reliability. Interior and exterior needs work as well as the HVAC as apparently the AC module is no longer available. Electric components are rotting as well some trim parts. I'd like to figure out a better gas mileage as it's running at 16 mpg normally with a cylinder having problems. No interlock, but it working on the tranny, then could be added. I was happy to see your video and appreciate your insight into the various elements of a rebuild.

[@JoseSanchez-ex6zn]

Thank you 15000 now i watch the video cuz i know what to expect.

[@RM_Garage]

I can’t stand when videos don’t immediately tell you. I wanted to get it out there so people know without having to watch it all

[@osrselgin_2_1bcx54]

thank you for answering the question in the first minute, im gonna like and subscribe just for that! (and leave a comment). !!! :)

[@RM_Garage]

Thanks!

[@osrselgin_2_1bcx54]

@@RM_Garage i love you

[@farnsworth3000]

Love your build! Great summary.

[@masonstruckadventure9368]

What's a sharp build. Thanks for sharing

[@Arcl1t]

Respect for sharing the final number at the start

[@fatheadmeetoo2891]

Make me want to get working on mine. Good on ya!

[@marshallborges9606]

Awesome video! Thanks for breaking it down. LS swap, here I come!

[@RM_Garage]

I’ll probably do the same thing in the future

[@Shakshuka69]

I'm like $15k into my 97 and my bottom end is original and my suspension is stock and I'm on 285s so don't feel bad, you're doing great 😂

[@Mr.Wonderful731]

Nice job! Just got finished doing a lot of this myself. 317,000 when I did it. Hopefully another 317 before I do it again.

[@Mytubepalma101]

Great breakdown of your costs👏👏👏

[@mrclutch4855]

I have a 1997 and I love it can’t wait to do more to it I’m gonna keep it simple tho don’t really like going overboard on useless cosmetics

[@brimstonehd]

$15k? You’re just getting started! 😂 Nice work bringing this one back!

[@Queensizemusic]

Well done. I am, however, surprised you didn’t just spring for the OEM pistons.

[@RM_Garage]

Overpriced at $130 a piston. I asked the machine shop how often they use 3rd party pistons and they said in every build. (As was my experience and never had an issue) Already spent too much money on an underpowered engine when I could’ve gone LS, and probably will in the future.

[@Queensizemusic]

@@RM_Garage ah, I see.

[@Solvefunction]

Damn good work! Need to get out and wheel with you

[@adil6094]

Great content, very easy to watch. Thanks

[@RM_Garage]

Thanks. I try to make it in way that can hold my attention span, which is very short. That way I know it’s easy to watch lol!

[@odthegreatest]

I'm planning to go for a VX80 as well, thanks for the tips.