The Toyota Landcruiser Owners Club

[tecowner]

:?:

Dear All

Seeking advice please on purchasing a reliable towing vehicle.

I currently tow a fairly heavy 19 foot caravan weighing in at 1220KG but probably nearer 1400KG when provisioned  but it is at the limit for my old Audi 2.5 TD at 155bhp and could do with a better lugger.

I have been reading very positive reviews of the Colarado which seem solid, though they tell you to watch rad/oil pump problems in vehicles over 7 years old. I am thinking of spending up to c£7K for a sub 120k vehicle but want to avoid any big bills.

I normally look to renew pulleys/belts and water pump on purchase for c £500, which would leave c£6.5K for the vehicle. Any advice on big items to watch out for? ..and what age/spec of vehicle/good places to seek?

Grateful for any advice from those with experience.

Best Wishes

Craig ( tec owner )

[Google]

[dame]

i bit the bullet myself and got shut of a rotten old 200series disco to tow our van, which probably comes in at a similar weight to what you mention.
looked round at a few td5 disco's but then google'd the landcruiser, found this site and my mind was pretty much made up.
there's just no comparison between my old disco, which was a 93, and my 96 lwb colorado.
its in a different league altogether with regards brakes, torque, quality, well just everything really.
i'm looking at 23-26mpg on diesel regardless of whether or not i am towing. got the car with 108k, gx auto, with full toyota stamps in the service book.
looking at changing springs and shocks this summer as the back end bottoms out now and again,which seems to be well documented. otherwise absolutely can't fault it.
a lot of mates with disco's, shoguns etc. mention fuel consumption. i spent a fortune every mot time just to keep the disco on the road so as far as i am concerned fuel consumption is offset by reduced maintenance costs.
good luck
 dame

[marlot]

I looked at several Colorados before deciding to go for a 120-series.  There are some good vehicles out there, but a load of poorly-maintained, end-of-life examples too.

Be suspicious of any on e bay which have new radiators - just in case they've had coolant in the autobox.  But apart from that, they seem to be a good choice.  I suggest Automatic would be a good move.

You could also consider a 3rd generation Hilux surf - essentially the same mechanics but in a prettier body.  Even the towbars are the same!