Hi there

I am seriously considering a diesel 3.3L SWB Patrol.

I owned a 1975 SWB Toyota FJ40 Landcruiser 4.2L petrol/gas for a short while and loved it to bits. However, it wasn't reliable and should have been a 'project' for someone. I don't trust gas any more because I don't understand them and don't think I could work on it. I am now looking at a later SWB Nissan, but would consider a Landcruiser. They seem very similar.

I want the SWB so that I can take the back off, and maybe fuel economy. Most of the SWBs seem to be non-turbo, but turbo 3.3s do come up occasionally. Economy seems to be 25% better, and more power with the turbo. Is it worth waiting? Is there any reason not to got for a turbo?

I want to do some off-roading and quite a bit of travelling. Is the turbo a source of unreliablity? I also want to try vegetable oil in it. Anyone know any fuel consumption figures for the 3.3 SWB? I am assuming about 14 litres/100km.

People are asking $4000 for a decent looking 85-89 model ('negotiable'), but they can be $2200 - $5000.

Any advice gratefully received.

Thanks

Malcolm