I've done my research and it seems that these units are fairly bullet proof. That said, is there anything beyond fluid leaks or obvious signs of collision/frame repair that I should be on the lookout for? Of course I'll use Carfax as well, but I just want to make sure I cover all my angles as 13-19 grand for an 8 year old used vehicle is a purchase I want to be sure of. Thanks for your help.

 

Keep an eye out for F/R diff locks. Thats an added feature thats not on all models. Fairly useful, especially when you're really stuck.

I live in Naples and yesterday I saw one for sale in front of a new home model center. I also checked the paper and found the ad. If I remember correctly, its a 94 with only 108k on it. I think they were asking 10,000 or something close to that. I have not checked out the cruiser up close, but it seems like a decent deal.

The 94's I believe have a less powerful engine, but has been reliable. Also inquire as to whether the hubs have ever been serviced. Sand here tends to kill everything.
Heres a link to the ad: Ad you'll have to type in Land Cruiser in the search block, I couldn't get the ad to come up by itself.

 

If I had the $$$, I would be tempted to purchase this sucka:
http://www.sleeoffroad.com/pictures/forsale.htm

 

My step-mom has a '96 with about 125K on it. It's had the heater core start leaking and just recently something just went out in the EGR system. I'm still hunting that one down. Otherwise it has been very reliable. It's isn't fast by any means and drinks gas because it is all-time 4WD. Yes, do watch out for the front and rear lockers. That woud be great to have.

Good Luck

 

Florida=Rust

 

Florida=Rust, thats true, but only on the top side. Unlike many other places in the east, vehicles here in South FL rust from the top down (salt air). I was thinking if the owner was intelligent enough to buy a Cruiser, maybe they'd also be smart enough to wax it regularly. I know what you're saying though, a desert cruiser would be a much better choice.