hey all .. i've been contemplating picking up a second truck to do some serious off-roading.. and have found two trucks to choose from.

The first is an 85 (but needs the timing chain replaced...) i know that replacing the timing chain is a fair amount of work .. but am prepared for the worst.

The second is an 83 in minty condition 275,000 kms on the engine.

my question is what is the biggest difference between the two years?
I know they are 1st gen V.S 2nd gen and both are SFA trucks .. which is what im looking for.. is there anything else?

 

are they both 22r or does one have fuel injection?? cause fi is bomb.
also first gen might be a little more tight?
looks , check for rust and test drive both.

 

Well the 85 is probibly one of the most popular off road platform to build off, last year for the solid front axle (in north america) and optional Fuel injection (is the 85 carb'd?) and the new body style (well it was new in 84).

They are both great trucks, just go with the one in the best shape.

 

Biggest difference is going to be cab space. If you are a taller guy I would go with the '85, especially if it is EFI as mentioned before.

A timing chain is not that hard. You can look at the factory service manual link in my signature to get an an idea. Also keep in mind that a timing chain is something you will probably have to do on any truck at some point. If you can get the '85 dirt cheap and do the work yourself, it leaves you with some money for other upgrades.

Both trucks are going to have the same size engine, 22R or RE (look at the sticker on the end of the valve cover), unless someone had thrown in a 20r.

 

Well... Either way you go, you'll love it.

The 83, IMO, is a way cool body style that will turn heads
due to it's rarity. On the other hand, the 85, as mentioned
will have more room in the cab, and the possibility of an
EFI motor.

Provided both are in equal condition and both carbed motors, I would go with the 83 because I LOVE the
bodystyle. But, logic would tell me to go with the 85

 

Also, finding replacement body parts for the 83 may be a little harder as they are more rare.

 

yeah, im really torn between the two right now..

the 83 has new steel box sides and liner and 5spd (with moonroof! .. were those stock for that year ?)

The 85's body has been bondo'd on one side and unpainted (so body condition is so-so) .. but is on 35's also a 5spd. Havent gone to go see this one yet but assume its EFI

I am like 6'3" though and am already cramped in my 99' taco .. so space is a bit of a concern.

Thanks for all the input so far guys, I really appreciate it.

I would really love to drop a 5VZ-FE into whichever i get eventually, I LOVE the engine; but thats a ways down the road.

 

The moon roofs were stock on the DLX models... I had am 83 with a moon roof- it was really nice to have that extra ventilation. I have an 83 SR5 now and it does not have a moon roof. I wish it did. Although, I think the '83 is going to feel a little cramped for you. I am 6' tall and I have the steering wheel maxed out in hight for leg room (luckily it adjusts!)