TJM 4WD Equipment

[geoffjy]

Just thought i would start a new thread here since it hasnt got much to do with the Tag-a-long.


Since buying the cruiser i have been looking at all the mods. Allready getting a bit done to it tomorrow. Megatronics battery managment system, CB Radio, spotties, Upgraded XGS suspension, flares etc.

And thats thats only the start. Have other things planned for it. Have to go back to work first.

[loxsmith]

Upgraded XGS suspension, flares etc.

Be very careful of TJM's Nationwide Warranty!!!!!!!! It's not worth the paper it is written on.

[Nedly]

Be very careful of TJM's Nationwide Warranty!!!!!!!! It's not worth the paper it is written on.

I was talking with someone the other day and they mentioned that TJM were having a few problems.
Apparently ARB are doing a lot of stuff that they can't do because of their problems.

I can't go into any detail in case my info is incorrect.
Has anyone heard anything?

[loxsmith]

I was talking with someone the other day and they mentioned that TJM were having a few problems.
Apparently ARB are doing a lot of stuff that they can't do because of their problems.

I can't go into any detail in case my info is incorrect.
Has anyone heard anything?

I know that they have cost me in the vicinity of $2000 after a recent major front suspension failure outside Innamincka, temp repairs we effected and the vehicle driven slowly to Alice. Upon contacting their customer service I was told the nearest dealer was in Winnelie, Darwin. The car now sports ARB suspension!
Since then the TJM steel bullbar has developed cracks after only 40000km, just poor quality and service all round.

Am I pissed with them, you bet!

[ant]

Interesting.
I have had all my work done with TJM and would back them and recommend them to anyone I know.
It would be interesting to know the full story and what it all involved.

The guys I have met and dealt with (both local and in the National office) have a real pride in their company and their work.

[geoffjy]

I know that they have cost me in the vicinity of $2000 after a recent major front suspension failure outside Innamincka, temp repairs we effected and the vehicle driven slowly to Alice. Upon contacting their customer service I was told the nearest dealer was in Winnelie, Darwin. The car now sports ARB suspension!
Since then the TJM steel bullbar has developed cracks after only 40000km, just poor quality and service all round.

Am I pissed with them, you bet!

I havnt had much to do with TJM in the past but have never heard anything negative. From memory i think they have something like 47 XGS suspension shops australia wide for all warranty and service work.

What exactly happened with the suspension?

[loxsmith]

From memory i think they have something like 47 XGS suspension shops australia wide for all warranty and service work.

What exactly happened with the suspension?

They might have 47 dealers Nationwide but they had none in Central Australia! As I said they directed me to Winnellie which is in Darwin and that's a long long way from Alice Springs.

The vehicle, a new Prado had under 20000km on and it when this happened had TJM gear outfitted from day one. The front strut sheared off just below the coil spring due to faulty welding and dropped the car straight onto the bump stop at speed. This of course dumped all the oil/gas out. A slow drive back to Innamincka and the mechanic scratched his head on what to do, but eventually welded it as best he could to get me to Alice with the front end flopping up and down. I was unable to wait the week for TJM parts of the same quality. Another temp repair with a replacement Repco strut inside the TJM coil rattled and clanged 'til I got back to Amberley when the passengers side also let go at 100kph. I gave up and it was a tilt tray for the last 70km home!

The cracked TJM steel bar had also slipped through the "Quality Control" with several welds missing. The bar had 20mm stress cracks on each side leading away from the mounts. The car by this time had under 45000km on it and no real serious offroad capers!

TJM's answer to all this was to offer a Taiwanese air compressor as compensation for the $2000 I am out of pocket. They can stick it where the Sun don't shine!

Read the warranty, it states it will cover parts but not labour, beware!!!!!! NEVER AGAIN

[plucker]

So do they advertise Australia wide or all around Australia.

[geoffjy]

I'm not sure Plucker, but i will check out the warranty tomorrow and let you know.

I love the new suspension which includes the coil springs, shockies, castor correction kit and steering dampener. It has raised the cruiser 4 inches and makes me really wish i had sidesteps. It has also eliminated a minute wobble in the steering that there was previously and gives a better ride and handling as well. When braking sharply it stops the nose from diving which could be very handy to stop from bottoming out at speed. Cornering is also a dream as it doesnt lean that much to the side when going around a corner.

Also, as a last minute addition, i had a set of Polyair's added as i will be heading back up the Cape with a fair load and a trailer. The Polyairs will be able to provide a maximum of an extra 500kg of load.

Also installed-

-Narva Ralle 4000's, one pencil beam and one wide beam. This can be converted to HID at a later date.

-Dual battery system for the fridge/freezer in the back. This includes a Megatronics Battery Management System.

-Airtec Snorkel

-Pioneer CD Player with Ipod and usb adapters

-Uniden CB Radio

-GPS System

I didnt get a chance to get the flares as they didnt arrive in time so will most likely have to get them at the start of October when i am down for the Tag-a-long.

The cruiser allready came with 2 brand new Stratos bucket seats, tinted windows, Hayman Reece tow bar and rear step, custom painted (dimpled paintwork)TJM alloy bullbar, cargo barrier, alloy rims and new Cooper tyres.

When i get a chance i will also put up a few pics of the beast.

[plucker]

Hi Geoff, something that may spark your eye is an article on another web page making a form of heavy duty side step which doubles as protection to the body of the vehicle.
This is opposed to the flimsy overpriced dealer versions.
You can find it here (http://www.pradopoint.com/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=3741&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&hilit=sliders)
Obviously it is for a different vehicle but shouldn't be too much different.

[geoffjy]

Thanks Plucker. Looks quite good actually except i would have to get it made in Cairns as the prices up my way can be a bit extreme.

One thing i should mention as well that i have used on 4wd's in the past is Morey's Oil Heavy Duty Engine Oil Stabilizer. http://www.moreysoil.com/products.cfm

It eliminates engine noise and makes shifting gears that much easier as well as protecting your engine. I changed the oil in the cruiser today and put Morey's in and went for a drive. There was a noticeable difference in gear changing, it became smoother.

[ant]

I use a similar product from Bi-Tron in all my oil and love the stuff.

[geoffjy]

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq69/geoffjy/DSCF1596.jpg

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq69/geoffjy/DSCF1597.jpg

[geoffjy]

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq69/geoffjy/DSCF1598.jpg

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq69/geoffjy/DSCF1599.jpg

[geoffjy]

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq69/geoffjy/DSCF1600.jpg

[geoffjy]

I tried to find the warranty paperwork Plucker but no such luck. I think it might allready be in one of the boxes i packed.

[geoffjy]

Plucker, I come across this on their website-

"Whether you install a set of shock absorbers, a pair of springs or a full TJM XGS 4WD Suspension Kit, you’ll notice an immediate improvement in your vehicles ride, handling, load carrying capabilities and towing ability. We believe it’s the best ride ever that’s why we offer an industry leading Three Year / 50,000Km Warranty. This is backed by the peace of mind knowing there are 48 XGS Suspension Specialists Australia wide for your assistance if you need it."

[plucker]

There is probably some record at the place where you got it installed. Nowdays everything is electronic so maybe something could happen if you ring.

[ant]

Hi Geoff,
Looks great mate.

What happened to the flares??

Good move on the air bags too. I have found these to be one of the best additions to my car, particularly for my work.

[geoffjy]

Hi Geoff,
Looks great mate.

What happened to the flares??

Good move on the air bags too. I have found these to be one of the best additions to my car, particularly for my work.

Hi Ant,

Unfortunately they didnt arrive in time. Warwick called me and said they arrived today but i only have Thursday in Cairns and will be pretty busy. I will have to come down a couple of days before the Tag-a-long to get them done.

I was up around the tablelands today and cringed a few times when i heard the occasional rock come up and hit the side of the car and i wasnt even on the dirt road.

Be good to put the Polyairs to the test going up as well as the suspension. Well worth the money i think.

[ant]

Geoff,
For what it's worth, I would be booking in before you head onto the dirt as the rocks are going to make a hell of a mess. You've seen my car- I speak from personal experience.

Can you get a hire car on the Thursday?
Talk to Warwick as he may be able to assist you with your needs.
Just don't tell him I said that!!!!

[geoffjy]

I had allready thought about that but they are booked out until after i leave. Warwick's away from today as well.

[ant]

They might have 47 dealers Nationwide but they had none in Central Australia! As I said they directed me to Winnellie which is in Darwin and that's a long long way from Alice Springs.

The vehicle, a new Prado had under 20000km on and it when this happened had TJM gear outfitted from day one. The front strut sheared off just below the coil spring due to faulty welding and dropped the car straight onto the bump stop at speed. This of course dumped all the oil/gas out. A slow drive back to Innamincka and the mechanic scratched his head on what to do, but eventually welded it as best he could to get me to Alice with the front end flopping up and down. I was unable to wait the week for TJM parts of the same quality. Another temp repair with a replacement Repco strut inside the TJM coil rattled and clanged 'til I got back to Amberley when the passengers side also let go at 100kph. I gave up and it was a tilt tray for the last 70km home!

The cracked TJM steel bar had also slipped through the "Quality Control" with several welds missing. The bar had 20mm stress cracks on each side leading away from the mounts. The car by this time had under 45000km on it and no real serious offroad capers!

TJM's answer to all this was to offer a Taiwanese air compressor as compensation for the $2000 I am out of pocket. They can stick it where the Sun don't shine!

Read the warranty, it states it will cover parts but not labour, beware!!!!!! NEVER AGAIN


One thing that would probably need to be clarified here is; was the initial word done by a TJM dealer and did you receive your copies of the warranty?

You also mentioned the Bull bar- was that sorted out?

[geoffjy]

I managed to get the flares put on today. Bought them from TJM then had them fitted by a panel beater. I will put a pic up tomorrow but needless to say, i am happy with them.

[geoffjy]

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq69/geoffjy/DSCF1601.jpg

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq69/geoffjy/DSCF1602.jpg

[geoffjy]

Hi Ant, I found the warranty paperwork. I had kept it in that box with the mags of all places.

TJM XGS SUSPENSION PRODUCT GUARANTEE

XGX Suspension, by TJM Products Pty Ltd, takes pride in supplying quality products and warants its suspension products to the original Retail Purchaser, for a period of 3 years or 50,000km against any defect in workmanship or material. This warranty does not apply to any suspension components installed in any application other than those specifically listed in the current XGS Suspension Catalogue and does not extend to any accidental damage, driver abuse or on or off road motor sport use. TJM does not warrant that the suspension products comply with the laws of the place where those products are purchased or used. It is the sole responsibility of the Purchaser to ascertain whether products being purchased - or the affixiation of those productsto any other object - comply with local laws.

Except to the extent described in the warranty, TJM shall not be liable for any other claims arising from incorrect fitment, faulty design, the use of the product or any indirect special or consequential damage or injury to any person, company, or any other entity. Further details are available in the XGS Warranty Procedure.

TJM Products is extensively insured domestically and internationnaly and offers both its Warranty and external Insurance Cover in support of our products and customer service policies.



WARRANTY PROCEDURE

Any suspension components that are claimed to be defective, should be returned to your nearest XGS Suspension Stockist only after inspection of those components on the vehicle to which they were originally fitted, by an XGX Suspension Stockist or after specific approval from XGS Suspension Warranty Department. Labour costs incurred in the removal and fitting of XGS Suspension components are the responsibility of the customer and will not be reinmbursed by XGS Suspension or any XGS Suspension Stockist. All freight costs incurred in the delivery to, and return from, your nearest XGX Suspension Stockist in relation to any Warranty claims on XGS Suspension components, are the responsibilty of the customer. Excluded from Warranty are any claims where cause is due to over tightening of mounts on shock absorbers, incorrect fitment and fitting of spring shackle bushes or mating of new poly bushes with old or worn shackle pins. All Warranty claims must be accompanied by the Warranty Form, correctly filled out by the XGS Suspension Stockist at time of fitting.

[ant]

Geoff,
I bet you are glad you did get the flares fitted. They really top off the vehicle. Looks great mate.

In regards to the suspension warranty, that all makes sense.

I would hate to be any of the aftermarket dealers. Imagine heading into a store and getting a suspension set up that suits your needs at that point in time.
A few years later, you have added things like a bull bar, drawer system, roof rack etc etc and all of a sudden the car is not handling properly any more. Fitting any aftermarket product is really dependent on the vehicle set up at that point in time and the use of the vehicle.
Years ago, I had new leaf springs put under my cruiser (front and rear) by a blacksmith and it was fantastic. The next time I headed up into Cape York, the back end was a little too saggy for me and when I got back I had to get another leaf put under the back which made the ride (when empty) around town a little bumpy, but once I had a load in her and headed north, it was perfect.

I guess, as with most things in life, it is all a compromise.

[geoffjy]

Yes, i agree Ant. The new suspension is supposed to sag about an inch about the 500km mark. I dont know if its my imagination at all, but i have done about 300km allready and the bumps feel softer compared to when the suspension was first put in.

The suspension that i have now takes into account that i will have a winch and draw syastem.

[Nedly]

Flares look good Geoff, truck looks less 'naked' now.

[loxsmith]

One thing that would probably need to be clarified here is; was the initial word done by a TJM dealer and did you receive your copies of the warranty?

You also mentioned the Bull bar- was that sorted out?

Yes and yes
Suspension work was done to a brand new '06 Prado, by a TJM dealer on the Southside of Brisbane. I have the original invoice detailing around $6000 worth of work

Bar was sorted, bit hard to argue with cracks that big, lucky I was in Brisbane when I noticed it!!!

[ant]

Thanks Loxsmith,
I guess the only real problem was that the warranty only covers the original owner (from my interpretation).

Glad to hear you had a win on the bar. Hope that the new one lives up to their reputation.

On an additional note, I noticed a press release a few days ago where TJM have released a 'Gold' edition of suspension components for vehicles such as the Prado.

[loxsmith]

Thanks Loxsmith,
I guess the only real problem was that the warranty only covers the original owner (from my interpretation).

Glad to hear you had a win on the bar. Hope that the new one lives up to their reputation.

On an additional note, I noticed a press release a few days ago where TJM have released a 'Gold' edition of suspension components for vehicles such as the Prado.

I drove the car off the showroom floor, it's been mine since day 1

I realise I will never see a dollar from this saga, but I will continue to ruffle a few feathers further up the TJM ladder for a bit of sport.

[geoffjy]

Thanks Loxsmith,
I guess the only real problem was that the warranty only covers the original owner (from my interpretation).
On an additional note, I noticed a press release a few days ago where TJM have released a 'Gold' edition of suspension components for vehicles such as the Prado.

Yes Ant. Thats true. Warranty is only valid for the original purchaser of the suspension.

I saw a brief bit about the Gold edition of suspension on the net the other day. It didnt go into great detail though.

[geoffjy]

Flares look good Geoff, truck looks less 'naked' now.

Thanks Nedly. Car looks a lot different now though. She is a bit muddy from the trip back up. Makes me really happy that i had the flares put on.

[Stacky]

O.k,
I've stuck my head in for a bit of a read and came across this huge Tjm promotion. Working long hours and 7 days a week and looking after our new edition has kept me very busy between minimal sleep.

Hey Geoff,
Your 80 Series is looking good, it's a great choice for up here, i still believe there the better wagon out of all the 60, 80, 100 and now 200's. My opinion may be bias but when it comes to value for money. You get a 80 with low k's and your laughing. A 60 would be my next choice of toughness and reliability.

Anyway, i can't help but feel this is a huge TJM plug on this site and i am fully aware they obviously have some sort of sponsorship on here.

When i purchased my 80 i rolled in to the Megastore and walked through the isles of the shop and saw some great things. I use these ideas and go elsewhere to see if i can get a better price or make it myself. I research on the websites to get other peoples opinions of a product which is something you may have seen me do on here. In the shop that day. i was blown away with the redicolous prices for most of the products. I cannot beleive people actually purchase some of this at a retail price.

My exTroopy has Tjm fibreglass flares and once you put real rubber on and start throwing rocks, these flares will chip away. Check your warranty on that, they also trap sh*tloads of mud up inside them which needs thorough cleaning. I had a Tjm winch bar on the Troopy and had no probs, but i reckon you will have the same result with any other quality steel bar. My XGS shocks held up o.k too, but so did my OME shocks on my hilux i once had, simply don't overload, don't speed or drive like you stole it and you will get the best results out of any quality shocks. Ofcourse there is an unforseen washout you might hit but if not overloaded most times you should pull through.

My 80 has polyair bags and i think from memory you put the air in between 5 and 25lb before you load the vehicle. Both my polyair bags have busted due to throwing sharp stones, check where your warranty stands there. I have Tjm roller draws and fridge slide in the back and they are strong but they do rattle. I am in the market for flares but still have not decided where or what to get, i'm leaning towards flexiflares but am aware that after time in the sun they will go floppy looking. Meanwhile mud and rocks are being thrown everywhere.

I am not on here to bag TJM out as they do make awesome products at probably less than half the retail price, but so do Arb, opposite lock etc.

These days i like to go a little more custom or original not generic after market and most times i still can get what i want under the cost of a 4wd store. I believe supporting local small backyard reputable businesses. Only if i was a boilermaker, diesel fitter and panel beater.

Sorry for my rambling, i better get another bourbon.

Happy Easter to all!!!

[ant]

Stacky,
Nice to see you back on board and to hear that things are going well at home. Funny how a small child/baby can change our worlds so quickly.

As for the 'TJM plug'. I don' think that is so. I have always maintained that this site is for everyone and everything. If I was here to openly plug just one company or brand (such as TJM) then the thread you wrote or the ones that Loxsmith has written would have been deleted. This site is meant to be a source of info for everyone. It is not, and never will be, a one way street.
As for any TJM sponsorship on the site. All advertisers on this site advertise for FREE and there is no exchange of money or product.
It may be hard for some readers/forum members to believe but advertising (for the magazine) is very hard to get. Each year, I approach every four wheel drive company (and other businesses) and TJM are the only ones who step up to the plate and show their confidence in me. I am sure that if other companies such as ARB, etc were to advertise in the magazine then you would also find their ad up here on the site as well.
I have mentioned in other posts over the years that I hold my credibility as a very important aspect of my business and I will stand by that.


I like the fact, in your post, that you have given some alternatives to after market products and I saw on another forum how some guys had made their own side steps. This sort of thing would be good to see here as well.

[Stacky]

Stacky,
Nice to see you back on board and to hear that things are going well at home. Funny how a small child/baby can change our worlds so quickly.

As for the 'TJM plug'. I don' think that is so. I have always maintained that this site is for everyone and everything. If I was here to openly plug just one company or brand (such as TJM) then the thread you wrote or the ones that Loxsmith has written would have been deleted. This site is meant to be a source of info for everyone. It is not, and never will be, a one way street.
As for any TJM sponsorship on the site. All advertisers on this site advertise for FREE and there is no exchange of money or product.
It may be hard for some readers/forum members to believe but advertising (for the magazine) is very hard to get. Each year, I approach every four wheel drive company (and other businesses) and TJM are the only ones who step up to the plate and show their confidence in me. I am sure that if other companies such as ARB, etc were to advertise in the magazine then you would also find their ad up here on the site as well.
I have mentioned in other posts over the years that I hold my credibility as a very important aspect of my business and I will stand by that.


I like the fact, in your post, that you have given some alternatives to after market products and I saw on another forum how some guys had made their own side steps. This sort of thing would be good to see here as well.

Thanks for your reply Ant,

I am surprised to hear that sponsorship is hard to get for your magazines.

Don't get me wrong, i love the mag 'Cape Yorker' and 'Fish & Boat' and have been a subscriber to both for a few years now. I have often spoke of the 'Cape Yorker' and have tried to be a regular forum member to help provide a little local input. Your credibility to your business is naturally important and very much valued by us readers. This is why i wanted to clarify that sponsorships has no value over tried and tested personal opinions.

I am a person that will call a spade a spade. I was hoping you would be the one that would respond to my slightly whiskey enhanced comment to rule out that there is any influence by sponsorship on this site.

To lighten the subject,
The original mods i have for my 80 are pretty standard, Baby seat, spot for pram, toys, nappy bag, mosquito net, esky and handlines (can't fit the rods in). My boat is gathering dust being a family man but that doesn't rule out a family day out driving and catching a landbased 5.2kg silver Barra on a 10lb handline. It proves anyone can catch Barra up here, you don't need a boat.

Cheers
Stacky

[ant]

Thanks for your reply Ant,

I am surprised to hear that sponsorship is hard to get for your magazines.

Don't get me wrong, i love the mag 'Cape Yorker' and 'Fish & Boat' and have been a subscriber to both for a few years now. I have often spoke of the 'Cape Yorker' and have tried to be a regular forum member to help provide a little local input. Your credibility to your business is naturally important and very much valued by us readers. This is why i wanted to clarify that sponsorships has no value over tried and tested personal opinions.

I am a person that will call a spade a spade. I was hoping you would be the one that would respond to my slightly whiskey enhanced comment to rule out that there is any influence by sponsorship on this site.

To lighten the subject,
The original mods i have for my 80 are pretty standard, Baby seat, spot for pram, toys, nappy bag, mosquito net, esky and handlines (can't fit the rods in). My boat is gathering dust being a family man but that doesn't rule out a family day out driving and catching a landbased 5.2kg silver Barra on a 10lb handline. It proves anyone can catch Barra up here, you don't need a boat.

Cheers
Stacky

Hi Stacky,
No problems at all mate.
As for the magazine advertising and sponsorship. I don't think the general public knows how hard this is. The only reason the last two editions came out is that I have a personal interest in Cape York and want to promote the area in a positive way. That and the positive feedback from every single reader have been why each edition has made it to print.
To give you an idea, last years mag (2008) ran with 18% advertising. Most magazines run with at least 50%. To say that I have lost money on the mag is an understatement. I have to start making some big decisions as I can not continue to fund it myself.
Don't get me wrong here as I do not want Cape Yorker to be just like any other mag that is full of advertising but I have to find a happy medium for this to continue.

Anyway, enough of the negative stuff.

I know how you feel in regards to the family man comment. It is funny. My job revolves around fishing and I probably fish the least out of any of my readers. Both work and family seem to take priority. The great thing about living in the Cape is that good fishing is usually very easy to find. I remember finishing work one afternoon (after the day from hell) and getting home to hook the boat up and head out for half an hour of fishing. I didn't care where I went I just had to get out. That half hour was one of the best barra sessions I had and I very quickly forgot about the day at work.
If only I had somewhere down here like that!!!!

[geoffjy]

O.k,
I've stuck my head in for a bit of a read and came across this huge Tjm promotion. Working long hours and 7 days a week and looking after our new edition has kept me very busy between minimal sleep.

Hey Geoff,
Your 80 Series is looking good, it's a great choice for up here, i still believe there the better wagon out of all the 60, 80, 100 and now 200's. My opinion may be bias but when it comes to value for money. You get a 80 with low k's and your laughing. A 60 would be my next choice of toughness and reliability.

Anyway, i can't help but feel this is a huge TJM plug on this site and i am fully aware they obviously have some sort of sponsorship on here.


G'Day Stacky,

I like the 80 series. I wont go into the whole Nissan/Toyota thing. :) Needless to say that i am really happy with the vehicle.

This thread wasnt intended as a promotional plug for TJM. If i or someone else had gotten ARB or something similar it would still be posted up here along with any negative or positive comments.

Good to see you still have time to get out and about. Nice barra too. Its a really nice spot there. Did you get many?

[loxsmith]

This is my last comment on this subject, I promise! But I may reconsider!

I own a 75 series Troopy, an 80 series (long ago sold), and a 100 series (long since sold), and the Prado the subject of this thread (I still have it)

The 75 is the toughest truck I have ever owned, vinyl floors, washable inside and out, just my kind of car. Shit brakes, crap mirrors, bad dust sealing, just how I like 'em!
The 80 was good, cracka twin cam petrol engine, but lacked powerful brakes and the clutch was prone to shudder
The 100 had bigger brakes, stronger clutch but a weak front diff centre
With the '06 V6 Prado, I was looking for something a little smaller than the full size wagons after the kids could wipe their own bums. Good all round car, cruise control, economy equal to the diesel Troopy, easy on brakes and tyres, not bad at all. Just no character!

So last week the accountant says I need to spend some money, I said where would you like me to get that from????

The Gubberment 30% rebate/stimlus package on new plant and equipment might be too good to pass up.

So I am considering a new V8 Troop Carrier, it would be hard to part with the existing 75 series that has been so faithful!

Time will tell where this all ends up!

Like one of the other posts, this is White and Johnnie fueled
Might have to edit it tomorrow!

[ant]

Loxsmith,
I can not comment as I have only owned a 1978 petrol cruiser, and my current 1987 turbo diesel.
Although I have to say that I was looking at the new LC76 but steered away mainly due to finances.
Still love my current rig and I am sure it will do many more trips up and back from Cape York.

I think a lot of the newer vehicles are not really made to take the punishment of continual off road use. Like most things these days, it is becoming a throw away society.

Might have to join you for a Johnnie one day.......... On the rocks.