Is the frame in the current FJ cruiser the same as the frame in the current 4runner?

I was wondering if the 4runner was an open or closed box frame.

Q1: "The FJ Cruiser rides on a modified Tacoma pickup platform" (Source:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showth...p?threadid=161 )

Q2: "The all-new body-on-frame chassis has fully boxed section rails with large-diameter body mounts for increased torsional rigidity. The new frame has one additional crossmember." (Source: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showth...ighlight=boxed )

The FJ rides on a modified Prado frame. Prado is the identical twin of Lexus GX/4runner overseas...it comes in 2-door and 4-door versions i believe. The 2-door's frame is what the FJ is based heavily on. The 4-door version is same as GX and 4runner. Thus, the FJ is built off a version of the 4runner's frame, just shortened. And if you look underneath a FJ and a 4runner, then you will see a lot of similarities.

Yes, both FJ and 4runner's frames are fully-boxed front to rear. The Tacoma's frame is NOT fully-boxed...it is boxed on at the front (same for the new Tundra).

I would say that there is no relation to the tacoma. That reference is incorrect, althought I've seen toyota make a similar connection.

From toyota.ca:
"FJ rides on the same platform as Toyota's world-renowned Landcruiser Prado [4Runner]. Modified to add 210 mm to its length, the platform features a tough, fully-boxed frame with seven cross-members, full underbody protective coating, and solid skid armor in all the right places."


J

What kills me is that doesn't the 4runner have all of these features too?? Just reading Toyota's brochure/advertisements, you think that Toyota just invented the wheel with the FJ!

How good were the original FJ's? ...... anyone know?

They were very good, but it's hard to find one in excellent condition due to rust. So, if you were to get one, then you will need to spend some $$$ to renovate it.

Well, based on some of the posters I've seen here, I'm guessing I a little older than most. I can remember when my dad's friend's dad bought an FJ40 in '68 or '69. That thing got us to many a fishing hole and hunting location that very few others would attempt going into.

From those initial impressions, I have always wanted a restored FJ40. When the FJ Cruiser came out, I thought I would opt for one of those. However, I need a 4-door for now and a 4Runner has always been very high on my list. Therefore, I opted for the 4Runner.

However, if not for practicality rearing it's ugly head, I would have strongly investigated an FJ40 that I saw while buying my 4Runner. Apparentely the owner of the dealership where I got my 4Runner had just put his FJ40 on the used car lot. It had diamond plate interior and the body had some sort of interior-bed liner type of material covering all the body work. If only I had room for another vehicle...

I hear ya - I think Toyota marketing is having a little trouble positioning the Runner these days. Check the newest brochure, and especially the 06 (again Cdn), where the pics show some nice OR shots. However, read the internet site (.ca) and it talks about the some pretty fearsome stuff:

"Illuminated Running Boards on Limited models let you step up and brave the challenge of any off-road adventure, even if the sun calls it a day before you do."

Yikes, the sun is going down! No wonder people don't take it seriously.


J

I have always wondered this phenomenon with used Land Rover Defender and FJ40s. I know that it's cool or prestigious to have these vehicles. But, are they really that capable?? IMHO, i would rather get Jeep Wrangler Rubicon for several reasons: brand new vehicle, full warranty on all parts, rust-free (at least initially), no renovations needed, and less money spent overall. And you get a vehicle that will blow away any stock FJ40s or Defender easily off-road.

Just my opinion, and willing to hear other thoughts.

That's some funny stuff!!!

Well, I'm not sure I envision it as cool or prestigious. The general population (who are, by the way, the very same that certain owners are trying to impress with their vehicle choice) would not put an old FJ40 into either of those categories. However, there is something to be said for fond memories (ie: nostalgia). That is where my interest are. I really could care less about what someone else thinks of what I drive. But for whatever reason, I've always had a soft spot for the FJ40. I still hope to have one some day. Only time will tell.

To be different. A Wrangler is to 4x4's what a mid-range Mustang convertable is to sports cars.....every college parking lot has a bunch of each piloted by dorky collar-poppers.

Resto'ing/driving a Defender or an old 'Cruiser shows a lot more dedication to your cause, if you're into such things.

Yeah, maybe i am more of a practical person and also not into restoring old cars (not enough patience). I don't really care that everyone has one as long as it is worth it for me. My sis-in-law often comments why she hates Camry and Accords because they are everywhere...well, they are everywhere because they are good. I love my Corolla which i spend 80-90% of the time driving...everyone has one...now, i know why...it's a neat little car. My G is now strictly for off-roading use 99% of the time...and thus, collects dust in the garage.