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ICON 4X4

bajamedic - 7-17-2011 at 02:34 PM

Does anyone have any experience with the ICON FJ Series in Baja? It appears to be well built, but all I have is the advertising at this point. JH

dizzyspots - 7-17-2011 at 05:48 PM

and a lot of $$$$$$$$$ to buy one HOLY COW!!
saw one in person on m/c trip thru Cedar City UT...but $60-70K??????

slimshady - 7-18-2011 at 12:06 AM

Those are a rip off. I am rebuilding a 1971 FJ40 from the frame up. I even got the same diesel as the ICON model. That guy wanted to charge me 30k for the engine and the install. I paid 7k for the engine and another 5 for the NAV 4500 tranny and the install. I am having "Man a fre" in Simi Valley rebuild a completely new one for half the price you would pay for that fake Toyota. Don't do it! I own a FJ60, a 2004 Landruiser, and am building the FJ40. You could find a decent used one for 15k if you are lucky. Best offroad vehicles ever made.

Name the worst conceivable place on earth like Afghanistan, Somalia, Central Africa, Libya etc.. Chances are they are driving a toyota Landcruiser or Hilux through hell and it still runs.

rob - 7-18-2011 at 08:44 AM

Slimshady - totally correct on finding Toyota Landcruisers (and FJs) in very tough places. Did a lot of work in Indonesia in the early 90s, and what burned me up was the fact that a Landcruiser sold in there for less than half of what it cost in California AND you had a diesel option!

Ken Cooke - 7-18-2011 at 09:25 AM

Their factory is steps from my house. Everyday on my way home from work, I gawk at all of the cool trucks parked outside, while the ICON guys are upstairs programming on their computers - all visible from the street. I see the employees driving their fixed up Toyota trucks to the factory daily. They look like they have a very good thing going here in town.

slimshady - 7-18-2011 at 11:10 PM

The Prado, the Hilux, and Pajero. We would be so lucky to have them here in the States.

Ken Cooke - 7-18-2011 at 11:54 PM

I was particularly impressed with the FJ Pickup truck with factory snorkle **AND** straight axle suspension. No (I)nferior (F)ront (S)uspension for the South American consumers. Toyotas come ready to use off the shelf in that part of the world. :light:

classicbajabronco - 7-19-2011 at 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by dizzyspots
and a lot of $$$$$$$$$ to buy one HOLY COW!!
saw one in person on m/c trip thru Cedar City UT...but $60-70K??????

\

....from what I read they start at $96 and go to $170k to have one built.

here are some used ones.

http://www.tlc4x4.com/sales2.asp

http://www.dupontregistry.com/autos/search/DRauSearchResults...

You could build your own for a fraction of the cost and have better parts...like Dynatrack dana 60 axles..rather than dana 44's out of a rubicon.

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 10:12 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by classicbajabronco
You could build your own for a fraction of the cost and have better parts...like Dynatrack dana 60 axles..rather than dana 44's out of a rubicon.

Even the Rubicon guys will tell you that. They will even sell you their Dana 44s so that they can buy Dynatrack axles w/the housings.

slimshady - 7-19-2011 at 10:48 AM

You can build one for half the cost. That guy over at TLC marked it up way too much.

OH WHAT A FEELING TO DRIVE A TOYOTA!

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 10:58 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by slimshady
You can build one for half the cost. That guy over at TLC marked it up way too much.

Over-priced is an understatement!

David K - 7-19-2011 at 01:38 PM

The 'overpriced' ICON is NOT a TOYOTA PRODUCT... But, they use a Toyota to build upon... not a Jeep or any American brand vehicle :light:

Interesting, isn't it??? :?:

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 02:45 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
The 'overpriced' ICON is NOT a TOYOTA PRODUCT... But, they use a Toyota to build upon... not a Jeep or any American brand vehicle :light:

Interesting, isn't it??? :?:

I've seen vehicles not born from the Toyoda family being modified at the ICON facilities. Go figure.. :?:

David K - 7-19-2011 at 05:43 PM

So Ken, is it just the Toyota look-alikes that ICON makes that are over-priced.. and not the U.S. brand look-alikes???

This thread is about ICONs and how expensive THEY are... I wondered why you said (their) Toyota look-alikes are over-priced, but they aren't coming from Toyota priced like that, are they?

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 06:10 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
So Ken, is it just the Toyota look-alikes that ICON makes that are over-priced.. and not the U.S. brand look-alikes???

David - I don't believe you real all of the posts. We are talking about the over-priced Toyota Land Cruiser Association (TLC(A)) rebuilds. You need to spend some time and hit the hyperlinks, and then respond after you read what everyone else is talking about.

David K - 7-19-2011 at 06:14 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote:

Originally posted by slimshady
You can build one for half the cost. That guy over at TLC marked it up way too much.

Over-priced is an understatement!

Ken, I was only responding to this from you in a thread about ICONs.

No worries... Even if Toyotas cost more... they are sure CHEAPER to own, since they don't typically fail/ break/ need repairs for most of us who have them... Whay else have they become the world's largest car company... if not for making good vehicles at a reasonable price?

Udo - 7-19-2011 at 06:17 PM

Would be nice if some of us had that kind of time, Ken.

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 06:34 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke

Quote:

Originally posted by slimshady
You can build one for half the cost. That guy over at TLC marked it up way too much.

Over-priced is an understatement!

No - We were talking about the 'TLCs'. :light:

David K - 7-19-2011 at 06:45 PM

Okay, I guess I am way off Ken...

In my world (which I understand isn't all shared by everyone):
I am in a thread about ICON... slims said they are way over priced... and you made a Toyota company comment (Oh what a feeling)... Now it is TLC (what is that)?

I missed a turnoff from the thread subject, I guess? No worries... we are in different worlds, that's all! :wow:

slimshady - 7-19-2011 at 06:54 PM

The ICON is a basically a kit of the Toyota FJ40 Landcruisr. TLC has taken basically taken the design of the FJ40 and incorporated the ICON with new construction and engine options. Yes it is a nice ride but for what you will spend with them at TLC, I am building one myself with my own options and preference for half the costs. Plus it will bear the Toyota badge and not some gecko.

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 06:54 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
I missed a turnoff from the thread subject, I guess? No worries... we are in different worlds, that's all! :wow:

Check those reading skillz, dude. There is a Full-size Chevy at the ICON facilities *most days of the week*. It is a *non-Toyoda-family vehicle*.

South American Toyota Vehicles

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 07:00 PM

These are a cut above the IFS-suspension vehicles you can *ONLY BUY* in the United States. I guess, Americans are soft. :yes:

Had this variety of Toyota vehicles been available in the United States, I would have STONGLY CONSIDERED buying one. :light:

The Toyota HiLux Pickup - Perfect for a family, and a drive in the country.

The *CONTEMPORARY* Toyota Land Cruiser - Yea :yes:

Spartan family-transport, but perfect for the trail and camping :yes:

A fully-operable Toyota Land Cruiser for *under $50,000.00?* Only in South America. :light:

Here's THE GOOD STUFF

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 07:05 PM

A Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup - not for $107,000.00 like the 1962 model at TLC.

Factory snorkle, straight-axle suspension - STANDARD :!:

Suzuki Samauri w/AC, Hardtop, and built for the Developing World. :!:

How about a PROPANE-POWERED Willys Jeep Flatfender! :bounce:

Bring out the Long Wheelbase Toyotas!

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 07:19 PM

Here's a great pickup that is built for Baja!

How about a long-wheelbase Toyota Land Cruiser AMBULANCE! Yeah! :bounce:

SMACK TALKIN'!

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 07:41 PM

I am a friendly 4 wheeler. But, 4 Wheelers are unfortunately known for strong personalities and hostile behavior. The gf of this guy trash-talked my Rubicon into a challenge. The TLC Wagon and my Rubicon were a tie, although the TLC ran 35" Tires compared to my 33" Tires, and the TLC had more ground clearance since my Transfer case was dropped 2" to accomodate the lift kit that I currently run.

I wouldn't let this woman trash talk me and my junk in front of my wife. So, a challenge ensued. This guys girlfriend is a damn good driver, though.

David K - 7-19-2011 at 07:48 PM

"my Transfer case was dropped 2" to accomodate the lift kit that I currently run."

Somehow, this kind of logic escapes me???

Ken Cooke - 7-19-2011 at 08:52 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
"my Transfer case was dropped 2" to accomodate the lift kit that I currently run."

When a short-wheelbase vehicle is lifted, and a non-CV Driveshaft is utilized, the angles of the driveshaft and the cannot be too acute, or driveline vibration will result. The 3 spacers you see directly underneath the drivers door is the 'shovel' which was dropped 2" which is notorious for catching on obstacles. I plan on giving my Jeep a 1" body lift and 1" motor mount lift in order that I can run a taller tire and delete this hinderance (the transfer case drop spacers). Running taller will be a good thing!

David K - 7-20-2011 at 09:33 AM

Okay Ken, thanks for explaining it to me...

In my thinking, the only reason to go to a bigger tire is to increase ground clearance (provided the stock tire has good floatation ability). For example, my Tacoma had a stock min. ground clearance of 9" (bottom of differential to ground) with the 265/70-16 (31") tires. Those tires did everything I needed... but since a bigger tire will fit without a problem, I changed the size.

Without adding a lift kit, the truck can run 32" tires (265/75-16) and they will not rub, at all... My Dynapros are the larger size and my minimum ground clearance is now 9.5".

My transfer case isn't much higher than the differential, so when you say you had to 'lower' yours to fit bigger tires, it seemed to be a wash. However, a Jeep transfer case might be higher compared to a Tacoma, in relation to the differentials?

Of course, driving over wrecked cars isn't why I got a 4WD... and maybe you need more ground clearance for things like that!?!

Ken Cooke - 7-20-2011 at 10:53 AM

Besides traveling down dirt roads in Baja, I also enjoy challenging mountain routes (also in Baja) and also in the desert Southwest. When crossing the swamp on the route to Mission Santa Maria, more ground clearance is also a necessity.

J.P. - 7-20-2011 at 11:05 AM

While on a trip down south we ran into a Canadian driving a new toyota land cuiser diesel with a righ hand drive.not being overly impressed with toyota that was a fine machine :yes:

Baja12valve - 7-20-2011 at 12:10 PM

Well, here goes. Nothing personal, but I like the good 'ol Dodge Cummins 12 valve (far from stock) engine. Linked with a NV4500 5sp, New Process 241 DHD transfer case, Dana 80 rear, 60 front (completely modified), 285/75/16 BFG AT's, it is a pretty strong drivetrain. The regular cab makes for a shorter wheelbase, the larger bed has a ton of space with a cab high aluminum camper shell. Goes anywhere I care to point it. Easy and simple to work on, no computers or electronics.

Ken Cooke - 7-20-2011 at 02:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Baja12valve
285/75/16 BFG AT's Goes anywhere I care to point it. Easy and simple to work on, no computers or electronics.

I am seriously in the market for a new set of Baja tires, but I've experienced a few BFG AT failures. Don't these tires make you nervous while traveling out in the bush?

Baja12valve - 7-20-2011 at 03:56 PM

Have to say I am OK with the tires. I have never had a failure, even with the weight of my truck. Lucky, I guess.

Ken Cooke - 7-20-2011 at 05:42 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Baja12valve
Have to say I am OK with the tires. I have never had a failure, even with the weight of my truck. Lucky, I guess.

It might have to do with the heavier rating 'E' rating as opposed to a 'C' Rating, I suppose.

David K - 7-20-2011 at 05:49 PM

Hankook Dynapro ATm's (P or LT rated available)

Highway Quiet, worked great in mud, snow and desert... no problem in sand... Have them for 8,000 miles so far, and loving them... I have the P rated ones, as I rarely have a heavy load, and the truck's stock BFGs were P rated.

Baja12valve - 7-20-2011 at 09:06 PM

My only problem with the tires is that my truck eats them for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If I get 30K a set, I am doing well. I will probably try another tire when these wear out, which won't be long.

dtbushpilot - 7-20-2011 at 09:31 PM

We have run BFG's on our company trucks for years and while we have gotten pretty good service and off road traction in mud and snow the wear-ability hasn't been anything to brag about. If we get 30,000 miles we are happy. I run Toyo 10 ply's on my Dodge 3/4 ton diesel and my FJ Cruiser and have been happy with them so far. They are a little stiff and noisy on the FJ but they are really tough, just what we needed on our trip to Bahia de los Muertos today.....dt

Ken Cooke - 7-20-2011 at 09:52 PM

I have run Interco TrXus MTs for the past 7 years, and I have been able to run the tires to 30K mi. each set. My current set have been on my Jeep for the past 4 years, and still have 4/32nd worth of tread.

David K - 7-20-2011 at 10:34 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ken Cooke
I have run Interco TrXus MTs for the past 7 years, and I have been able to run the tires to 30K mi. each set. My current set have been on my Jeep for the past 4 years, and still have 4/32nd worth of tread.

The Dynapros are a 50,000 mile tire...

Hankook DynaPro ATM RF10
Product Details

Premium aggressive all-terrain for light truck, van & sport utility vehicle. Innovative tread and sidewall design to enhance the style of your vehicle. Developed for high powered pickups. The Dynapro ATm offers the best grip and acceleration both on- and off-road.

Rugged Puncture Resistance
Wraparound tread gives tire a rugged look and guards against cuts, bruised and impact breaks. Affords outstanding traction espeically in muddy or snowy conditions.

Wave Kerf
Deep two step sipes extend tread life and increases performance on wet roads.

Tiered Side Groove
A tiered groove is applied, which makes a moving angle of the tread block smaller compared to the conventional non-tiered groove when cornering, to secure safer cornering running performance.

Stone Ejector
Stone ejectors in the center and shoulder grooves help prevent tire damage from stones or external impacts and enhances handling confidence.

Scallop Grooves
The "Scallop grooves" between the tread blocks increase the tire's "biting" edges to enhance traction off-road.

Angled Side Groove
Enhances wet traction has self cleaning function by pushing mud out.

Wide Tread
The footprint has been enlarged (7-8% increase than comparable products) to resist eneven wear while providing the best grip and acceleration under all road conditions.

Rim Flange Protector
Guards expensive wheels from accidental curb damage.

Rim Cushion
Prevents sidewall damage and tire separation that might occur when the air pressure is low. Provides safer running performance.

Going where no Jeep has gone in Baja...

Ken Cooke - 7-20-2011 at 11:42 PM

The TrXus MT has a good, siped tread with big lugs, but is not mileage rated. Most people get about 35,000 mi. out of these tires. The are quiet for a Mud-Terrain tire, but are considered All-Terrains - with large lugs.

wessongroup - 7-21-2011 at 12:21 AM

Thanks for the info... always something to think about...

'yotas in $-it holes

EdZeranski - 7-21-2011 at 09:30 AM

Quote:

Name the worst conceivable place on earth like Afghanistan, Somalia, Central Africa, Libya etc.. Chances are they are driving a toyota Landcruiser or Hilux through hell and it still runs.

For sure!!! I had a Hilux in Iraq then again in Afghanistan, both 4 door crewcab Diesel models with manual transmissions. Lots of Hilux trucks wired together but still going in both places. The LandCrushers were the kind built for non US sales with snorkels, winches, and right hand drive. Even the LandCruisers that looked like the ones currently sold in the US were tougher models.

Ken Cooke - 7-21-2011 at 02:35 PM

This morning in front of the ICON offices here in Riverside, were three well-built Toyota 4x4s, and 1 Ford F-150 for sale. Go figure...