Land Cruiser Of The Day! – Enter the world of Toyota Land Cruisers

LOVE THE MUSTARD!!!

1978, the last year of the classic round bezel and most sought after in those models. The restoration started with a cosmetic overhaul after all mechanical checks and maintenance. The whole truck was torn down piece by piece and attended to. The rear tub was replaced with an aluminum aqualu tub upgrade ($5000)……no worries of ever rusting! (The FJ tubs were susceptible to rust especially at the rocker panels and rear quarters due to poor quality sheet metal.) All new Toyota OEM replacements were used when available. Engine bay is all original with the exception of the carburetor which is a Weber. Engine fires right up without the need of the choke. The original 2F 4spd engine has less than 100K miles, runs extremely strong, and cruises comfortably down the road. All cylinders passed compression tests. All smog components are still in tact (just not attached). This can be easily reconnected if your state requires it (CA).

Tires are all new 33″ BFG Mud Terrains. Just added a new Optima battery and muffler. All new OEM weather stripping, emblems, correct stainless steel hardware, door run channels, etc. Seats have been re-upholstered with all new CCOT leather covers exact to Toyota specs. Suspension includes a 3.5″ lift kit with OME springs and RC shocks. The original radio in dash was left for classic appeal and value, but a JVC CD player was added in addition to a Tuffy console box. All spot weld marks were attended to……..all body lines are smooth like today’s cars (not wavy in the sunlight like original). No expense spared on the meticulous paint job. Truck looks and rides better than factory.

This truck has spent 90% of it’s life in Missouri with it’s original owner and garage kept. I have owned many FJ40’s over the years, and this was probably the cleanest find I’ve come across as far as it’s condition. I can confidently say that over 85% of the FJ’s I find will not make the cut for restoration. Climate shows these are becoming more popular in the high end auctions (Barrett-Jackson, Mecum) as they have topped over $100K in less time than predicted (2013). Pics do not do this FJ justice……it is a showroom piece.

Photo Gallery:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/124564932@N02/

Really too much to list so here are the basics as I know I am missing quite a bit………..

Cosmetic work done:

Frame-off restoration. Truck completely disassembled.

Professional 3 Stage Sherwin Williams Ultra 7000 paint in Toyota color code 532 (Mustard Yellow).

Work completed by J & T body Shop Charlotte, NC with over 40 years experience!

All Seats have new leather upholstery in gray color code CCOT Toyota specs!

All new stainless hardware inside and out for appearance and never to rust!

All new emblems, badging, weather stripping throughout, etc.

Mechanical and Electrical include:

OME springs with RC shocks