shermantank55
SILVER Star
In March we found a 1970 FJ40 for my daughter. We figured Sherman, our FJ-55, could use a sibling around the house. Plus, with my daughter turning 15, we needed something bulletproof. Believe it or not, it was her idea. The sickness is hereditary.
Anyway, we found Cadet (as Shelby named it) about 60 miles south at a mechanic's shop in Morgan Hill, CA. He had trailered it from Nevada where the previous owner couldn't get it started. In Morgan Hill it got some engine care but sat for awhile. The owner apparently sold his property in Nevada and wanted to get rid of the FJ40. All the glass except the windshield was broken out and there was a dead rat wrapped around the front shock. That being said, Cadet looked to be in pretty good shape.
Once we dug in, we found a lot of rust lurking in the rear. Apparently the FJ40 was used to put a boat in and out of the water and to drive to and from a lake and cabin. This was later verified by the sand, pine needles and boat themed trash hiding in nooks and crannies. We have verified at least three previous owners in Northern and Southern California and Nevada.
The motor ran great, the transmission sounded good and the brakes seemed to slow the little beast down. It was relatively unmolested and still had the three speed column shifter and vacuum transfer. It did have some unfortunate seats in front and only one jump seat in back.
$3600 later, we were proud owners. As part of the package, the mechanic trailered it up to us the same day. Here are some shots from when Cadet came home:
Anyway, we found Cadet (as Shelby named it) about 60 miles south at a mechanic's shop in Morgan Hill, CA. He had trailered it from Nevada where the previous owner couldn't get it started. In Morgan Hill it got some engine care but sat for awhile. The owner apparently sold his property in Nevada and wanted to get rid of the FJ40. All the glass except the windshield was broken out and there was a dead rat wrapped around the front shock. That being said, Cadet looked to be in pretty good shape.
Once we dug in, we found a lot of rust lurking in the rear. Apparently the FJ40 was used to put a boat in and out of the water and to drive to and from a lake and cabin. This was later verified by the sand, pine needles and boat themed trash hiding in nooks and crannies. We have verified at least three previous owners in Northern and Southern California and Nevada.
The motor ran great, the transmission sounded good and the brakes seemed to slow the little beast down. It was relatively unmolested and still had the three speed column shifter and vacuum transfer. It did have some unfortunate seats in front and only one jump seat in back.
$3600 later, we were proud owners. As part of the package, the mechanic trailered it up to us the same day. Here are some shots from when Cadet came home:
