Last fall I decided I wanted an FJ40 and began learning all I could about them. I got lots of great advice on this board, and have been a regular lurker since. I am absolutley digging the build-up threads, especially buckroseau's. I've joined TLCA. I have carefully watched eBay, Craigslist, Hemmings, and the for/sale/wanted forum here for the "perfect rig". I've test driven half a dozen rigs.
My goal was to find a late model rig that was usable as a daily driver out of the box, mostly original, and a candiate for tinkering/restoring as a way for me to cut my teeth on a full frame-up restoration.
Thanks to Bull (he pointed me at the ad), today I finally made the big leap and purchased my first FJ40.
Until I can come up with a better nickname, I'm calling it (haven't decided on it's sex yet) "Turd" because it's Mustard Yellow.
{EDIT: Her name is Uglina. My 13 year old daughter says so.}
See pictures later in this thread.
Details:
Background:- Build date Nov 1978.
- Originally from Texas.
- Body restoration by CCOT in '94.
- Moved to WA in '95.
- I'm the 3rd WA owner.
- 71k original miles (documented).
Drivetrain:Suspension/Lift, Wheels/Tires:- Stock suspension.
- CCOT Power Steering (PO - Circa '94)
- CCOT Front Discs (PO - Circa '94)
- Ugly (imho) white spoker wheels. Soon to be replaced with original factory steel wheels with hubcaps.
Interior Enhancements:- CCOT A/C (PO - Circa '94)
- AM/FM/Cass with CD Changer, sub, & rear speakers. No metal damaged (PO).
Exterior/Armor Modifications:- Tow hitch/reciever (PO).
- H4 headlights (PO).
Long term I don't really know what my plans for this rig are other than I will do nothing to it that impacts it's originality. I really would love to make it better than factory-new with a frame off restoration someday, but I don't really know if I'm really capable...yet. My short term plans are to enjoy it by driving it to and from work regularly. Along the way I know I will be fixing all the little things.
It leaks a bit of oil and I want to have someone take a hard professional look at the motor. Reliablilty is paramount while I'm still convincing my wife this was a good idea.
I want to replace the wheels with stock steel wheels/hubcaps.
Dash pad is cracked.
Steering has a bit more play than I'd like.
etc...
First
real question: A PO had installed a weber/OME carb. The most recent PO had removed it and put the original factory carb back on. I noticed tonight that the air cleaner assembly is not bolted to the block where it should be. The two pictures below illustrate. Note the missing fastners. It *feels* secure, but clearly this can't be good, right?
