This week I finally found (got permission to buy) my dream vehicle. Back in 1994, I was in my first year of college at Southern Utah University. A group of us would climb into my friend's red 1989 FJ62 (Red) most weekends and head to one of the many national parks that Utah offers. I remember one Friday night, 6 of us (I know they only have 5 seatbelts) climbed into Red and went to Zion National Park. About 11pm, it started to pour. all six of us grabbed our sleeping bags, ran and climbed into Red. Did we drive home? No. 2 slept in the front seats, we put the middle seat down and our 3 nice coeds slept there. Where did I, the sixth person sleep? in the very back, sideways, in the fetal position, unable to stretch out all night, with 6 feet pressed into my kidneys for 6 hours. The absolute worst night I can remember (until last October's bout with kidney stones). And yet, I was in love (and not with the coeds).
So, this week, with some keen negotiating (with my wife, not the seller), I bought a blue 88 FJ62. I always thought I would get a red one, but this one spoke to me. I have printed all 300+ pages of the FSM and delivered donuts to my coworkers the next day to apologize.
She runs great. As with all older cars, I was sweating as she went through safety and emissions, but she passed. I know that she has a few oil drips and am going to have to go through and replace gaskets and fix as I go. First, however, Like most on here, I have to attack the front end, as it is bleeding and I suspect I will have to address the rotors and pads as well. I have a running list of things I need to/want to address and it gets longer everyday. I keep telling myself to take it slow and resolve my mechanical issues first.
The frame is straight and other than some bubbled paint under the rear window and by the drivers door handle (about the size of a nickel) it is pretty rust free. She even has a driver seat with no tears. Is that the FJ62 version of the unicorn?
I have been glued to this site for the last several days. I cannot be more impressed with the unity and friendliness that exists within this Land Cruiser community. You are all so supportive of one another. I hope to not only benefit but to (eventually) contribute as well.
So, this week, with some keen negotiating (with my wife, not the seller), I bought a blue 88 FJ62. I always thought I would get a red one, but this one spoke to me. I have printed all 300+ pages of the FSM and delivered donuts to my coworkers the next day to apologize.
She runs great. As with all older cars, I was sweating as she went through safety and emissions, but she passed. I know that she has a few oil drips and am going to have to go through and replace gaskets and fix as I go. First, however, Like most on here, I have to attack the front end, as it is bleeding and I suspect I will have to address the rotors and pads as well. I have a running list of things I need to/want to address and it gets longer everyday. I keep telling myself to take it slow and resolve my mechanical issues first.
The frame is straight and other than some bubbled paint under the rear window and by the drivers door handle (about the size of a nickel) it is pretty rust free. She even has a driver seat with no tears. Is that the FJ62 version of the unicorn?
I have been glued to this site for the last several days. I cannot be more impressed with the unity and friendliness that exists within this Land Cruiser community. You are all so supportive of one another. I hope to not only benefit but to (eventually) contribute as well.
. Seriously, the search feature is your very best friend followed by the FSM but I see you've taken care of the FSM part. Along with the great, knowledgeable and friendly members, the vendors on the forum can pretty much take care of your cruiser parts to keep your new girl happy. Welcome to the forum and post some pictures
<——— Official Mud Welcome
