Builds 79 Aussie BJ55 build (10 Viewers)

[brisveganbj42]

Can't wait to get these suckers welded on..

then lower mounts then into the shed with the chassis to mock up body mounts and finally see if my wheelbase is right

 

[brisveganbj42]

Braved the elements this evening..

 

[PabloCruise]

Can't wait to get these suckers welded on..

then lower mounts then into the shed with the chassis to mock up body mounts and finally see if my wheelbase is right

I certainly hope you got the wheel base correct!

 

[brisveganbj42]

I certainly hope you got the wheel base correct!

Im telling ya ive got more than just my fingers crossed... wheelbase measures 2710mm stock is 2700mm...

 

[xtiaan2000]

Why did you decide to cut where you did?
gonna be a killer rig!

 

[brisveganbj42]

Why did you decide to cut where you did?
gonna be a killer rig!

The engineer wanted it cut there and has design data for compliance with australian vehicle modification laws..

 

[brisveganbj42]

I had a day off today after working all weekend so managed to weld out the fish plates..

and started cleaning up one before I ran out of time./

 

[RUSH55]

Yeah baby!

 

[brisveganbj42]

So I've been in a little bit of a holding pattern re: the chassis up to now..

I've engaged a new local engineer as the one I was dealing with previously can no longer be reached. The new engineer is located and certified in Tasmania so that means I can keep everything on island and not have to figure out transporting a vehicle across 3 states (and 3000kms). So the new engineer visited yesterday and we went over everything that had been done. The only thing that may be an issue is the seat belts for the front row as the top pivot is further forward than acceptable. Also the steering wheel makes entry and exit a little tighter.

So today I've put all the seats and dash in and checked out various belt options, hoping we'll be able to use a drop link to satisfy engineering requirements. Also confirmed there is enough room in the back seats for an adult. and the driving position has enough clearance and is comfortable (it is). The only other option to give more clearance is to look for a smaller/flat steering wheel to regain some space..

Back seat also folds down still..

mm factory suspension seats:

The seat belt requirements are a show stopper for using the FJ55 body... other alternatives suggested are converting the FJ55 to a two door and move the B pillar back but not sure about that yet.. we'll see what comes of using the drop link.

 

[RUSH55]

I picked up some front seatbelts with upper drop links out of a late 90’s Dodge 15 person van (forget the model). The only thing I could find at the scrap yard that was close to being as long as the OEM 55 belts.

 

[tucker74]

I ordered new belts for my ‘79 front and rears from this place, all kinds of lengths and option

Wesco Performance Seat Belts and Racing Gear

www.wescoperformance.com

Tucker

 

[brisveganbj42]

Yeh i was opting for all new belts. Any idea how long the factory one is?

 

[samc2447]

Here is another option. They offer shoulder drop loops that you can mount in the location you show behind the B pillar. I've ordered from them before and they make a nice product.

Seat Belt Planet

 

[brisveganbj42]

 

[RUSH55]

Looks great! Nice work!

 

[brisveganbj42]

 

[brisveganbj42]

Looks great! Nice work!

Thanks but it's not my welding .. got a local mob to do it for me while i did my day job.. It was a cash job and done right this time.. photos sent to the engineer for review.. fingers crossed its all good, cos i dont want to have to grind it all back again, and i've already put it back in the shed to mock up body mounts.

 

[RUSH55]

 

[brisveganbj42]

Heard back from the engineer.. he's happy with the welding.. so yay!

Had another shot a trimming the body to fit on the chassis.. main area was rear inner wheel wells.. I've cut as close as I can to the floor but may need to do a little more.. I also think I need to bring the chassis forward another 10-20mm in the wheel well too..

It sits pretty high.. I've got a shot with a standard hilift for scale. current its on 34"s with a 2" lift.. no doubt it'll drop with doors, glass, engine and gearbox so i'll wait and see. also planning front/rear bars and winch so need to keep that in mind too..

I should get away with some rubber wheel flares to cover the wheels.. I also want front and rear scrub bars too so they'll help

Surprised the rear cross member tucks in so much

 

[Ol Yeller]

Coming right along!